60 English Linking Words and Conjunctions

To learn English linking words quickly, study the relationship between ideas before learning the word. Use because to give a reason, however to introduce a contrast, for example to illustrate and therefore to present a conclusion. A linking expression helps only when the ideas genuinely have that relationship. Memorising a large list of connectors without understanding the logic can make writing longer and less accurate.

If you searched for linking words in English, conjunctions with examples, connectors for writing, transition words for essays or how to improve English sentences, this guide offers sixty practical expressions, natural examples, grammar comparisons, dialogues, a seven-day learning plan and a quiz with answers. These terms are useful for everyday speaking, work emails, explanatory articles and essays, not only classroom exercises.

Quick answer: choose one logical job—adding, explaining, contrasting, sequencing, setting conditions or giving examples. Learn two or three expressions for that job, write an accurate sentence, then remove the connector and ask whether the logical relationship remains. If it doesn’t, repair the reasoning before replacing the connector.

Sixty English linking words and expressions with meanings and examples

The following is a curated learning set, not a verified ranking of the most frequently searched words. Some entries are conjunctions, others are adverbs, prepositions or multiword discourse markers. They have related communicative functions but do not all follow the same grammar. The examples show one relevant sense of each expression.

1. Adding information and offering alternatives

1. and — joins related elements. We bought bread and milk.
2. also — adds another relevant fact. The room is bright. It is also quiet.
3. as well as — adds a further item or person. She handles bookings as well as invoices.
4. in addition — introduces another supporting point. In addition, the service offers evening appointments.
5. furthermore — adds a supporting point in more formal writing. Furthermore, the revised plan requires less staff time.
6. moreover — adds an often emphatic related reason. Moreover, the proposal remains within budget.
7. besides — introduces an extra reason, often informal. We have enough food. Besides, the shops are still open.
8. not only … but also — emphasises two connected ideas. The guide is not only clear but also practical.
9. either … or — presents alternatives. We can meet either today or tomorrow.
10. neither … nor — rejects both alternatives. Neither the printer nor the scanner is working.

How to practise additions: Begin with two true statements. “The train is frequent. The train is affordable.” Join them: “The train is frequent and affordable.” To stress a second benefit, use “In addition, the station is nearby.” Either … or offers alternatives, but neither … nor rejects both. These combinations can change the decision, so do not choose them merely for variety.

2. Reasons, results and consequences

11. because — introduces a reason in a clause. The train stopped because the signal failed.
12. since — introduces a reason in some contexts. Since the form is incomplete, we must check it.
13. as — introduces a reason in some contexts. As the road was closed, we took another route.
14. because of — introduces a reason as a noun phrase. The event was delayed because of rain.
15. due to — attributes a result to a cause. The delay was due to a technical fault.
16. owing to — introduces a cause, often formally. Owing to a power cut, the office closed early.
17. therefore — introduces a conclusion or result. The document is missing; therefore, the review cannot finish.
18. thus — introduces a consequence or inference, often formally. The data were incomplete; thus, the conclusion remained provisional.
19. as a result — states a consequence. The payment failed. As a result, the booking was not confirmed.
20. consequently — introduces a result. The parcel arrived late; consequently, installation was postponed.

How to practise reasons: Compare “We stayed home because it rained” with “We stayed home because of the rain.” Both give a reason, but the first takes a clause and the second a noun phrase. Therefore is a linking adverb: “It rained. Therefore, we stayed home.” In a factual report, a result must follow logically from the stated cause; a connector cannot manufacture evidence.

3. Contrasting and qualifying ideas

21. but — joins contrasting ideas. The route is short but busy.
22. although — introduces a concession in a clause. Although it was raining, we went outside.
23. even though — emphasises a contrast with a fact. Even though the task was difficult, she completed it.
24. whereas — compares different facts. The first plan costs less, whereas the second takes less time.
25. while — introduces a contrast in this use. While I understand the concern, I prefer the safer option.
26. however — introduces a contrasting point between clauses. The price is low. However, delivery is expensive.
27. nevertheless — signals a point that holds despite a difficulty. The evidence is limited. Nevertheless, more research may help.
28. on the other hand — introduces another perspective. The flat is central. On the other hand, it is noisy.
29. despite — introduces an obstacle as a noun phrase or -ing form. Despite the rain, the event continued.
30. in spite of — introduces a concession with a noun phrase or -ing form. In spite of feeling tired, he finished the report.

How to practise contrasts: Compare “Although the hotel is convenient, it is expensive” with “The hotel is convenient. However, it is expensive.” Despite usually takes a noun phrase or an -ing phrase: “Despite the cost, we booked it.” Avoid the common error “despite of the cost.” Whereas works well for comparing two facts, while even though can emphasise an unexpected result.

4. Time and sequence

31. when — links an event to its time. Call me when the meeting ends.
32. before — places an action earlier than another. Check the address before you leave.
33. after — places an action later than another. We ate after the guests arrived.
34. until — describes continuation up to a point. Wait here until the doors open.
35. once — means after a condition or event happens. Once the figures are checked, we can send the report.
36. as soon as — means immediately after an event in ordinary use. I’ll reply as soon as I know.
37. then — marks a next step. First check the form; then send it.
38. meanwhile — links events occurring in the same period. The engineer checked the fault. Meanwhile, we informed customers.
39. subsequently — means at a later stage, often formally. The proposal was revised and subsequently approved.
40. finally — marks an ending step or concluding event. Finally, save the confirmed details.

How to practise sequence: Write three genuine steps and connect them with before, then, after and finally. “Check the figures before sending the report. Then obtain approval. Finally, file the confirmation.” Do not confuse event order with cause: after establishes timing but does not automatically mean one event caused the other.

5. Conditions, choices and purposes

41. if — introduces a condition. If the item is available, I’ll order it.
42. unless — introduces an exception or negative condition. We’ll leave at six unless the plan changes.
43. even if — indicates that a result holds despite a possible condition. I’ll check the route even if the weather improves.
44. provided that — sets a required condition, often formally. You can use the room provided that you book it.
45. as long as — sets a condition in this use. We can proceed as long as everyone agrees.
46. in case — describes preparation for a possibility. Take an umbrella in case it rains.
47. so that — introduces purpose or an intended result. Write the time down so that nobody forgets it.
48. in order to — introduces a purpose before an infinitive. We left early in order to avoid traffic.
49. whether … or — presents alternative possibilities. Please confirm whether you prefer Friday or Monday.
50. otherwise — introduces a different outcome or consequence. Please send the form today; otherwise, processing may be delayed.

How to practise conditions: “I’ll go if the shop opens” sets a condition. “I’ll go unless the shop closes” expresses an exception. In case often signals preparation: “Take an umbrella in case it rains.” With so that, explain the purpose: “Check the address so that the parcel reaches the right place.” Vague conditions can mislead readers about obligations and deadlines.

6. Examples, explanation, comparison and conclusions

51. for example — introduces an illustration. Many documents need checking. For example, invoices must show the correct amounts.
52. for instance — introduces a particular example. Some tasks can be automated; for instance, routine reminders.
53. such as — introduces examples in a phrase. Bring documents such as your receipt and confirmation.
54. specifically — narrows a claim to precise detail. We found one problem, specifically an incorrect date.
55. in particular — highlights an element. The route helps commuters, in particular those travelling early.
56. that is — explains or restates a meaning. The payment is pending; that is, it has not yet been completed.
57. in other words — restates something more clearly. The plan is not feasible. In other words, we cannot complete it with the resources available.
58. similarly — marks a relevant similarity. The first team checked each file. Similarly, the second team used a checklist.
59. in comparison — introduces a comparison. In comparison, the earlier route is shorter.
60. overall — introduces a balanced summary. Overall, the benefits appear to outweigh the costs.

How to practise examples: A real example must fit the claim. “Some documents require identification, for example, travel bookings in particular contexts” is a possible illustration, but you must not imply every service has the same rules. In other words should restate the meaning faithfully. Overall should summarise the reasons already considered, not introduce a new unsupported judgement.

Conjunctions versus linking adverbs: why the grammar matters

A conjunction forms a grammatical link between words, phrases or clauses. And and but commonly coordinate similar grammatical units: “The room is quiet but small.” Because, although, if and when can introduce subordinate clauses: “We stayed home because the weather was poor.”

A linking adverb or discourse marker often connects meanings across clauses or sentences rather than functioning as the conjunction itself. “The room is quiet. However, it is small” is natural. In formal edited prose, “The room is quiet, however, it is small” is generally a comma splice. Write two sentences or a semicolon: “The room is quiet; however, it is small.”

Some linking expressions are prepositional. “Despite the cost” can precede a noun phrase; “although the cost was high” introduces a clause. Knowing these differences lets you use the phrase correctly instead of swapping connectors randomly.

The Cambridge Dictionary conjunctions guide distinguishes coordinating and subordinating forms, and the Cambridge guide to linking adverbs explains how adverbs such as however and therefore connect sentences.

Eight high-value contrasts that prevent mistakes

1. Because versus because of

Say “The meeting moved because the manager was unavailable” but “The meeting moved because of the manager’s absence.” The first is followed by a clause; the second by a noun phrase.

2. Although versus despite

“Although the task was difficult, we finished it” and “Despite the difficulty, we finished it” can communicate a similar contrast. “Despite it was difficult” is not the normal standard pattern. You could also say “Despite it being difficult …” in suitable contexts.

3. But versus however

“We need more time, but the client wants a quick result” joins two clauses. “We need more time. However, the client wants a quick result” uses a linking adverb to introduce the contrast across sentences.

4. So versus therefore

“The office closed, so we went home” is natural in everyday speech. “The office closed; therefore, we went home” may sound more formal and frames the outcome as a consequence. A formal word does not make a weak inference logically stronger.

5. If versus unless

“If the train is delayed, call me” means the delay triggers a request. “Call me unless the train is delayed” has a different meaning: the default request holds except when a delay occurs. Translate the complete condition, not just the single word.

6. When versus if

“When the meeting ends, call me” treats the ending as an expected event. “If the meeting ends early, call me” sets a more uncertain condition. The distinction can matter when arranging plans.

7. For example versus in other words

“For example” adds an instance. “In other words” restates an idea. If you use an example as though it were a definition, the reader may confuse one case with the whole category.

8. Since versus because

“Since the office is closed, we’ll return tomorrow” expresses a reason. “I’ve worked here since 2023” expresses time. Since is not always causal; the surrounding sentence decides its meaning.

Four original conversations that practise linking words

Dialogue 1: choosing a place

A: “This café is nearby, but it gets crowded.” B: “The other café is quieter. However, it’s more expensive.” A: “We could meet early so that we avoid the busiest time.” B: “That sounds reasonable, as long as it’s open.”

Each connector carries a different job: contrast, purpose and condition. Remove one and explain what relationship would be lost.

Dialogue 2: reporting a delay

A: “Why hasn’t the report been sent?” B: “The final figures weren’t available, so the review was delayed.” A: “Can we finish today?” B: “If the figures arrive by noon, we can check them. Otherwise, we’ll need a revised deadline.”

The reply is conditional. It does not promise completion without the necessary figures. Good vocabulary preserves the status of what is known and what remains uncertain.

Dialogue 3: giving directions

Visitor: “Should I turn before the bridge?” Local: “No. Go across the bridge, then turn left.” Visitor: “Should I continue until the traffic lights?” Local: “Yes, and check the sign there.”

Here, sequence and prepositions carry practical meaning. If a direction has real consequences, repeat it and check local signs rather than guessing.

Dialogue 4: comparing two options

A: “Option A is cheaper, whereas option B is faster.” B: “Although the cost matters, timing may be more important today.” A: “In that case, we should compare the exact arrival times before deciding.”

“In that case” is another useful discourse expression beyond the sixty-item list. The important skill is interpreting the decision’s reason, not displaying every connector you know.

A paragraph that improves when the logic improves

Weak paragraph: “The service is useful. Furthermore, it costs a lot. Therefore, people like it. However, it is helpful.”

The connectors sound formal, but the logic is weak. High cost does not by itself show that people like a service. “Furthermore” merely adds a point; it does not explain whether that point is supporting or opposing the earlier statement.

Improved: “The service is useful because it saves users time. However, it may be too expensive for some people. Therefore, its value depends on how frequently a person needs it and what alternatives are available.” This version shows a benefit, a limitation and a qualified conclusion.

Notice the words may and depends on. They prevent an unwarranted universal claim. A well-written paragraph does not have to use every type of connector.

A five-minute revision test for any article or email

Read your paragraph and label each sentence’s job: claim, reason, example, contrast, condition, next step. If a sentence has no clear job, clarify it before adding a transition.

Next, check the connector’s grammar. Does although introduce a clause? Is despite followed by a noun phrase or -ing construction? Are you joining two independent clauses with however using suitable punctuation?

Finally, check the truth of the connection. Does the evidence actually establish a cause? Are you describing a possibility as certain? Does “overall” summarise what your paragraph showed? Those questions turn vocabulary study into better reasoning.

A seven-day learning plan for linking words

Day 1 — additions: learn and, also, in addition, either … or and neither … nor. Join five real statements, then check that the grammatical units match.

Day 2 — reasons: contrast because, because of, therefore and as a result. Write two cause-and-effect sentences, checking whether the inference is justified.

Day 3 — contrast: practise but, although, however and despite. Write about two choices with different benefits.

Day 4 — time: describe a process with before, after, when, until, then and finally. Confirm the order and avoid accidental causal claims.

Day 5 — conditions: practise if, unless, as long as and in case. Explain one ordinary plan and one backup plan.

Day 6 — examples and explanation: use for example, such as, specifically and in other words. Check that your example is truly relevant.

Day 7 — transfer: write a fresh paragraph without a connector list. Mark which relationships are clear and which are confused. Revisit the weak expressions after a gap.

Twenty practice questions with answers

Choose an appropriate expression, then read the completed sentence aloud.

1. “We stayed home ___ it rained.” → because. 2. “We stayed home ___ the rain.” → because of. 3. “The price is low. ___, delivery is expensive.” → However. 4. “The room is small ___ quiet.” → but. 5. “___ the task was difficult, she completed it.” → Although. 6. “___ the difficulty, she completed it.” → Despite. 7. “The report is incomplete; ___, we cannot approve it.” → therefore. 8. “___ the figures are checked, send the summary.” → Once. 9. “Check the email ___ you send it.” → before. 10. “Wait ___ the doors open.” → until. 11. “The appointment is Friday ___ the schedule changes.” → unless. 12. “We’ll go ___ the weather is suitable.” → if. 13. “Bring a jacket ___ the weather becomes cold.” → in case. 14. “Write it down ___ you remember.” → so that. 15. “We offer two options, ___ in-person and online sessions.” → for example. 16. “We found one issue, ___ an incorrect date.” → specifically. 17. “Option A is quicker, ___ option B is cheaper.” → whereas. 18. “Both teams used checklists. ___, both reviewed the results.” → Similarly. 19. “The first task was completed. ___, the second task began.” → Subsequently. 20. “___, the proposal is useful but needs more evidence.” → Overall.

The key chooses a natural answer for the stated meaning. Some questions permit other connectors with a different structure or nuance. The best test is explaining why the relationship fits.

Common linking-word mistakes

“Because it rained, so we stayed home.” In ordinary standard English, choose either “Because it rained, we stayed home” or “It rained, so we stayed home.”
“Despite of the delay …” Use “Despite the delay …” or “In spite of the delay …”.
“However” as a direct substitute for “but” between two simple phrases. Use appropriate structure: “small but comfortable”.
Adding “therefore” without a valid inference. A word cannot turn an unsupported conclusion into evidence.
Using “since” ambiguously. It can indicate time or reason; clarify if the reader could mistake one for the other.
Using “unless” as though it means “if”. The default outcome changes.
Using “for example” for a definition. An example is only one instance.
Overloading a paragraph with transitions. Use only those that help a reader follow genuine relationships.

Frequently asked questions

### What are linking words in English? They are words or expressions that connect ideas by addition, contrast, cause, sequence, condition, example and other relationships.

### Are all linking words conjunctions? No. Some are conjunctions, but others are linking adverbs, prepositions or fixed multiword expressions. Their grammar differs.

### What’s the difference between because and because of? Because typically introduces a clause; because of introduces a noun phrase or equivalent complement.

### Is however the same as but? Both can signal contrast, but but is a coordinating conjunction and however is often a linking adverb with different punctuation and positioning.

### What does unless mean? Unless introduces a negative condition or exception. It is not automatically interchangeable with if.

### Can I start a sentence with but or and? Yes, in many kinds of standard English. Formal style may favour other constructions, but a blanket prohibition is inaccurate.

### How do I learn connectors quickly? Group by logical job, practise accurate example sentences, and retrieve a connector after reading the meaning or situation.

### Do sophisticated linking words improve essay scores? Not automatically. Clear reasoning, appropriate vocabulary, grammar and meeting the task requirements matter more than using rare transitions.

### How many linking words should I learn each day? Use a manageable number that you can apply accurately. A few reliable connectors are more useful than a large unreviewed list.

### How do I avoid repeating however? First ask whether you need a contrast marker at all. If you do, consider but, although, whereas or a sentence rewrite that accurately preserves the relationship.

References and next useful route

For accurate grammar, consult the Cambridge Dictionary guide to conjunctions and linking words, its linking adverbs reference and the British Council contrasting ideas exercise. They explain structures and differences that cannot be reduced to a synonym list.

For longer writing, use English Vocabulary for Essay Writing. For word partnerships, see Common English Collocations. For questions and real exchanges, continue to Daily English Conversation Practice and the Vocabulary Learning Hub.

Start now: explain one decision with a reason, contrast and next step. Choose the connectors after you are clear about the logic. Tomorrow, explain a different decision using the same patterns without reading the examples.

How to Learn English Vocabulary Quickly | Linking Words and Conjunctions