Transitions

Our new director can speak three languages. __________, he has six years of experience.

• However

• In addition

• As a result

• Instead

Answer explanation

You use in addition when you want to mention another item connected with the subject you are discussing.

During the Precambrian era around 4600 to 544 million years ago, only the simplest life existed. There were virtually no organisms producing shells. ___________, few fossils are found in Precambrian rocks.

• Similarly

• Consequently

• However

Answer explanation

Consequently is a word that has to do with cause and effect. If you failed math, you'll consequently have to take it again.

Consequently synonyms: as a result; therefore; thus.

I like that sweater; _________, it only comes in one color.

• instead

• in addition

• however

Answer explanation

However is used to introduce a statement that contrasts with or seems to contradict something that has been said previously.

Jason wanted to play football tonight; however, his injury kept him on the bench.

The flight was delayed _________ of fog.

• besides

• as a result

• however

Answer explanation

Definition of as a result:

because of something

He sprained his wrist and, as a result, he will not be playing in the tournament.

I was going to text you, but I decided to call _________.

• instead

• similarly

• likewise

Answer explanation

Instead means:

as an alternative or substitute.

There's no coffee - would you like a cup of tea instead?

He apologized as soon as he realized what he had done. _________, he wrote a nice little note to me.

• Likewise

• Instead

• In fact

Answer explanation

You use in fact, to indicate that you are giving more detailed information about what you have just said.

A:

Did she pass her driving test?

B:

Yes, she did; in fact, she’s now taking an advanced driving test.

Muscle cells need lots of fuel and ________ burn lots of calories.

• therefore

• however

• instead

Answer explanation

You use therefore to introduce a logical result or conclusion.

We were unable to get funding and therefore had to abandon the project.

We put up a fence, and other neighbors did _________.

Answer explanation

If you do something and someone else does likewise, they do the same or a similar thing.

The house was too expensive and too big. _________, I'd grown fond of our little rented house.

• therefore

• besides

• instead

Answer explanation

Besides is used to emphasize an additional point that you are making, especially one that you consider to be important.

This plan will reduce waste, and ________ cut costs.

• likewise

• however

• thus

Answer explanation

You use thus to show that what you are about to mention is the result or consequence of something else that you have just mentioned.