Linking words show the relationships between ideas. Linking words serve different functions, such as to compare ideas or to give examples, and can go at the start or in the middle of a sentence. Check a dictionary like the Cambridge Dictionary to see examples of how to use a particular linking word.
The following table shows some common linking words and example sentences:
Function
|
Linking words
|
Example
|
Addition (to add an idea)
|
also
furthermore
moreover
additionally
|
Exam performance is also influenced by personal factors, such as anxiety and confidence.
|
Cause and effect (to show that one thing is a result of another)
|
so
therefore
as a result
consequently
accordingly because
|
The defendant was intoxicated and therefore not fully aware of his actions.
|
Contrast (to show differences)
|
in contrast
however
whereas
while
conversely
|
In 2016, the proportion of Australian citizens born overseas was approximately 29%. However, this proportion varied between states, with just 13% of Tasmanian residents born overseas, compared with 31% in Victoria (ABS, 2021).
|
Comparison (to show similarities)
|
similarly
likewise
in the same way
|
In the global response to COVID-19, WHO has repeatedly urged that countries must work together as one global family to address the impacts of the pandemic. Similarly, the global health threat of climate change requires global collaboration, increased finance, and the equitable sharing of solutions (World Health Organization, 2021).
|
Definition
|
is defined as
that is
|
A migrant is defined as a “person who was born overseas whose usual residence is Australia” (ABS, 2018).
|
Example
|
for example
for instance
such as
including
|
Adolescents spend hours per day browsing social media applications, such as Facebook, TikTok and Instagram.
|
Sequence or list (to indicate the order of events, or to separate ideas)
|
firstly
secondly
thirdly
first
then
|
There are several issues arising from this case. Firstly, the company failed to provide a working environment that was safe and free of risks to health.
|
Summary
|
in conclusion
in summary
to conclude
overall
|
Overall, females reported higher levels of pain post-surgery than men.
|
See the Word and PDF documents below for a downloadable version of the common linking words.