linking words in essay example

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Fiona Oates

Transition Words

As a "part of speech" transition words are used to link words, phrases or sentences. They help the reader to progress from one idea (expressed by the author) to the next idea. Thus, they help to build up coherent relationships within the text.

Transitional Words

This structured list of commonly used English transition words — approximately 200, can be considered as quasi complete. It can be used (by students and teachers alike) to find the right expression. English transition words are essential, since they not only connect ideas, but also can introduce a certain shift, contrast or opposition, emphasis or agreement, purpose, result or conclusion, etc. in the line of argument. The transition words and phrases have been assigned only once to somewhat artificial categories, although some words belong to more than one category.

There is some overlapping with prepositions and postpositions, but for the purpose of usage and completeness of this concise guide, I did not differentiate.

Linking & Connecting Words — Part 1/2

Agreement / Addition / Similarity

Opposition / limitation / contradiction, examples / support / emphasis, cause / condition / purpose, effect / consequence / result, conclusion / summary / restatement, time / chronology / sequence, space / location / place.

The transition words like also, in addition, and, likewise , add information , reinforce ideas , and express agreement with preceding material.

in the first place

not only ... but also

as a matter of fact

in like manner

in addition

coupled with

in the same fashion / way

first, second, third

in the light of

not to mention

to say nothing of

equally important

by the same token

identically

together with

comparatively

correspondingly

furthermore

additionally

Transition phrases like but , rather and or , express that there is evidence to the contrary or point out alternatives , and thus introduce a change the line of reasoning ( contrast ).

although this may be true

in contrast

different from

of course ..., but

on the other hand

on the contrary

at the same time

in spite of

even so / though

be that as it may

(and) still

even though

nevertheless

nonetheless

notwithstanding

These transitional phrases present specific conditions or intentions .

in the event that

granted (that)

as / so long as

on (the) condition (that)

for the purpose of

with this intention

with this in mind

in the hope that

to the end that

for fear that

in order to

seeing / being that

provided that

only / even if

inasmuch as

These transitional devices (like especially ) are used to introduce examples as support , to indicate importance or as an illustration so that an idea is cued to the reader.

in other words

to put it differently

for one thing

as an illustration

in this case

for this reason

to put it another way

that is to say

with attention to

by all means

important to realize

another key point

first thing to remember

most compelling evidence

must be remembered

point often overlooked

to point out

on the positive side

on the negative side

specifically

surprisingly

significantly

particularly

in particular

for example

for instance

to demonstrate

to emphasize

to enumerate

Some of these transition words ( thus, then, accordingly, consequently, therefore, henceforth ) are time words that are used to show that after a particular time there was a consequence or an effect .

Note that for and because are placed before the cause/reason. The other devices are placed before the consequences or effects.

as a result

under those circumstances

in that case

because the

consequently

accordingly

These transition words and phrases conclude , summarize and / or restate ideas, or indicate a final general statement . Also some words (like therefore ) from the Effect / Consequence category can be used to summarize.

as can be seen

generally speaking

in the final analysis

all things considered

as shown above

in the long run

given these points

as has been noted

for the most part

in conclusion

to summarize

by and large

on the whole

in any event

in either case

These transitional words (like finally ) have the function of limiting, restricting, and defining time . They can be used either alone or as part of adverbial expressions .

at the present time

from time to time

sooner or later

up to the present time

to begin with

in due time

in the meantime

in a moment

without delay

all of a sudden

at this instant

first, second

immediately

straightaway

by the time

occasionally

Many transition words in the time category ( consequently; first, second, third; further; hence; henceforth; since; then, when; and whenever ) have other uses.

Except for the numbers ( first, second, third ) and further they add a meaning of time in expressing conditions, qualifications, or reasons. The numbers are also used to add information or list examples . Further is also used to indicate added space as well as added time.

These transition words are often used as part of adverbial expressions and have the function to restrict, limit or qualify space . Quite a few of these are also found in the Time category and can be used to describe spatial order or spatial reference.

in the middle

to the left/right

in front of

on this side

in the distance

here and there

in the foreground

in the background

in the center of

adjacent to

opposite to 

List of Transition Words

Transition Words are also sometimes called (or put in the category of) Connecting Words. Please feel free to download them via this link to the category page: Linking Words & Connecting Words as a PDF. It contains all the transition words listed on this site. The image to the left gives you an impression how it looks like.

Usage of Transition Words in Essays

Transition words and phrases are vital devices for essays , papers or other literary compositions. They improve the connections and transitions between sentences and paragraphs. They thus give the text a logical organization and structure (see also: a List of Synonyms ).

All English transition words and phrases (sometimes also called 'conjunctive adverbs') do the same work as coordinating conjunctions : they connect two words, phrases or clauses together and thus the text is easier to read and the coherence is improved.

Usage: transition words are used with a special rule for punctuation : a semicolon or a period is used after the first 'sentence', and a comma is almost always used to set off the transition word from the second 'sentence'.

Example 1: People use 43 muscles when they frown; however, they use only 28 muscles when they smile.

Example 2: however, transition words can also be placed at the beginning of a new paragraph or sentence - not only to indicate a step forward in the reasoning, but also to relate the new material to the preceding thoughts..

Use a semicolon to connect sentences, only if the group of words on either side of the semicolon is a complete sentence each (both must have a subject and a verb, and could thus stand alone as a complete thought).

Further helpful readings about expressions, writing and grammar: Compilation of Writing Tips How to write good   ¦   Correct Spelling Study by an English University

Are you using WORD for writing professional texts and essays? There are many easy Windows Shortcuts available which work (almost) system-wide (e.g. in every programm you use).

List Of 100 Useful Linking Words With Examples

Linking words, also known as transition words or connectors, are essential for creating coherence and cohesion in your writing. They help to establish a smooth flow of ideas and provide a clear structure, making your text more readable and engaging.

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In this resource, we list 100 useful linking words, along with examples of how to use them effectively in your writing. Whether you’re working on an essay, a blog post, or a business report, these linking words will help you to communicate your ideas clearly and create a well-organized piece of writing.

Additionally – “We need to hire more employees, and additionally, we should consider offering more benefits to retain our current ones.” Afterward – “We had breakfast at the hotel, afterward, we visited the museum.” Alongside – “in addition to, or in conjunction with” Alternatively – “indicating a choice between two or more possibilities” Although – “Although it was raining heavily, they still decided to go for a walk.” Altogether – “Altogether, we had a great time at the concert.” As a result – “The store closed early due to the snowstorm, and as a result, there was a decrease in sales that day.” As a whole – “The company’s employees work together as a team and support each other, as a whole, they achieve great results.” Assuming that – “Assuming that the weather is good, we can go for a picnic tomorrow.” Briefly – “Briefly, let me explain the process.” By and large – “By and large, the project was successful due to the hard work of the team.” By comparison – “The new model is faster and more efficient, by comparison, the old model is slower and less efficient.” Comparatively – “in a way that involves comparison or relating to something else” Consequently – “The restaurant had a bad review in the newspaper, and consequently, their business decreased significantly.” Contrarily – “Many people enjoy hot weather, contrarily, some people prefer colder temperatures.” Conversely – “While some people prefer to work in a fast-paced environment, conversely, others thrive in a more relaxed setting.” Correspondingly – “The company has invested more in research and development, correspondingly, their innovation has increased.” Despite – “Despite the challenges they faced, the team was able to deliver the project on time.” Despite this – “despite the fact that this is true” Due to – “Due to the pandemic, many businesses have suffered losses.” Earlier – “before the present time or before a specified time” Equally – “All employees are expected to follow the company’s code of conduct, equally, there are consequences for those who do not.” Equally important – “of equal importance or significance” Equivalently – “in a way that is equivalent or equal to something else” Ergo – “therefore, as a result” Essentially – “Essentially, the problem is that we are not communicating effectively.” Even so – “The weather was bad, even so, we went out for a walk.” Even though – “Even though it was late, we still went to the party.” Finally – “We have discussed all the aspects of the project, finally, let’s decide on the budget.” First and foremost – “First and foremost, we need to ensure the safety of our employees.” For example – “Many countries have national holidays, for example, Independence Day, Christmas, or New Year’s Day.” For instance – “There are many ways to exercise, for instance, running, swimming, or cycling.” For this reason – “The company’s sales have increased, for this reason, they have expanded their operations.” Furthermore – “The research shows that regular exercise can help reduce stress levels, and furthermore, it can improve overall mental health.” Hence – “The equipment malfunctioned, hence, we need to order a replacement.” However – “The plan looks great; however, we need to take into account the budget limitations before we implement it.” In a nutshell – “In a nutshell, the report suggests that we need to increase our marketing efforts.” In addition – “The hotel offers a complimentary breakfast, and in addition, guests have access to the pool and fitness center.” In comparison – “In comparison to last year’s profits, the company has made significant progress.” In conclusion – “In conclusion, we need to work on improving our customer service to retain our current customers and attract new ones.” In consequence – “In consequence of the bad weather, the game was cancelled.” In contrast – “The company’s profits have increased this year; in contrast, they experienced a loss last year.” In effect – “The new policy has come into effect, in effect, it will change how things work.” In general – “In general, people prefer to have a stable job with a good salary and benefits.” In other words – “The company’s profits have increased by 20%, in other words, they are doing better than last year.” In particular – “In particular, the software is designed to enhance the user experience.” In short – “In short, we need to work harder to achieve our goals.” In spite of – “In spite of the challenges, the team was able to complete the project on time.” In summary – “In summary, the company’s financial performance has improved over the last year.” In the first place – “In the first place, we need to establish clear objectives for the project.” In the meantime – “during the intervening period of time, meanwhile” In turn – “as a result or consequence of something else” Including – “The price of the meal includes the main course, dessert, and a beverage.” Invariably – “always, without exception” Last but not least – “We have talked about the marketing and sales strategy, last but not least, let’s discuss the distribution channels.” Likewise – “Just as we have strict rules for our employees, likewise, we expect our vendors to adhere to our ethical standards.” Meanwhile – “The team is working on the project; meanwhile, the manager is attending a meeting.” Moreover – “The car has great fuel efficiency, and moreover, it has a spacious interior and advanced safety features.” Namely – “There are four seasons in a year, namely, spring, summer, fall, and winter.” Nevertheless – “The team encountered many difficulties during the project, nevertheless, they were able to complete it on time and within budget.” Next – “Next, we need to review the feedback from our customers and make necessary changes.” Nonetheless – “The weather is very cold, nonetheless, we decided to go for a walk in the park.” Notably – “Notably, the company’s CEO has won several awards for her leadership skills.” On balance – “On balance, the advantages of the new technology outweigh the disadvantages.” On condition that – “You can have the job on condition that you have a degree in the relevant field.” On the contrary – “The company’s profits have increased, on the contrary, their expenses have decreased.” On the other hand – “Some people prefer to live in the city, while on the other hand, others prefer to live in the countryside.” On top of that – “in addition to something else” Or else – “You have to study for the exam, or else you might fail.” Otherwise – “You need to arrive on time; otherwise, we will start without you.” Overall – “Overall, the restaurant had great food, but the service was slow.” Presently – “at the present time, currently” Provided that – “You can borrow my car provided that you return it by tomorrow.” Put differently – “The movie was not successful at the box office, put differently, it did not make a lot of money.” Regardless – “without taking into account or being influenced by something else” Secondly – “Firstly, we need to develop the product; secondly, we need to launch it in the market.” Significantly – “in a way that is important or meaningful” Similarly – “Studying for long hours can be counterproductive, and similarly, working without breaks can decrease productivity.” Specifically – “The company’s policies regarding equal pay for all employees are specifically outlined in the employee handbook.” Specifically speaking – “in a way that is precise or exact, with emphasis on specific details” Still – “The company’s profits have increased, still, they need to work on reducing their expenses.” Subsequently – “The company experienced a decline in sales, subsequently, they had to cut costs.” Such as – “Many fruits are high in vitamin C, such as oranges, lemons, and kiwis.” That is – “The deadline is next week, that is, we have to finish the project by Friday.” Then – “We need to hire more employees, then, we need to train them adequately.” Therefore – “The company’s profits have increased, therefore, they have decided to invest in new projects.” Though – “The company has faced several challenges this year, though, they have been able to overcome them.” Thus – “The company implemented a new marketing strategy, thus, their sales increased by 20%.” To begin with – “To begin with, let’s review the previous month’s sales report.” To conclude – “To conclude, the project was completed on time and within budget.” To sum up – “To sum up, we need to focus on our strengths to succeed.” To summarize – “To summarize, we need to focus on cost-cutting and increasing revenue to improve our profits.” Unless – “Unless you finish your homework, you cannot watch TV.” Unlike – “different from, dissimilar to” Whereas – “The company’s sales are increasing in Europe, whereas, they are decreasing in Asia.” While – “While some people enjoy working in a team, others prefer to work independently.” Yet – “The company has not met their sales target yet, they are still working on it.”

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Linking Words and Phrases – List & Examples

Are you an English learner looking to improve your language skills? Or maybe you’re an IELTS student aiming for a top band score?

In this detailed guide, we delve into the world of linking words and show you how they can improve your language skills and IELTS performance.

Linking words and phrases are the glue that holds a piece of writing together. They make your sentences flow seamlessly and guide the reader through your ideas. So it is very important that you use them in your essays and reports.

Linking Words and Phrases List

Linking Words for Addition and Reason

Linking Words for Illustration and Contrast

Linking Words for Comparison and Order

Linking Words for Summary and Condition

Linking Words for Concession and Generalisation

Linking Words for Restatement and Reference

Linking Words for Clarification & Space/ Location

Linking Words and Phrases List and Examples

Linking Words IELTS & Essays PDF

  Linking Words PDF – download

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Linking Words: List of Sentence Connectors in English with Examples!

Struggling to connect ideas? ‘Connectors in English’ have your back. Connect, express, and impress – all with Connectors in English!

Connectors Definition

6. ON THE OTHER HAND

11. ALL THE SAME

👉 SIMILARITY

Read more: Difference between COMPARED TO and COMPARED WITH

👉 SEQUENCING

2. TO BEGIN WITH

👉 ORDER OF IMPORTANCE

1. MOST IMPORTANTLY

👉 PARTICULARIZATION

👉 examplification, 👉 explanation, 👉 emphasising, 👉 focusing and linking, 👉 conclusion, 👉 correction.

3. AFTERWARDS

👉 DISMISSAL

(of what was said before)

Linking Words Quiz › TEST YOURSELF

👉  connectors synonyms, 👉  sentence definition.

Through sentences we tell other people what we think, feel, or what we want to do . In order to relate those thoughts we string together words into groups. These finally relate our message to other people and the world.

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Linking Words in English with Examples

Linking words, also known as transition words or connectors , are defined as words or phrases that connect clauses, sentences, paragraphs, and ideas together, and convey the intended meaning more clearly and effectively. These words not only make the text readable but also help the readers to understand the writer’s perspective. We can use these words to express ideas, contrast, comparison, order, cause and effect, time, and many other functions. Linking words is an essential part of writing to “link” all your ideas in a way that helps create a smooth flow and connections between different parts of a text. In this article, we will take a comprehensive look at what linking words are, their functions with examples, and how to use them effectively. So, let’s get started!

Table of Contents

What are linking words?

Linking words are words or phrases that we use to link or connect different parts of a text. They help make the writing smoother and show how different ideas are related to each other. Linking words make it easier for readers to understand the flow of information and how one idea leads to another. Linking words can be used to indicate contrast, similarity, cause and effect, time, addition, conclusion, and more. Examples of linking words include “and,” “but,” “because,” “however,” “also,” “for example,” “therefore,” and so on. For instance,

She wanted to go shopping; however , it started raining.

Here connecting word “However” indicates a contrast between her desire to go shopping and the unexpected rain, helping the reader understand the change in the situation.

Why use linking words?

Linking words are essential for effective writing because they:

• Improve flow and coherence
• Help establish relationships between ideas
• Make writing smoother to read
• Create clear transitions between paragraphs
• Enhance reader comprehension and understanding
• Linking words can help to emphasize and clarify important points

How to use Linking Words

Here are some basic rules for the placement and usage of linking words:

• Before using linking words, make sure you understand what they mean and how they are used. For example,

Some words are used to add new ideas such as, ( “furthermore” or “moreover” ) while others are used to show contrast or contradiction, ( “however” or “nevertheless” ) etc.

• Choose the appropriate linking word based on the context, for example,

(“Additionally” for adding, “For example” for illustrating)

• Place linking words at the beginning or middle of sentences for smooth transitions.
• Use a comma after starting a sentence with a linking word, for example,

However , I decided to give it a try.

Add commas around the linking word if placed in the middle, for example,

In this case , however , the outcome was unexpected.

• Coordinating Conjunctions (and, but, or, nor, for, so, yet) connect equal parts ( independent clauses ), use a comma before them. for example,

I like apples , but he prefers oranges.

• Subordinating Conjunctions (although, because, since, while, when) introduce dependent clauses , use commas when dependent clause precedes the main clause. for example,

Although it was raining , we went for a walk. (Comma before main clause)

No comma if subordinate clause follows main clause. for example,

We went for a walk although it was raining. (No comma)

• Maintain parallel structure (similar grammar) when using multiple linking words in a list. for example,

She likes reading, to cook, and watching movies. ❎

She likes reading, cooking, and watching movies. ✅

Functions of linking words

Different linking words serve different purposes/functions:

Linking words like “and,” “also,” “besides,” “furthermore,” and “moreover” are used to introduce additional information or ideas that are related to the previous point. Common linking words for addition include: and, also, as well as, additionally, furthermore, moreover, in addition, besides, not only…but also, etc.

Example: I love both chocolate and vanilla ice cream.

Contrasting Ideas

Words such as “but,” “however,” “although,” and “on the other hand” help introduce a contrasting idea or point that is different from what was previously mentioned. Examples of contrastive linking words are:  but, however, on the other hand, yet, and, although, nevertheless, in contrast, whereas, although, and even though, etc.

Example: He wanted to go out. However, it started raining heavily.

Cause and Effect

Linking words indicate the relationships between cause and effect. They help explain why something happened or the consequences of an action. Common cause-and-effect linking words are; because, so, therefore, due to, resulting in, consequently, therefore, thus, hence, etc.

Example: He missed the bus; consequently, he arrived late.

These words help you show similarities or likenesses between ideas. They allow you to compare and contrast different concepts. Examples include; like, similarly, in the same way, and compared to, likewise, just as, just like, in contrast, on the contrary, unlike, etc.

Example: The first book was good, but the second one was even better.

Time Sequence

Linking words help arrange ideas chronologically or in a specific order. They guide readers through a sequence of events or steps. Common time sequences linking words are; first, next, then, finally, meanwhile, after, before, afterward, subsequently, eventually, etc.

Example: First, we went shopping. Then, we had lunch at a cafe.

Example/Illustration

Linking words are used to provide examples that clarify or support the main point. They make your ideas more concrete and relatable. Examples of these words include “for example,” “such as,” “specifically,” and “in particular” etc.

Example: There are many outdoor activities you can try, such as hiking, biking, and camping.

Conclusion/Summary

Linking words are used to provide examples that clarify or support the main point. They make your ideas more concrete and relatable. Examples of these words include “for example,” “such as,” “specifically,” and “in particular.” etc.

Example: To sum up, regular exercise has numerous health benefits.

These words can be used to emphasize a point or to highlight its significance. They guide readers to pay attention to specific information. Examples are “especially,” “notably,” “indeed,” and “importantly.”

Example: The view from the top of the mountain was truly breathtaking.

Clarification

These words aid in clarifying or restating an idea to ensure readers understand it correctly. They help avoid confusion. Examples include “in other words,” “that is,” “to put it differently,” and “namely.”

Example: “The concept is a bit complex. In other words , it might take some time to fully understand.”

Expressing Purpose

Linking words like “in order to,” “so that,” and “for the purpose of” indicate the purpose or intention behind a certain action or statement.

Example: He worked overtime for extra money.

Sequence/Order

Words like “firstly,” “next,” “then,” “finally,” and “in conclusion” help to organize and sequence ideas in a logical order.

Example: First, we went to the park. Then, we had a picnic.

Linking words like “if,” “unless,” “provided that,” and “in case” introduce conditions or circumstances under which something else will happen. They show that one thing depends on another.

Example: If it rains, we will stay indoors.

List of Linking Words & Connecting Words

• Additionally
• Apart from this
• As well as that
• Coupled with
• Furthermore
• In addition
• In addition to this
• In the same fashion
• Not only…but also
• Not to mention
• Together with
• What’s more

• Alternatively
• By contrast
• In spite of
• As opposed to
• Contrary to
• Differing from
• In contrast to
• In opposition
• Nevertheless
• Nonetheless
• Notwithstanding
• On the other hand

Showing Cause and Effect

• As a result
• Consequently
• For this reason
• On account of
• Resulting from
• Under the circumstances
• In consequence of
• As a consequence
• The outcome is that
• The effect of this
• This has led to
• Such is the case
• Accordingly

• In comparison
• In the same way
• Correspondingly
• Compared to/with
• In a similar fashion
• On the contrary
• At the same time

Time sequence

• First of all
• In the beginning
• To start with
• Subsequently
• Following that
• Simultaneously
• Concurrently
• In the meantime

• For example
• For instance
• To illustrate
• In particular
• Specifically
• As an illustration
• To demonstrate
• As shown by
• In the case of
• One example is
• As evidence
• In other words
• As a case in point
• To put it differently
• As revealed by
• A good example of this is
• In a similar manner
• This can be seen when
• As a specific instance
• To exemplify
• As a sample
• In one instance
• Let’s consider
• As an example of

• All things considered
• As demonstrated above
• As shown above
• As you can see
• By and large
• Given these points
• In any event
• In conclusion
• Generally speaking
• In the final analysis
• On the whole
• To conclude
• To summarize

• Clearly, then
• Importantly
• Most importantly
• Significantly
• Undoubtedly
• Without a doubt
• Unquestionably
• It’s worth noting
• It should be emphasized that
• It’s important to highlight
• A key point to remember
• To highlight
• It’s important to note
• To draw attention to
• It cannot be overstated

• In explanation
• To be clear
• Let me explain
• To put it clearly
• Simply stated
• That is to say
• To break it down
• More precisely
• To clearly define
• Allow me to clarify
• To put it in another way
• To simplify

Expressing Purpose, Reason

• For the purpose of
• Granted that
• With this purpose
• Provided that
• Seeing that
• With this in mind
• In order to
• With this intention
• With the aim of

• First/ firstly
• Second/ secondly
• Third/ thirdly

• Although this may be true
• In that case
• On the condition that

• Option 1 or Option 2
• Either… or…
• Whether… or…
• Preferably… or…
• In either case…
• While… In comparison…
• Select between… or…
• Choose either… or…

Restatement

• Expressed simply
• In a nutshell
• Otherwise stated
• Put in another way
• In simple terms
• What I mean by this is
• To rephrase

Generalize information

• In most cases
• In the majority of instances
• For the most part
• In a general sense
• Without exception
• Universally
• Across the board
• Without distinction
• In a broader context
• Without specific regard to
• In a global perspective
• Without pinpointing

Q1. What are linking words?

Linking words, also known as transition words or connectors , are words or phrases that create a connection between ideas, sentences, or paragraphs in a text.

Q2. What is the importance of using linking words?

Connecting words help to create cohesion and coherence in writing, making it easier for readers to understand the relationships between different ideas.

Q3. Why are linking words important in writing?

Linking words help writers to make their writing coherent and logical. They allow the writer to smoothly transition from one idea to the next, which helps keep the reader engaged and ensures that the writing flows logically.

Q4. Can I use the same linking word more than once in a paragraph?

While it’s generally better to use a variety of linking words to create a sense of flow and variety, there may be instances where using the same linking word multiple times in a paragraph is appropriate.

Q5. What are some commonly used linking words?

Some commonly used linking words include and, but, or, because, since, therefore, however, furthermore, in addition, and despite.

Q6. What is the difference between conjunctions and linking words?

Conjunctions are a type of linking word that connects two clauses within a sentence. Linking words, on the other hand, connect different sentences or paragraphs within a text.

Linking Words List PDF

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The Ultimate List of Linking Words for Your Essay

Let’s face it: You can’t write an essay (or any other writing piece) without linking words.

Also known as connecting words or transition words, they serve to make your writing flow and help those reading your work follow the flow of your thoughts, ideas , and  arguments .

This post is your guide to linking words and their role in writing. Not only will you learn the types of these words, examples, and reasons to use them, but you’ll also get a massive list of transition words and phrases as well as linking words PDF to download and use whenever necessary.

Table of Contents:

What are Linking Words?

Why use transition words in essays, linking words examples, addition/agreement/similarity, contrast/contradiction/limitation/opposition, comparison/concession/condition, clarification, cause/effect/result, emphasis/example, generalization, illustration, location/place/space, reason/reference, time/sequence, summary/conclusion/restatement.

• The Ultimate List of Linking Words: Download

Linking words are lexical items (words and phrases) we use to connect ideas in writing and get a reader to the next sentence or paragraph.

They aren’t about essay writing only:

Whether you write a fiction book,  marketing content , academic works,  autobiography , or poems, you’ll need to connect ideas. That’s what transition words do:

They link your thoughts and arguments into a chain to show how they relate to each other. Also known as transition words, these phrases often start a sentence or a paragraph. However, you’ll also use them in the middle of sentences to bring ideas together.

The most common places for linking words in essays are:

• the start of a paragraph
• the start of a sentence introducing a new idea or extending an argument 
• the beginning of a concluding statement

Essay linking words is an integral part of academic writing. Put it simply, you can’t write a paper without using them; otherwise, your writing won’t make any sense for readers.

Transition words for essay serve to:

• connect ideas in writing
• create a flow of thoughts and arguments for readers to understand what you want to say
• guide readers from one idea to another, demonstrating how they relate to each other
• hook readers  and encourage them to read the next sentence or paragraph
• add more information
• support or contrast a point
• show the result, conclude, demonstrate an effect of this or that point

Using essay maker and connecting words, each sentence and paragraph must pass readers on to the next one. These connecting words serve as an instrument to guide readers from one thought or point to the next.

Linking words examples are many, and it’s clear why: every piece of writing contains tons of connecting and transition words. Let’s take an essay sample from  Bid4Papers writers  to see the example of linking words in academic writing:

This one was an  essay introduction . 

Now, why not take a step further and look for essay linking words in  essay conclusions ?

Types and List of Linking Words to Use in Essays

Below you’ll find the ultimate list of transition words for essays by categories. Choose the role you need a word to play (reason, contrast, emphasis, restatement, etc.) and consider the corresponding table of transitions.

If you need the whole transition words list in one place, jump to the next category of this post to find the downloadable linking words pdf.

And now, for connecting words categories:

These words serve to add info to what you’ve previously stated, demonstrate the commonality between arguments, and support your thoughts.

Linking words for contrast is your instrument to show how things are different and provide counterarguments. They work best in  persuasive  and  critical  essays.

These lexical items will help you if you need to provide conditions to your statements, show how things are different/similar, or accept a point with reservation.

These words will help you with  personal  or  narrative essays: They are linking words in opinion writing that indicates you’re going to explore ideas in more detail.

Expository essays will win with these words too.

Cause and effect connecting words do what their name says exactly: demonstrating a cause of some point and providing the result of what has been done or started.

These words are for putting forward your point more forcefully, providing examples.

Perfect transition words for hypothesis essays , generalization lexical items serve to make a general statement you’ll then specify and prove in detail.

These words and phrases are for you to provide examples in essays.

Use these words to provide order and reference or clarify spatial relationships between your points or ideas.

These transitional words will help you demonstrate relationships between ideas and provide reasons for what and why has started or occurred.

Use these words in your essay when you need to indicate the time and order of what you say.

Restatement words will help you express an alternative to what you previously stated. They work for all essay types, including  rhetorical precis  and  dialectic essays .

Use summary and conclusion transitional phrases to sum up your points and come up with the final paragraph of your writing.

The Ultimate List of Connecting Words: Download

And now, for the most interesting and practical part:

Below you can find the linking words worksheet that gathers all the most commonly used transitional words in essays. Feel free to download this linking words PDF and refer to it every time you write an essay and experience writer’s block:

Do you need more guides and worksheets like this to assist you with academic writing? Please share your ideas in the comments, and our writers will be happy to help!

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