Discourse markers: Linking words
Learn how to connect your ideas fluently with linking words like moreover, however, therefore, and although.
- check_circleI can use linking words to add information and express contrast.
- check_circleI can connect causes to their results.
- check_circleI can structure my spoken and written English clearly.
Discover
Meet today's English in a real situation — no rules yet. Read it once and try to guess the pattern in the words in bold. Underlined words open a short definition.
A discussion between two colleagues about working from home.
Mark: Did you see the new company policy? They want us back in the office three days a week.
Sarah: I did. It’s frustrating. Working from home gives me so much more focus. Furthermore, I save two hours of commuting every day.
Mark: I completely agree. However, management thinks that we are losing our team spirit. They argue that spontaneous collaboration only happens in person.
Sarah: That’s true to some extent. Nevertheless, we’ve accomplished all our project goals remotely this year.
Mark: I pointed that out in the meeting. Although productivity is up, the CEO feels that newer employees are struggling to integrate into the company culture.
Sarah: I can see that. Consequently, I think a hybrid model might be a reasonable compromise. We should organize specific office days for team building.
Mark: Exactly. Therefore, let’s propose that our specific department comes in on Tuesdays and Thursdays. That way, we can synchronize our schedules and actually work together when we are there.
Learn
Now the rules behind what you just saw — explained simply, with examples. Underlined words open a short definition — hover on desktop, tap on a phone.
Discourse markers, or linking words, are essential at the B2 level. They help you connect sentences and ideas, making your English sound fluent and structured.
1. Adding Information
To add an idea that supports your previous statement, you can use words like moreover, furthermore, or in addition.
She is a brilliant software engineer. Moreover, she has excellent communication skills.
Moreover is mostly used in formal contexts or writing. In spoken English, we often just use “besides” or “what’s more”.
2. Expressing Contrast
When you want to show a difference or opposing idea, you can use however, nevertheless, although, or on the other hand.
He studied very hard for the exam. However, he didn’t pass.
Common Mistake: Using a comma right after “although”.
- Incorrect:
Although, it was raining, we went for a walk. - Correct: Although it was raining, we went for a walk.
However and nevertheless are usually followed by a comma. They are often placed at the beginning of a new sentence.
3. Showing Cause and Effect
When one event causes another, use therefore, consequently, or as a result.
The company lost millions last year. Consequently, they had to close several stores.
Consequently shows a direct result and is very useful in business or academic English.
- Adding info: moreover, furthermore, in addition.
- Contrast: however, nevertheless, although, on the other hand.
- Result: therefore, consequently, as a result.
- Punctuation: Although does NOT take a comma immediately after it. However usually takes a comma.
Practice
Try it yourself. You'll see right away whether you got it right, plus a short explanation of why.
Use It
Now make the language yours in a real task. Use the prompt below — the editor keeps a simple word count, and nothing is saved or graded.
Before you finish — be honest. Can you do these now?