Linking Words in English: List, Examples and Rules

Linking words, also called transition words, join clauses, sentences, and paragraphs in English. In the linking words examples however and because, each word precedes a new clause: however introduces contrast, and because introduces a reason.

A linking word that opens a sentence takes a comma, while because takes none between clauses. A linking word expresses the same contrast or reason in both positions, and only the comma is added or dropped. Each linking word is classified into a type by its function, contrast for however and reason for because.

What Are Linking Words?

Linking words examples with however, moreover, therefore, because, and although, each joining two clauses in English — Linking words examples for addition, contrast, and cause

Linking words are individual words or multiword expressions that connect ideas and show the logical relationship between them. They can join words, phrases, clauses, sentences, or larger parts of a text. The labels transition words, connecting words, and connectors overlap with this meaning, although grammar books may classify individual items more precisely.

Linking words are not the same as linking verbs. A linking verb, such as be or seem, connects a subject to a description. A linking word connects ideas: “The train was delayed; therefore, we arrived late.”

Lists of Linking Words With Examples

Linking Words For Addition

Addition is the relation between a fact already stated and a further fact. Coordinating conjunctions such as “and” are used to join equal words or clauses, and conjunctive adverbs such as “moreover” stand at the start of a new sentence. Phrases such as “in addition to” differ from both, because a noun phrase follows them.

Linking word	Example sentence	Usage note
And	She writes poems and edits the school magazine.	Joins equal words or clauses.
Also	The hotel is quiet. It is also close to the station.	Sits before the main verb or after “be”.
Too	The food was excellent, and the service was good too.	Closes the clause; informal.
As well as	He speaks Urdu as well as English.	A noun or an -ing form follows.
Along with	She submitted the form along with her passport.	The verb agrees with the main subject.
Together with	The manager, together with two assistants, runs the office.	Formal; the verb agrees with the main subject.
In addition	In addition, the course includes a workshop.	Formal; opens a sentence and takes a comma.
In addition to	In addition to the fee, applicants pay a deposit.	A noun phrase or an -ing form follows.
Additionally	Additionally, the report lists three risks.	Formal sentence opener.
Moreover	The plan is cheap; moreover, it is fast.	Formal; adds a point that strengthens the argument.
Furthermore	Furthermore, the data covers ten years.	Formal; adds a further point in a sequence.
Besides	Besides, the tickets are too expensive.	Adds a final reason; as a preposition it means “apart from”.
What is more	What is more, the staff speak four languages.	Emphatic; adds a stronger point.
Not only … but also	Not only is the app free, but it also works offline.	Inversion follows “not only” at the start of a sentence.
Plus	The room is quiet, plus it has a balcony.	Informal.
On top of that	On top of that, the delivery was free.	Informal.
Not to mention	The trip was long, not to mention tiring.	Informal; adds a point the speaker treats as obvious.
Another	Another benefit is lower cost.	Introduces one more item of the same kind.

Linking Words For Contrast

Contrast is the relation between two opposing ideas, and it is expressed at three levels. “But” and “yet” are used to join clauses, “although” is placed at the start of a dependent clause, and “however” at the start of a new sentence. The punctuation and the formality differ at each level.

Linking word	Example sentence	Usage note
But	The schedule was tight, but the team delivered on time.	Conjunction; joins clauses after a comma.
Yet	The design is plain, yet effective.	Conjunction; stronger than “but”.
However	The schedule was tight. However, the team delivered on time.	Sentence transition; follows a full stop or semicolon.
Nevertheless	The route was long; nevertheless, we arrived early.	Formal; marks a result despite the earlier fact.
Nonetheless	The risk was high. Nonetheless, they went ahead.	Formal; close in meaning to “nevertheless”.
Still	It rained all day. Still, we enjoyed the trip.	Neutral sentence transition.
Even so	The prices rose. Even so, sales held steady.	Neutral; concedes the earlier point.
All the same	He was tired. All the same, he finished the report.	Informal to neutral.
Although	Although it was late, she kept working.	Subordinating conjunction; a full clause follows.
Even though	Even though the road was closed, we found a way.	Stronger than “although”.
Though	Though the flat is small, it is bright.	Informal at the end of a clause: “It is small, though.”
While	While the first plan failed, the second succeeded.	Contrasts two clauses; also a time word.
Whereas	The north is dry, whereas the south is humid.	Formal; sets two facts side by side.
Despite	Despite the delay, the show started.	A noun or an -ing form follows.
In spite of	In spite of the cost, many students enrolled.	Same grammar as “despite”.
Notwithstanding	Notwithstanding the objections, the vote went ahead.	Formal; legal and academic writing.
On the other hand	Online courses are flexible. On the other hand, classes offer more interaction.	Presents the opposing side of a comparison.
In contrast	In contrast, the second study found no effect.	Formal; opens a sentence.
By contrast	The first model is heavy. By contrast, the second is light.	Formal; sets two items against each other.
Conversely	Higher prices reduce demand. Conversely, lower prices raise it.	Formal; states the reverse relation.
Instead	The bus was full, so we walked instead.	Names the replacement for what did not happen.
Unlike	Unlike his brother, he prefers the city.	Preposition; a noun phrase follows.
Rather than	Rather than wait, we left.	An infinitive or an -ing form follows.

Linking Words For Cause And Effect

Cause and effect are one relation expressed in two directions. “Because”, “since”, and “due to” are used for the cause, and “so”, “therefore”, and “as a result” for the effect. A conjunction takes a full clause, but “because of” and “due to” take a noun phrase.

Linking word	Example sentence	Usage note
Because	The match was cancelled because the pitch was flooded.	Subordinating conjunction; a full clause follows.
Since	Since the shop was closed, we ate at home.	Gives a reason the reader already knows.
As	As the road was blocked, we took a detour.	Gives a known reason; opens the sentence.
For	He stayed indoors, for the storm was severe.	Formal conjunction; follows a comma.
Because of	The flight was delayed because of fog.	A noun phrase follows.
Due to	The delay was due to engine trouble.	Formal; a noun phrase follows.
Owing to	Owing to heavy rain, the match was postponed.	Formal; a noun phrase follows.
On account of	The office closed early on account of the strike.	Formal; a noun phrase follows.
Thanks to	Thanks to her advice, he passed the exam.	Marks a favourable cause.
Given that	Given that the budget is fixed, we must cut costs.	Formal; the cause is a stated fact.
Seeing that	Seeing that it is late, we should leave.	Neutral; the cause is obvious to both sides.
So	The data was incomplete, so we postponed the launch.	Conjunction; states the result after a comma.
Therefore	The data was incomplete; therefore, we postponed the launch.	Formal; follows a semicolon or opens a sentence.
Consequently	The factory closed. Consequently, hundreds lost their jobs.	Formal; states a result.
As a result	As a result, prices fell.	Neutral; opens a sentence.
As a consequence	As a consequence, the contract was cancelled.	Formal.
Thus	The sample was small; thus, the findings are limited.	Formal; academic writing.
Hence	The demand is rising; hence the new branch.	Formal; a noun phrase or clause follows.
Accordingly	The rules changed; accordingly, we updated the form.	Formal; states an action taken in response.
That is why	The road was icy. That is why the bus was late.	Neutral; states the result.
For this reason	For this reason, the committee rejected the bid.	Formal; refers back to a stated cause.

Linking Words of Cause and Effect in English

Linking Words For Comparison

Comparison is the relation of likeness or of difference in degree between two items. Likeness is expressed inside the clause with “as … as”, “like”, and “just as”, and between sentences with “similarly” and “likewise”. A difference in degree takes a comparative form followed by “than”.

Linking word	Example sentence	Usage note
Similarly	Similarly, the second city has strict parking laws.	Formal; marks a likeness between two ideas.
Likewise	She volunteers every week, and he does likewise.	Formal; means “in the same way”.
In the same way	In the same way, the new policy affects small firms.	Neutral; opens a sentence.
Equally	Equally, the second option carries risk.	Formal; gives a point of equal weight.
Correspondingly	Wages rose; correspondingly, spending increased.	Formal; marks a matching change.
Just as	Just as the printer failed, so did the scanner.	Pairs with “so” in the second clause.
Like	He runs like a professional.	Preposition; a noun phrase follows.
Just like	Just like her mother, she teaches maths.	Informal to neutral.
As … as	The new phone is as fast as the old one.	Marks equal degree.
Than	Her essay is longer than his.	Follows a comparative form.
Both … and	Both the manager and the assistant approved it.	Joins two equal items.
In comparison	In comparison, the second model is faster.	Neutral; opens a sentence.
By comparison	By comparison, rents in the north are low.	Formal.
Compared to	Compared to last year, sales rose.	A noun phrase follows.
Compared with	Compared with the capital, the town is quiet.	Same grammar as “compared to”.

Linking Words For Time

A time relation is the order of two events, with one before, after, or alongside the other. “When”, “while”, and “until” are followed by a full clause, whereas “meanwhile” and “afterward” stand at the start of a sentence. The tenses of the two clauses depend on that order, as with the past perfect after “by the time”.

Linking word	Example sentence	Usage note
When	She smiled when the results arrived.	Marks a point in time.
Whenever	Whenever it rains, the road floods.	Marks every occasion.
While	She cooked while he set the table.	Marks two actions at the same time.
As	He smiled as she entered the room.	Marks simultaneous actions.
As soon as	Call me as soon as you land.	Marks the first moment after an event.
Once	Once the form is signed, the process begins.	Marks completion of one action before another.
Before	Lock the door before you leave.	Marks the earlier action.
After	We ate after the meeting ended.	Marks the later action.
Until	Wait here until the bell rings.	Marks the end point of a period.
Since	I have lived here since 2019.	Marks a starting point; the main clause takes a perfect tense.
By the time	By the time we arrived, the show had started.	The main clause takes a perfect form.
During	The phone stayed silent during the lecture.	A noun phrase follows.
Meanwhile	Meanwhile, the team prepared the report.	Marks events happening at the same time.
At the same time	At the same time, prices began to fall.	Neutral; marks simultaneous events.
Previously	Previously, the firm operated from Lahore.	Formal; refers to an earlier period.
Earlier	Earlier, the manager had approved the plan.	Neutral; refers to a point before now.
Later	Later, the committee revised the budget.	Marks a following point.
Afterward	The meeting ended; afterward, we had lunch.	Marks the time after an event.
Subsequently	The bill was passed and subsequently signed.	Formal; marks a following event.
Thereafter	He left in 2015 and wrote nothing thereafter.	Formal; means “after that time”.
Immediately	Immediately after the call, she left.	Marks no delay between two events.
Eventually	Eventually, the rain stopped.	Marks an end result after a long period.

Linking Words For Examples

An example is a specific case of the general statement before it. “For example” and “for instance” stand at the start of a new sentence, but “such as” and “including” take a noun phrase inside the same sentence.

Linking word	Example sentence	Usage note
For example	Many fruits are rich in fibre. For example, guavas have a high amount.	Neutral; opens a sentence or follows a semicolon.
For instance	Some tools are free. For instance, the editor has no cost.	Neutral; interchangeable with “for example”.
Such as	Fruits such as mangoes ripen in summer.	A noun phrase follows.
Like	Cities like Karachi attract many workers.	Informal; a noun phrase follows.
Including	The fee covers meals, including breakfast.	Names items that belong to the group.
In particular	Spices matter here, in particular cumin.	Singles out one item.
Particularly	Rents are high, particularly in the centre.	Singles out the strongest case.
Especially	I like autumn, especially October.	Singles out the strongest case.
Notably	Several firms grew, notably the smallest.	Formal; points to a striking case.
Namely	Two skills are tested, namely speaking and listening.	Names the exact items.
Specifically	The law covers drivers, specifically those on highways.	Narrows the group.
To illustrate	To illustrate, consider the case of a small shop.	Formal; opens a developed case.
As an illustration	As an illustration, the table lists three regions.	Formal.
E.g.	Choose a fruit (e.g. apple or pear).	Written form of “for example”; used in brackets.

Linking Words For Summary And Conclusion

A conclusion is the final part of an argument, and a concluding word introduces it. “In conclusion” and “to sum up” are used to restate the main points, and “overall” and “ultimately” to state the final judgment. Each stands at the start of the closing sentence and is followed by a comma.

Linking word	Example sentence	Usage note
In conclusion	In conclusion, the evidence supports the new policy.	Formal; opens the final paragraph.
To conclude	To conclude, the project met its targets.	Formal.
In summary	In summary, the study found three causes.	Formal; restates the main points.
To summarize	To summarize, the plan is affordable and fast.	Formal.
To sum up	To sum up, costs fell while quality rose.	Neutral.
In short	In short, the offer was too weak.	Neutral; gives a brief closing statement.
In brief	In brief, the contract allows two renewals.	Formal; very short statement.
Briefly	Briefly, the proposal cuts costs and time.	Neutral.
Overall	Overall, the results were positive.	Neutral; gives the general picture.
All in all	All in all, it was a successful year.	Informal to neutral.
On the whole	On the whole, the reviews were favourable.	Neutral; accepts minor exceptions.
Altogether	Altogether, the campaign raised ten million rupees.	Gives a total.
Finally	Finally, the committee approved the budget.	Marks the last point.
Ultimately	Ultimately, the choice is a matter of cost.	Marks a final result or judgment.
In the end	In the end, we chose the cheaper supplier.	Neutral; closes a sequence of events.
Therefore	Therefore, the proposal should be accepted.	Formal; states the conclusion that follows.
Thus	Thus, the hypothesis holds.	Formal; academic writing.

Linking Words For Emphasis

Emphasis is the extra weight given to one statement. “Indeed” and “in fact” are used to strengthen the previous statement, “above all” to mark the highest priority, and “undoubtedly” to express certainty. All of them stand at the start of a clause or before the main verb.

Linking word	Example sentence	Usage note
Indeed	The task was hard; indeed, it took a week.	Formal; strengthens the previous statement.
In fact	The meeting was brief. In fact, it lasted ten minutes.	Neutral; adds a stronger or more exact fact.
As a matter of fact	As a matter of fact, I met her yesterday.	Conversational.
Above all	Above all, keep the instructions short.	Marks the highest priority.
Most of all	I miss the food most of all.	Neutral; singles out the strongest feeling.
Most importantly	Most importantly, the team agreed on the budget.	Marks the highest priority.
Especially	Prices rose, especially in cities.	Singles out the strongest case.
Particularly	The roads are busy, particularly at night.	Singles out the strongest case.
In particular	The staff, in particular, deserve thanks.	Singles out one group.
Notably	Notably, no complaints were filed.	Formal; points to a striking fact.
Undoubtedly	Undoubtedly, the new system is faster.	Formal; states certainty.
Certainly	Certainly, the results are impressive.	Neutral; states certainty.
Clearly	Clearly, the plan needs more funding.	Neutral; states an evident fact.
Of course	Of course, the fee is non-refundable.	Neutral; marks a fact already understood.
Without a doubt	Without a doubt, she is the strongest candidate.	Emphatic.

Linking Words For Clarification

Clarification is a more exact version of a statement that is too general. “That is” and “namely” are used to narrow the statement to specific items, and “to be precise” to give an exact figure. A comma follows most of them.

Linking word	Example sentence	Usage note
That is	The venue is central, that is, ten minutes from the station.	Introduces a more exact statement.
That is to say	He is a polyglot, that is to say, he speaks many languages.	Formal.
I.e.	The deadline is fixed (i.e. it cannot move).	Written form of “that is”; used in brackets.
Namely	Two skills are tested, namely speaking and listening.	Names the exact items.
Specifically	The rule applies to drivers, specifically those on highways.	Narrows the group.
To be specific	To be specific, the fee covers two sessions.	Neutral.
To be precise	The trip took three hours, to be precise, three hours ten.	Gives an exact figure.
More precisely	He lives in Punjab, more precisely, in Bahawalpur.	Formal.
I mean	Come at six, I mean, six sharp.	Informal; speech.
Meaning	The shop opens daily, meaning weekends are included.	Introduces the consequence of a statement.
Which means	The server is down, which means the site is offline.	Neutral.
To clarify	To clarify, the deposit is refundable.	Neutral; opens a correction of a misreading.
In particular	The rules apply to everyone, in particular to new staff.	Singles out one group.

Linking Words of Clarification in English

Linking Words For Purpose

Purpose is the reason an action is performed. “To”, “in order to”, and “so as to” are followed by an infinitive, whereas “so that” and “in order that” are followed by a full clause containing a modal verb. Formal writing adds “lest” and “for fear that”, which express a purpose of avoiding a result.

Linking Words of Reason or Purpose in English

Linking word	Example sentence	Usage note
To	She saved money to buy a laptop.	An infinitive follows.
In order to	He left early in order to catch the first bus.	Neutral; an infinitive follows.
So as to	They spoke quietly so as to avoid waking the baby.	Formal; an infinitive follows.
So that	He left early so that he could catch the bus.	A full clause follows.
In order that	The rules were simplified in order that everyone could follow them.	Formal; a full clause follows.
For the purpose of	The fund exists for the purpose of training teachers.	Formal; a noun phrase or -ing form follows.
With the aim of	She moved abroad with the aim of studying law.	An -ing form follows.
With the intention of	He called with the intention of apologising.	An -ing form follows.
In the hope of	She applied in the hope of winning a scholarship.	An -ing form follows.
Lest	He wrote it down lest he forget.	Formal; the verb that follows is in the base form.
For fear that	She whispered for fear that someone would hear.	Formal; expresses a feared result.
So	I opened the window so the room would cool down.	Informal; a full clause follows.

Linking Words For Sequence

Sequence is the order in which steps or points are presented. “First”, “next”, “then”, and “finally” are used in instructions and narration, whereas “firstly” and “secondly” number the points of a formal argument.

Linking word	Example sentence	Usage note
First	First, open the file.	Marks the opening step.
Firstly	Firstly, the budget is too low.	Formal; starts a series of points.
First of all	First of all, check your login details.	Neutral; starts a series.
To begin with	To begin with, the fee is high.	Neutral; starts a series.
To start with	To start with, the room is small.	Informal to neutral.
Initially	Initially, the team doubted the plan.	Formal; marks the earliest stage.
At first	At first, nobody noticed the error.	Neutral; contrasts with a later change.
Second	Second, save the changes.	Marks the next step.
Secondly	Secondly, the location is poor.	Formal; continues a series of points.
Next	Next, add the sugar.	Marks the following step.
Then	Mix the flour, then add the eggs.	Neutral; marks the next step.
After that	After that, the guests left.	Neutral; marks what follows.
Following that	Following that, the board voted.	Formal.
Subsequently	The bill was passed and subsequently signed.	Formal; chronological writing.
Later	Later, the committee revised the budget.	Marks a following point.
Eventually	Eventually, the rain stopped.	Marks the end after a long period.
Finally	Finally, close the lid.	Marks the last step.
Lastly	Lastly, thank the guests.	Marks the last item in a series.
At last	At last, the results arrived.	Marks the end of a wait.
In the end	In the end, we chose the cheaper supplier.	Closes a sequence of events.

Linking Words For Condition

A condition is the circumstance on which an event depends. “If”, “unless”, “provided that”, and “as long as” are placed at the start of the conditional clause. The verb form in that clause expresses whether the condition is real, unlikely, or impossible.

Linking word	Example sentence	Usage note
If	If it rains, we will stay home.	Main conditional conjunction.
Unless	Unless it rains, we will play outside.	Means “if not”.
Even if	We will go even if it rains.	The result holds under any condition.
Only if	You enter only if you have a pass.	Limits the condition.
As long as	You may borrow it as long as you return it.	Marks a required condition.
So long as	So long as the fee is paid, the seat is yours.	Formal; same meaning as “as long as”.
Provided that	The loan is approved provided that the papers are complete.	Formal.
Providing that	Providing that the weather holds, the event goes ahead.	Formal.
On condition that	He agreed on condition that the work stayed private.	Formal; legal writing.
Assuming that	Assuming that the data is correct, the plan works.	Marks a premise taken as true.
Supposing that	Supposing that the bus is late, what will you do?	Introduces a hypothetical case.
In case	Take an umbrella in case it rains.	Gives a precaution, not a condition.
In the event that	In the event that the power fails, use the backup.	Formal.
Otherwise	Leave now; otherwise, you will miss the train.	States the result if the condition fails.
If not	Finish the report today. If not, tell me.	Refers back to the previous clause.
Whether	We will go whether it rains or not.	Marks both outcomes.

Linking Words For Alternatives

Alternatives are options presented as a choice or as a replacement. A choice is expressed with “or” and “either … or”, and the rejection of every option with “neither … nor”. A replacement is expressed with “instead” and “rather than”, and a further option is introduced in a new sentence with “alternatively”.

Linking word	Example sentence	Usage note
Or	We can walk or take a taxi.	Joins two options.
Either … or	You can pay either online or in cash.	Offers two options.
Neither … nor	Neither the manager nor the clerk was present.	Rejects both options.
Or else	Hurry, or else we will be late.	States the result if the first option fails.
Otherwise	Sign here; otherwise, the form is invalid.	Formal; states the result if the first option fails.
Alternatively	Alternatively, you can book online.	Formal; offers another option.
Instead	The shop was closed, so we ate at home instead.	Names the replacement.
Instead of	Instead of driving, she took the train.	A noun phrase or an -ing form follows.
Rather than	Rather than wait, we left.	Names the option not chosen.
On the other hand	You can rent. On the other hand, buying saves money.	Presents the opposing option.
Whether … or	I wonder whether to stay or go.	Marks two possibilities.
Or rather	He arrived at noon, or rather, at ten past.	Corrects the previous option.

Linking Words For Restatement In English

Restatement is the same meaning expressed in different words. “In other words”, “that is to say”, and “put differently” are placed before the new wording, after a comma or at the start of a sentence. No new fact is added.

Linking word	Example sentence	Usage note
In other words	The bridge is closed. In other words, traffic uses the old road.	Neutral; repeats the idea differently.
That is to say	He is bilingual, that is to say, he speaks two languages.	Formal.
Put differently	Put differently, the plan costs more than it saves.	Formal.
To put it another way	To put it another way, the offer is too low.	Neutral.
Stated differently	Stated differently, demand fell by half.	Formal; academic writing.
In simple terms	In simple terms, the tax rises by two percent.	Neutral; restates in plainer words.
To put it simply	To put it simply, the system is offline.	Neutral.
To rephrase	To rephrase, the rule applies to all staff.	Formal.
Which is to say	The room is silent, which is to say, nobody is present.	Formal.
Or rather	He is a teacher, or rather, a trainer.	Corrects the previous wording.
In essence	In essence, the policy cuts costs.	Formal; states the core idea.
That is	The venue is central, that is, ten minutes from the station.	Introduces a more exact restatement.

Linking Words For Generalization

A generalization is a statement that holds in most cases, with exceptions. “In general”, “as a rule”, and “on the whole” are used for the broad statement, and “typically” and “on average” refer to the standard instance. All of them stand at the start of a sentence or before the main verb.

Linking Words of Generalize Information in English

Linking word	Example sentence	Usage note
In general	In general, trains in this region run on time.	Neutral; states a broad truth.
Generally	Generally, shops close at nine.	Neutral.
Generally speaking	Generally speaking, wages rise with experience.	Neutral to formal.
Broadly speaking	Broadly speaking, the results agree.	Formal.
On the whole	On the whole, the reviews were favourable.	Accepts minor exceptions.
By and large	By and large, students passed the test.	Neutral to informal.
As a rule	As a rule, the office opens at eight.	Neutral; states a regular practice.
As a general rule	As a general rule, fees are paid in advance.	Neutral to formal.
For the most part	For the most part, the staff were helpful.	Neutral.
In most cases	In most cases, the form is approved within a week.	Neutral.
Mostly	The guests were mostly students.	Informal to neutral.
Largely	The delay was largely due to weather.	Formal.
To a large extent	To a large extent, the plan succeeded.	Formal.
Typically	Typically, the course runs for six weeks.	Neutral.
Usually	Usually, I walk to work.	Neutral; describes a habit.
Normally	Normally, the shop opens at nine.	Neutral; describes a standard practice.
Overall	Overall, the project met its targets.	Neutral; states the general picture.
On average	On average, students submit two drafts.	Neutral; refers to a typical figure.

Linking Words For Sequence

Linking word	Example sentence	Usage note
First	First, open the file.	Marks the opening step.
Firstly	Firstly, the budget is too low.	Formal; starts a series of points.
First of all	First of all, check your login details.	Neutral; starts a series.
To begin with	To begin with, the fee is high.	Neutral; starts a series.
To start with	To start with, the room is small.	Informal to neutral.
Initially	Initially, the team doubted the plan.	Formal; marks the earliest stage.
At first	At first, nobody noticed the error.	Neutral; contrasts with a later change.
Second	Second, save the changes.	Marks the next step.
Secondly	Secondly, the location is poor.	Formal; continues a series of points.
Next	Next, add the sugar.	Marks the following step.
Then	Mix the flour, then add the eggs.	Neutral; marks the next step.
After that	After that, the guests left.	Neutral; marks what follows.
Following that	Following that, the board voted.	Formal.
Subsequently	The bill was passed and subsequently signed.	Formal; chronological writing.
Later	Later, the committee revised the budget.	Marks a following point.
Eventually	Eventually, the rain stopped.	Marks the end after a long period.
Finally	Finally, close the lid.	Marks the last step.
Lastly	Lastly, thank the guests.	Marks the last item in a series.
At last	At last, the results arrived.	Marks the end of a wait.
In the end	In the end, we chose the cheaper supplier.	Closes a sequence of events.

A To Z List Of Linking Words

Letter	Linking words
A	Accordingly, Additionally, Afterward, Also, Although, And, Anyway, As, As a result, As long as, As well as
B	Because, Because of, Before, Besides, But, By contrast
C	Consequently, Conversely
D	Despite, Due to, During
E	Either, Equally, Even so, Even though, Eventually
F	Finally, First, For example, For instance, Furthermore
G	Given that
H	Hence, However
I	If, In addition, In any event, In conclusion, In contrast, In fact, In the end, Instead
J	Just as
L	Lastly, Later, Likewise
M	Meanwhile, Moreover
N	Next, Nevertheless, Nonetheless, Notwithstanding
O	On account of, Once, On the other hand, Otherwise, Owing to
P	Plus, Previously, Provided that
R	Rather, Regardless
S	Similarly, Since, So, So that, Still, Subsequently, Such as
T	Then, Thereafter, Therefore, Though, Thus, To begin with
U	Ultimately, Unless, Unlike, Until
V	Vice versa
W	Whereas, When, Whenever, Whether, While, With this in mind
Y	Yet

How to Use Linking Words in Sentences

A connector must fit both the meaning and the grammatical structure. Punctuation cannot be chosen from the word alone. First decide whether the connector is a conjunction, a sentence transition, or a phrase that takes an object.

At the Beginning of a Sentence

Sentence transitions such as however, therefore, in addition, and for example are commonly followed by a comma when they introduce the whole sentence: “However, the final decision remained unchanged.”

The same rule does not apply to every connector. A subordinating conjunction begins a clause rather than standing apart from it. Write “Although the road was busy, we arrived on time,” not “Although, the road was busy.” Prepositional connectors such as despite and because of must be followed by a noun phrase or an -ing form.

Correct: However, the final decision remained unchanged. ✅
Incorrect: Although, the road was busy, we arrived on time. ❌

The incorrect sentence separates a subordinating conjunction from the clause it introduces.

Between Two Independent Clauses

When a conjunctive adverb connects two independent clauses in one sentence, place a semicolon before it and a comma after it. A period can replace the semicolon when a clearer break is preferable.

Correct: The road was closed; therefore, we took another route. ✅
Incorrect: The road was closed, therefore, we took another route. ❌

A comma alone cannot normally join two independent clauses. That error is called a comma splice.

A period is equally correct: “The road was closed. Therefore, we took another route.” The choice between a semicolon and a period depends on how closely the writer wants the two statements to remain connected.

With Coordinating Conjunctions

The main coordinating conjunctions are for, and, nor, but, or, yet, and so. Use a comma before one of these words when it joins two independent clauses: “I wanted to stay, but the last train was leaving.”

A comma is usually unnecessary when the conjunction joins single words, phrases, or two verbs with the same subject: “She opened the window and turned on the fan.” Correlative pairs such as either … or and not only … but also should connect grammatically parallel structures.

Correct: The report is concise, but it contains all the required evidence. ✅
Incorrect: The report is concise; but, it contains all the required evidence. ❌

A coordinating conjunction does not take the semicolon-plus-comma pattern used with a conjunctive adverb.

With Subordinating Conjunctions

Common subordinating conjunctions include although, because, if, since, unless, when, and while. They introduce dependent clauses. When the dependent clause comes first, place a comma after it: “Because the battery was flat, the car would not start.”

When the main clause comes first, a comma is usually unnecessary: “The car would not start because the battery was flat.” A comma may be needed when the final clause is nonessential, contrasting, or potentially unclear, so meaning still takes priority over a memorized pattern.

Correct: Although the price was high, the equipment was reliable. ✅
Incorrect: Although the price was high, but the equipment was reliable. ❌

Standard English normally uses one conjunction to create this relationship. Do not combine although with but in the same clause pattern.

Linking Words In Speaking And Writing

English linking words vary by context and register. Everyday speech relies heavily on short connectors such as and, but, so, because, then, and anyway. Formal writing uses the same logical relationships, but it often chooses more explicit forms such as however, therefore, moreover, and consequently. Writers working on academic paragraphs can also compare these choices with transition words for essays.

Formality is not a simple word replacement exercise. But and however both show contrast, yet they follow different grammar. So and therefore both introduce a result, but one is a coordinating conjunction and the other is a conjunctive adverb. The sentence structure must change with the connector.

Good cohesion does not require a connector in every sentence. Repetition of the same noun, a pronoun reference, a logical sentence order, or a clear topic sentence may create a smoother connection. Too many transition words can make writing sound mechanical.

Informal Linking Words

Neutral and conversational linkers join clauses inside a sentence and suit speech, messages, and relaxed writing.

Linking word	Function	Usage note
But	Contrast	Use it as a conjunction between two clauses.
So	Result	It joins clauses directly.
Also	Addition	It adds a point in neutral writing.
Plus	Addition	It is common in speech and informal writing.
Anyway	Return to the main point	It brings the conversation back after a side comment.
Then	Sequence	It marks the next step in everyday narration.
Because of	Cause	A noun phrase follows it, not a full clause.
In the end	Outcome	It closes a sequence of events.

Formal Linking Words

Formal linkers usually open a new sentence or follow a semicolon, and they suit reports, essays, and professional writing.

Linking word	Function	Usage note
However or nevertheless	Contrast	Use it as a sentence transition, not a conjunction.
Therefore or consequently	Result	It needs a semicolon or a new sentence.
Moreover or furthermore	Addition	It introduces a full additional point.
In addition	Addition	It replaces plus in formal writing.
In any event	Return to the main point	It brings attention back to the main point.
Subsequently	Sequence	It suits formal chronological writing.
Due to or owing to	Cause	A noun phrase follows it, not a full clause.
Ultimately	Outcome	Use it for a final result or judgment.

Linking Words Examples in a Paragraph

Paragraph cohesion depends on a connector that matches the relation between two complete ideas. The same information reads as disconnected, neutral, or formal depending on the connectors chosen.

Disconnected: Leila wanted to improve her writing. She read model essays. She kept a vocabulary notebook. She practised every evening. Her sentences became more precise.

Neutral: Leila wanted to improve her writing, so she read model essays and kept a vocabulary notebook. In addition, she practised every evening. As a result, her sentences became more precise.

Formal: Leila wanted to improve her writing; therefore, she studied model essays and maintained a vocabulary notebook. Furthermore, she practised every evening. Consequently, her sentences became more precise.

The neutral version suits classroom and workplace writing. The formal version replaces “so” with a conjunctive adverb and takes a semicolon before it. Name the relation first (cause, addition, or result), then select the connector and the punctuation that goes with it.

Common Linking Word Mistakes

But and however: “But” follows a comma. “However” needs a semicolon or a full stop before it.

The plan is expensive, but it is reliable. ✅
The plan is expensive; however, it is reliable. ✅
The plan is expensive, however, it is reliable. ❌

Because and because of: “Because” takes a clause. “Because of” takes a noun phrase or an -ing form.

The flight was delayed because the weather was severe. ✅
The flight was delayed because of severe weather. ✅
The flight was delayed because of the weather was severe. ❌

Although and despite: “Although” takes a clause. “Despite” takes a noun phrase or an -ing form, never “despite of”.

Although the room was small, it felt comfortable. ✅
Despite its small size, the room felt comfortable. ✅
Despite the room was small, it felt comfortable. ❌

So and therefore: “So” follows a comma. “Therefore” follows a semicolon or opens a new sentence.

The road was flooded, so we turned back. ✅
The road was flooded; therefore, we turned back. ✅
The road was flooded, therefore, we turned back. ❌

For example and such as: “For example” opens a complete sentence. “Such as” takes examples inside a noun phrase.

Some metals conduct electricity. For example, copper is an excellent conductor. ✅
Conductive metals, such as copper and silver, are used in wiring. ✅
Conductive metals, for example copper and silver are used in wiring. ❌

FAQs

Q1. What are linking words in English?

Linking words are words and phrases that connect ideas and show relationships such as addition, contrast, cause, result, sequence, or condition. Examples include and, however, because, therefore, and first.

Q2. What are 10 common linking words?

Ten common choices are and, but, because, so, however, therefore, although, for example, first, and finally. Each word has its own grammatical pattern, so meaning alone is not enough.

Q3. How do you use linking words in a sentence?

First identify the relationship between the ideas. Then choose a connector that expresses that relationship and punctuate it according to its grammatical type.

Q4. Are linking words the same as transition words and connecting words?

The terms overlap in everyday teaching. Linking words and connecting words are broad labels, while transition words often refers more specifically to expressions that guide readers between clauses, sentences, or paragraphs.

Q5. What is the difference between linking words and conjunctions?

A conjunction is a grammatical class that connects words, phrases, or clauses. Linking word is a broader functional label that can include conjunctions, conjunctive adverbs, prepositional phrases, and other connectors.

Q6. Can you start a sentence with however or therefore?

Yes. When however or therefore introduces a sentence, it is normally followed by a comma: “However, the plan remained unchanged.” A new sentence or a semicolon is needed before it when the previous statement is an independent clause.

Q7. Can the same linking word be repeated in a paragraph?

Yes, when repetition is clear and natural. Forced variety can produce an inaccurate connector, so repeat a suitable word when necessary, but revise obvious repetition that makes the writing mechanical.

Q8. How many linking words are there in English?

English has no fixed total because references include different sets of conjunctions, transitions, phrases, and discourse markers. A practical learning list usually focuses on the most common connectors and their correct uses.

Q9. Which linking words are formal or informal?

Short words such as but, so, and plus are common in conversation and neutral writing. Expressions such as however, therefore, moreover, and consequently are more common in formal prose, but they also require different sentence structures.

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