Adding and giving examples
| Word or phrase | Meaning | Example |
|---|---|---|
| in addition | also, as another point | In addition, public transport reduces air pollution. |
| furthermore | used to add a stronger point | Furthermore, remote work saves commuting time. |
| for instance | introducing an example | Many cities, for instance Oslo, have created car-free zones. |
| such as | introducing examples inside a sentence | Subjects such as maths and languages are essential. |
| in particular | highlighting a specific point | Young people, in particular, are affected by social media. |
| not only … but also | adding two related ideas | It not only saves money but also reduces stress. |
Contrast and concession
| Word or phrase | Meaning | Example |
|---|---|---|
| however | showing a contrast with a previous sentence | However, this policy has a serious drawback. |
| whereas | contrasting two things in one sentence | Cars are fast, whereas bicycles are cheaper. |
| although | accepting a point but giving a different view | Although online learning is convenient, it lacks social contact. |
| admittedly | accepting a point before disagreeing | Admittedly, the cost is high, but the benefits are greater. |
| on the other hand | introducing an opposite view | On the other hand, some people prefer to work in an office. |
| nevertheless | despite what was just said | Nevertheless, the plan deserves support. |
Cause, result and purpose
| Word or phrase | Meaning | Example |
|---|---|---|
| because of | showing cause before a noun | Many roads are closed because of heavy snow. |
| as a result | showing a consequence | As a result, more people are choosing to cycle. |
| therefore | for this reason | Therefore, governments should invest in training. |
| consequently | as a consequence | Consequently, employers struggle to find skilled workers. |
| so that | showing purpose | Schools offer evening classes so that adults can study. |
| lead to | cause a result | Long working hours can lead to stress. |
Concluding and summarising
| Word or phrase | Meaning | Example |
|---|---|---|
| in conclusion | starting the final paragraph | In conclusion, the advantages outweigh the disadvantages. |
| to sum up | summarising briefly | To sum up, a balanced approach is best. |
| overall | considering everything | Overall, I believe tougher rules are necessary. |
| given these points | based on what has been said | Given these points, a ban seems justified. |
| on balance | after considering both sides | On balance, the benefits are greater. |
| all things considered | taking everything into account | All things considered, remote work benefits most employees. |
How to use these words well
- Do not start every sentence with a connector; vary sentence beginnings.
- Check the punctuation: “however” usually has a comma after it.
- Choose the connector for the logic, not for the sound of it.
Study guides
Computer-Delivered IELTS: What Changes and What Stays the Same
Thinking about taking IELTS on a computer? Here is what stays the same, what feels different in Writing, Reading and Listening, and how to prepare for the screen.
IELTS Writing Task 1 Vocabulary for Graphs, Charts and Processes
Useful verbs, nouns, adverbs and sentence patterns for describing line graphs, bar charts, tables and processes in IELTS Task 1, with more than twelve example sentences.
Linking Words for IELTS and How to Use Them Correctly
A practical list of IELTS linking words grouped by function, with correct and incorrect examples, punctuation rules and a warning about overusing connectors.