Conjunctions & Linking Words

Intermediate · Clauses

Linking words are the signposts of English. They connect your ideas and show the relationship between them: adding, contrasting, giving reasons, or showing results. Good linking words are what make writing flow instead of feeling like a list.

They fall into clear groups by meaning, and each group can be used to join ideas smoothly.

How to build it

idea + linking word + idea (and / but / because / so / although / however ...)

Rules & examples

1. Adding: and, also, in addition, moreover, furthermore.

   To pile up ideas that point the same way.

   • She sings and dances.
   • It's cheap. Moreover, it's reliable.
2. Contrast: but, however, although, even though, whereas, despite.

   To show a surprise or an opposite idea. Note: "despite" is followed by a noun/-ing.

   • Although it rained, we went out.
   • Despite the rain, we went out.
3. Reason & result: because, since, as, so, therefore, as a result.

   "because/since" give the reason; "so/therefore" give the result.

   • I stayed home because I was sick.
   • It was late, so we left.
4. Purpose: to, in order to, so that.

   To explain the goal of an action.

   • I saved money so that I could travel.
5. Sequence: first, then, after that, meanwhile, finally.

   To order steps or events.

   • First, boil the water. Then, add the tea.

Tips to remember

• One connector per relationship: do not pair "although" with "but". Use only one.
• "despite/in spite of" + noun/-ing; "although" + full clause. "Despite the rain" = "Although it rained".

Common mistakes

• ✗ Although it was late, but we continued. → ✓ Although it was late, we continued. — Do not use "although" and "but" together — one contrast word is enough.
• ✗ Despite of the rain, we left. → ✓ Despite the rain, we left. — "Despite" is not followed by "of" (but "in spite of" is).