Linking Words – Definitions & Examples

however

• Introduces a contradiction.

• Indicates agreement.

• Shows a sequence of events.

• Expresses a cause and effect relationship.

furthermore

• Emphasizes continuation; in addition; more importantly.

• Indicates a contrast or opposition.

• Introduces an example or illustration.

• Summarizes the previous statement.

moreover

• Reinforces a previous idea.

• Introduces a contrasting idea.

• Summarizes the main point.

• Provides an example.

due to

• Indicates a reason, as in 'The flight was delayed due to bad weather.'

• Indicates a location, as in 'The book is on the table.'

• Indicates a time, as in 'The meeting is at 3 PM.'

• Indicates a condition, as in 'You can go if you finish your homework.'

besides

• Adds extra information.

• Indicates a contrast.

• Introduces a conclusion.

• Expresses a condition.

although

• Despite the fact that

• In spite of the fact that

• Even though

• Regardless of the fact that

therefore

• Introduces a result. Examples: He was late. Therefore, we started without him.

• Indicates a contrast. Examples: He was late. However, we started without him.

• Expresses a condition. Examples: If he is late, we will start without him.

• Describes a reason. Examples: He was late because of traffic.

since

• Gives a reason or cause.

• Indicates a time period.

• Expresses a condition.

• Shows a contrast.

whereas

• Compares two different situations.

• Indicates a cause and effect relationship.

• Shows a similarity between two ideas.

• Describes a sequence of events.

even though

• Stronger form of 'although'.

• Weaker form of 'although'.

• Synonym for 'despite'.

• Phrase used to indicate certainty.