Connectors in English

There are a number of connectors in the English Language that can be used to help you show
contrast, similarity, outcome, result, sequence and order or relevance or importance,
exemplification, emphasis, explanation, dismissal, summarising or concluding,
particularising, focusing, timing, and correction.

Connectors are especially useful when it comes to your IELTS writing exam and the
Speaking exam.  

Below is a list of all the connectors in the English language categorized by what they are used
for.

There are also examples to help you see how they are applied. 

Connectors for the Writing and Speaking Exam

Similarity

1. Likewise (can be used for both the writing and speaking tests)

In his budget the Minister of Finance increased spending on higher education, he likewise
improved spending on social development.

2. In the same way (can be used for both the writing and speaking tests)

Religious doctrine is used to teach people right from wrong in the same way as fables were
used to teach simple human truths.

3. Similarly (can be used for both the writing and speaking tests)

Italian painters are renowned for their innovative works. The Greeks are similarly known for
their philosophies.

4. Also  (can be used for both the writing and speaking, but there are more academic
sounding alternatives to “also” to use in your essays). 

Employees of any large organisation expect fair treatment. They also expect to earn a fair
wage.

5. Correspondingly (writing)

The cost of living in large cities is higher than in the country but the salaries are
correspondingly higher.

6. Simultaneously (writing)
Most governments simultaneously tackle crime and unemployment as they are seen as two
sides of the same coin.

7. In the same breath  (writing)

Many countries express the view that climate change must be halted. In the same breath they
throw suspicion on the whole global warming issue. 

Connectors for Outcome and Result (writing)  

1. Therefore (ok for both)

Most governments believe in the importance of education. They are, therefore, willing to
invest large amounts of money in improving the quality of the education.

2. As a consequence (ok for both)

The nuclear disaster at Fukushima was worse than the scientists had anticipated. As a
consequence the Japanese government has changed the way that nuclear power plants are
built. 

3. Thus (more for writing)

The local council received additional funding for the arts. They were, thus able to renovate
the art gallery on the city centre. 

4. As a result (neutral, can be used in the speaking and in your essays)

It rains quite often in Europe, as a result, most Europeans tend to vacation in sunnier
destinations.

5. Accordingly  (writing)

The quality of products started to decrease rapidly so the government acted accordingly and
started to inspect all incoming goods. 

Contrast (writing)

1. Nonetheless

Humans only use on average about 10% of their brains. They are, nonetheless, able to
compute huge amounts of data, coming up with ever more innovative ideas.

2. Nevertheless

I really wasn’t feeling very well, I, nevertheless, went to work because I had a presentation to
do.

3. In contrast
Coastal tourism is on the rise. In contrast, visits to urban areas are declining as people reduce
business travel and confine meetings to video conferencing.

4. However

The government planned to re-introduce the death penalty. There was, however, a public
outcry and they had to halt the legislation.

5. Yet

Today most people are aware of the dangers of smoking and yet many people continue to
damage their health by smoking

6. All the same (more suited for spoken English)

Tourists are often drawn by inner city art otherwise known as graffiti. All the same many city
councils regularly remove the art. 

7. In any case (more for spoken English)

The much anticipated outdoor exhibition was called off at the last minute. In any case the
weather was awful so the exhibition would not have drawn many visitors

8. Instead (ok for both)

America should consider amending their gun laws, instead, they ignore the problem.

9. On the contrary (ok for both)

The curator of the museum was of the opinion that the Antiquities room would draw the most
interest. He found, on the contrary, that the natural sciences display was much more popular.

10. By comparison (ok for writing)

Tourism in the 20th century has been driven by the availability of high speed transport. By
comparison, in the 19th century, tourists had to rely on ships and trains to get to their
destinations. 

11. On the other hand (more used in writing but can be used when speaking too)

Some people contend that antibacterial soaps and detergents are good because they ensure a
bacteria free environment. On the other hand, there are those who disagree arguing that
ridding the environment of microbes robs us of the ability to form an immune response.  

Connectors to illustrate a sequence (speaking)

5. For one thing

He was asked why he seldom read the newspapers. His reply “For one thing, the news is
depressing, for another, I prefer to spend my spare time watching documentaries.”
 6. To begin with

He found that the work was easy to begin with, but it got progressively more difficult as he
went along.

7. For another thing

People with common sense should quit smoking. For one thing it costs a fortune. For another
thing it is dangerous and can lead to a number of nasty diseases. 

9. Also

The charity was looking for volunteer workers to man the stalls. They also needed people
who were prepared to stay overnight and look after the valuable goods that would go on sale
over the weekend.

Connectors to illustrate a sequence (writing)

1. First, Firstly, In the first place, First of all

The local council should not allow people to sleep on the streets in the first place.

2. Second, Secondly, In the second place

It is first and foremost the government’s responsibility create employment. In the second
place they should ensure that employers treat their workers fairly and with respect.

3. Third, Thirdly, In the third place

In seeking employment she wanted to ensure that she followed her dreams. Secondly she
wanted a decent wage and thirdly she hoped that there were opportunities for promotion. 

4. Last, Lastly, Last of all (can also be used in your speaking)

Lastly it is the responsibility of the most senior member of staff to ensure that the offices are
locked and secured at the end of the day

8. In addition

The organisation offered to make amends for any problems that had been caused by the
misinformation that had been published in their magazine. In addition, they discounted the
next edition of the glossy publication.

10. Besides

Besides the medical aid costing too much, it fails to offer even the most basic of out of
hospital services

11. Moreover
Over the years computers have become more and more powerful, moreover they have also
become less expensive.

12. Furthermore

The houses in the neighbourhood were large and spacious. Furthermore, they had easy access
to public transport. 

13. Finally

The shipment of computers was three weeks late, but when it finally arrived the staff agreed
that the quality and high speed made the wait worthwhile. 

Order of relevance or importance

1. Most importantly  (suitable for both the speaking and the writing tests)

We should discuss how to maintain a work life balance, most importantly, how organisations
can ensure that employees are not overworked.

2. Most significantly  (suitable for both the speaking and the writing tests)

The president said that the year ahead would be different. Most significantly he indicated that
he would re-allocate funding to obtaining additional resources.

3. Essentially, Basically (suitable for both the speaking and the writing tests)

The manager said that it was basically the responsibility of every employee to ensure that the
customers were delighted with the service that they received.

4. Above all (suitable for both the speaking and the writing tests)

The leader of the opposition said that it was his responsibility to ensure that the government
was transparent. Above all he was concerned that corruption is kept at bay. 

5. Primarily (more common to write this word than say it) 

The government is primarily responsible for the welfare of the people.

Exemplification – Giving Examples

1. For example  (suitable for both)

If, for example, we could put the well-being of others before ourselves the world would be a
much happier place for all. 

2. For instance  (suitable for both)

Modern urban populations are battling lifestyle diseases brought on by obesity. Diabetes, for
instance, is growing in prevalence and more and more people have to take chronic
medication. 

3. To illustrate

Misinformation can cause many disagreements. To illustrate, a company advertising goods at

an incorrect price could lead to disgruntled customers.

Emphasis

1. In fact  (suitable for both)

It could be argued that trade sanctions are trouble for the economy. In fact, many would say
that the imposition of sanctions could start a war.

2. Actually (more commonly found when speaking)

The doctor thought that the patient had measles when, actually, it was something far more
severe.

3. As a matter of fact (more commonly found when speaking)

What most people fail to understand is that travelling isn’t for everyone, as a matter of fact,
many people prefer to settle down in one place.

4. Indeed  (could be difficult to use this phrase naturally in spoken English, therefore
better for the writing). 

Indeed, it may be a lot easier to just give up on passing your driver’s licence test.

Explanation

1. Namely (suitable for both)

The teacher had pointed out various countries around the world, namely, Portugal, Brazil,
India and Australia.

2. That is to say (that is) (more suitable for spoken English)

He was not found guilty in a court of law that is to say he walked out scot free. 

3. Put differently (“in other words” can also be used) (use this in spoken English)

It gets really busy during the holiday season and the beaches tend to get crowded, put
differently, rather go to the beach before the holiday season starts.

4. In other words (more suitable for speaking)

There is much to discuss before choosing to start a family, in other words, think before you
rush into it.

Dismissal (dismissing what has been said prior)

1. Anyhow (definitely a spoken phrase, not academic)

Anyhow, I’ll just take the next train instead.

2. At any rate

At any rate, learning a new language will not be easy.

3. Anyway (informal)

Anyway, I will leave the function early.

Summarising or Concluding

1. In summary (formal)

In summary, I have come to the realisation that communication plays a big role in the success
of a team.

2. To sum up (both informal and formal)

To sum up my thoughts, I think choosing a single piece of art from a couple hundred is rather
difficult.

3. In conclusion (academic written English)

In conclusion, winning isn’t necessarily the most important thing, it’s the way you played the
game.

4. In brief (spoken English)

In brief, today’s headlines were depressing.

5. All in all (spoken English)

The project turned out okay, all in all, I think everyone did a fantastic job.

Specificity

1. Most specifically (ok for both)

Eating vegetables is very good for eyesight, most specifically, carrots are thought to improve
your night vision.
 2. In particular, particularly (ok for both)

Nearly a third of teenage girls will experience some form of abuse, in particular, physical
abuse by a boyfriend.

Focusing and Linking

1. With respect to (ok for both)

With respect to the contract, we regret that we are unable to accept the terms and conditions.

2. Regarding (ok for both)

Regarding the proposal, we regret that we are unable to agree with some of your
requirements. 

3. With regard to (more formal, better for the writing test)

With regard to your application for employment, I regret to inform you that you have not
succeeded in securing the job. 

4. As for (ok for both)

The entire dance troupe failed to impress the judges. As for the main dancer the less said the
better.

5. As far as (ok for both)

As far as I could see the travel destination was more than adequate for what we had in mind. 

7. Talking of / speaking of (speaking test)

Talking of relocating, do you know where you going to stay? Have you found and apartment?

8. When it comes to

Sometimes when it comes to debating it is best to let your opponent have the last word.

Timing

1. Then  (ok for both)

The municipal workers went on a day long course, then they took an exam. 

2. Afterwards (ok for both)

The Olympic team practiced for the bulk of the day. Afterwards they relaxed and spent time
with their families

3. At First (ok for both)

At first, I wasn’t sure how to start my preparation for the IELTS test and then I discovered
IELTS Podcast.

4. Meanwhile (ok for both)

The US and China are fighting over import duties, meanwhile the world economy is
suffering.

5. Later (ok for both)

I went to university to study accounting, later, I changed to engineering.

6. In the mean time (ok for both)

I plan to go to university next year. In the mean time I’d like to travel abroad.

Correction

1. To be more precise (ok for both)

I was not referring to a single doctrine, to be more precise I meant that I believe that all
religions are biased.

2. Rather (ok for both)

She wanted to be a dentist rather than a doctor.

If you want to

Linking words or connectors are the adverbs that turn out to be the easiest
way to connect ideas or sentences with one unique word. Such linking
words or connectors make the entire sentence look appealing. So, in any
way, if you find yourself stuck with handling these linking words or
connectors, here are a few tips that will help you out.

How do Linking Words or Connectors

Function? 
Jotted down below are a few reasons why you should be using linking
words or connectors in your IELTS writing tasks:

 They make your writing clear and appealing.

 You get to provide meaning to otherwise complex sentences.
 They help readers understand how one sentence is related to the other.
  They help to know the purpose of the question and also give an appropriate answer
to the question.

Tips to Use Linking words or Connectors

Here are a few tips that you can keep in mind when using linking words or
connectors:
Are you being accurate with your choice of words?
There are a lot of linking words that can be used in a sentence, so you
need to be careful while using the linking words and use them accurately.
Are you overusing linking words or connectors?
The linking words can be used once or twice in the sentence. Making
overuse of the linking words in the sentence makes the sentence
meaningless.
Are you mixing up?
Try to use a lot of linking words in the paragraph, but make sure the
sentence is meaningful while using these words. Using a single word many
times in a paragraph doesn’t make any sense. So while using the linking
words, use them wisely.

Common Linking words and Connectors used in

IELTS Writing
When writing an essay or a report in an IELTS exam, there are plenty of
linking words or connectors used throughout. You can take ideas from the
ones mentioned below:

When Writing Linking Words / Connectors 

Opinion  I think
 In my opinion
 I admit
 I believe
 In my view

In Situations:
  I think you will look good in black dress.
 In my opinion, you will look good in black dress.
 I admit that you will look good in black dress.
 I believe you will look good in black dress.
 In my view, you will look good in black dress.

 I agree
 I concur
 I disagree
 I cannot accept
 I oppose the idea

Agreement / In Situations:
Disagreement
 I agree with your statement.
 I concur with your statement.
 I disagree with your statement.
 I cannot accept your statement.
 I oppose the idea in your statement.

Examples  For instance

 For example
 To cite an example
 One clear example
 Namely
 To illustrate
 To give an example

In Situations:

 She is not dependable; for instance, she was an hour late for the meetin
yesterday.
 She is not dependable; for example, she was an hour late for the meetin
yesterday.
 She is not dependable. To cite an example, she was an hour late for the
meeting yesterday.
  She is not dependable. One clear example would be that she was an ho
for the meeting yesterday.
 She is not dependable; namely, she was an hour late for the meeting
yesterday.
 She is not dependable. To illustrate, she was an hour late for the meetin
yesterday.
 She is not dependable. To give an example, she was an hour late for the
meeting yesterday.

 Firstly, secondly, thirdly, lastly, etc.

 To begin with
 Last but not least.

In Situations:
Listing Points
 Firstly, it is expensive. Secondly, I cannot afford it. Thirdly, my mother wi
never allow me to buy it. Lastly, I am not interested.
 To begin with, it is expensive.
 Last but not least, I am not interested.

 As
 Since
 Due to
 Because
 Owing to

In Situations:
Reasons and Causes

 I got late as I was not feeling well.

 I got late since I was not feeling well.
 I got late due to not feeling well.
 I got late because I was not feeling well.
 I got late owing to not feeling well.

Extra Information  And

 In addition
  Additionally
 As well as
 Not only…but also

In Situations:

 Mobile and the internet are dominating our lives.

 In addition to mobile, the internet is dominating our lives.
 Mobile has revolutionised the world. Additionally, the internet is dominati
lives
 Mobile as well as the internet are dominating our lives
 Not only mobile but also the internet is dominating our lives

 As a result
 So
 Consequently
 Thus
 For this reason
 Hence

Results and In Situations:

Consequences
 He didn’t know how to swim, and as a result, he drowned.
 He didn’t know how to swim, so he drowned.
 He didn’t know how to swim, consequently he drowned.
 He didn’t know how to swim; thus, he drowned.
 He didn’t know how to swim, for this reason, he drowned.
 He didn’t know how to swim; hence, he drowned.

An Indication of Time  Eventually

 Meanwhile
 Subsequently
 Initially
 Henceforth

In Situations:
  If you try harder, eventually you will get a job.
 Meanwhile, try harder to get a job.
 You have applied to companies. Subsequently you must try harder to ge
 Initially, you must try harder to get a job.
 Henceforth, you must try harder to get a job.

 Specifically
 Especially
 Obviously
 In particular
 Of course
 Clearly

Highlighting or In Situations:
Emphasising
 The book is written specifically for children.
 The book is written especially for children.
 Obviously, the book is written for children.
 In particular, the book is written for children.
 Of course, the book is written for children.
 Clearly, the book is written for children.

Presenting Contrast  In spite of

 On the other hand
 However
 Despite
 Still
 Although
 But
 Even though

In Situations:

 In spite of the pain, she completed her shift.

 On one hand, she had pain; on the other hand, she was completing her
 She was in pain, however, she managed to complete her shift.
  Despite being in pain she managed to complete her shift
 She was in pain, still she completed her shift.
 Although she was in pain, she completed her shift.
 She was in pain but she completed her shift.
 Even though she was in pain, she completed her shift.

 Similarly
 Likewise
 In comparison to
 In the same way
 Admittedly

Presenting In Situations:
Comparison
 They all were dressed similarly.
 They all were dressed likewise.
 In comparison to others, they all were dressed alike.
 They all were dressed in the same way.
 Admittedly, they all were dressed in a similar way.

 To conclude
 In conclusion
 To sum up

In Situations:
Conclusion

 To conclude, I am never going to give up.

 In conclusion, I am never going to give up.
 To sum up, I am never going to give up.

You should ensure that you organise your ideas clearly by using a variety of linking
words and phrases. This will help improve your Cohesion and Coherence scores.

Adding information
 conjunctions: and, as well as
  adverbials: also, anyway, besides, furthermore, in addition, likewise,
moreover, similarly
We use these expressions to give additional information:
 Fish supplies as with substances that might protect against heart
disease. Moreover, in many cultures fish is known as a 'brain food'.

Sequencing
 adverbials: first, next, after that, then; firstly, secondly, finally
Firstly, secondly and finally are used to order points in an argument:
 Firstly, in terms of heart disease, it has been shown that consuming even
small quantities of fish can lower your risk of heart disease by
17%. Secondly, consuming fish is known to have a beneficial effect on
brain development. Finally, ...
First, next, after that and then describe the order of activities in a process:
 First the fruit is picked by hand. Then it is transported to the factory.

Cause, reason, result

 conjunctions: because, so
 adverbials: therefore, consequently, so, thus, as a result
 prepositions: because of, due to, on account of, owing to
Because introduces the reason for something, and so introduces the result:
 I eat fish three times a week because it protects against heart disease.
(reason)
 Fish protects against heart disease so I eat it three times a week. (result)
Therefore, consequently, so, thus, and as a result introduce the result of a
situation or action:
 As a result, people are 'unsure whether to increase or decrease the
amount of fish they eat.
We use because of, due to, on account of and owing to to introduce the reason for
something:
 The match was cancelled because of the snow. (not because of it was
snowing)
 The buses were all running late owing to the bad weather.
We can use due to, on account of and owing to + the fact that with a clause:
 The match was cancelled due to the fact that it was snowing.

Contrasting
 conjunctions: but, although, though
 adverbials: alternatively, however, in contrast, nevertheless, on the
contrary, on the other hand, yet
 prepositions: in spite of, despite
We use but between two contrasting ideas:
  Fish has long been a staple .food in many cultures, but there has been
sonic controversy recently about the benefits and risks of consumption.
Although can come at the beginning or in the middle of two contrasting ideas. We
use a comma between the two clauses:
 Although the work was supported by grants from the Fisheries
Scholarship Fund, this did not affect the research findings.
 The work was supported by grants from the Fisheries Scholarship
Fund, although this did not affect the research findings.
We use in spite of and despite + noun/-ing at the beginning or in the middle of two
contrasting ideas:
 In spite of the considerable amount of literature on the risks and benefits
of fish consumption, there are still important gaps in this information. (not in
spite of there is a considerable amount)
 I eat fish regularly for health reasons despite not liking it
much. (not despite I didn't like it)
We can use despite and in spite of + the fact that with a clause:
 I eat fish regularly for health reasons despite the fact that I don't like it
much.

Giving examples
 adverbials: that is to say, in other words, that is (i.e.), for example
We use these expressions to link two clauses that give the same information in a
different way or to give examples:
 There has been some controversy recently about the benefits and risks of
fish consumption. for example, we know that fish supplies us with
polyunsaturated fatty acids, substances that might protect against heart
disease.

Grammar exercise
Complete the answer to the Writing task below by choosing the correct linking
words from the box and adding the relevant figures from the table.

The table below gives information about the daily cost of water per person in five
different countries. (Figures are based on the minimum daily requirement per person of
11.5 litre.)

Write a report for a university lecturer describing the information below.

while

for instance

both

respectively

however

overall

whereas

also

first of all

despite

Exercise 2
Exercise 3

Exercise 4

Exercise 5

Exercise 6

Exercise 7
Exercise 8

Exercise 9