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(03) Transitional Words and Phrases
(03) Transitional Words and Phrases
(03) Transitional Words and Phrases
Transitional words and phrases (e.g. however , or , finally , before ) contribute to the
unity (cohesiveness) of a text. Indeed, without these words or phrases, a text will most
likely seem disorganized and will often be difficult to understand. When used they
provide greater organisation within a text and lead to greater understanding and
enjoyment on the part of the reader.
Transitional words and phrases can be placed in various places in a text. This might be:
• between paragraphs
• between sentences
Mexican immigration has recently been the subject of much discussion within US
political circles. However, most ordinary Americans know little of this burning issue.
Mexican immigration has recently been the subject of much discussion within US
political circles but most ordinary Americans know little of this burning issue .
1
2 Different functions of transitional words and phrases
2.1 Functions
Each transitional word or phrase can be given a different function , for example:
Time: then, now, first, second, next, before, after, today, tomorrow, at that point,
subsequently, eventually, in the past, in the future
Sequence: at first, secondly, thirdly, to begin with, at the same time, the next step, later
on, next, then, simultaneously, in conclusion
Place: in, on, at, near, nearby, here, there, in the vicinity of, above, below, beyond,
behind, around, next door, in front of, across, opposite
Contrast and comparison : conversely, not only…but also, nevertheless, by the same
token, likewise, on the one hand, on the other hand, similarly
Purpose : in order to, so that, to this end, for this purpose, for that reason
Restatement : in other words, namely, that is, that is to say, to put it differently
Illustration : for example, e.g., for instance, that is, specifically, in particular, for one
thing, an instance of this
Note that some words can have more than one function given to them (e.g. then ).