What are linking words, and how do they work?
As we develop with our English, we feel the need to speak like we do in our native language. That means efficiency, specific vocabulary, and complex sentences so we can express ourselves clearly.
It’s not a case of saying what you want, but EXACTLY what you want.
Here is a simple example to outline the message.
I don’t like pizza, but my brother does.
The linking word (BUT) is very basic, common, and found in the lower levels of English. As I said before, when we develop through the levels, we require better and more specific vocabulary that allows us to be more precise with what we are saying.
I don’t like pizza, however, my brother does.
A clear example of B1 vs B2 level of understanding and use of vocabulary.
There Are So Many..
Yes. You are right. There are so many linking words available to us. Some are used in a negative context, while others are used in a positive context whereby the direct side-effect of using linking words in your writing or speaking is the ability to be more efficient and fluent.
look at the last sentence.. two linking words — while, whereby — and look at the efficiency and volume of information that has been delivered.
There are basic linking words for which we need to find more advanced and appropriate synonyms in order to construct better quality complex sentences and paragraphs.
Basic Linking Words
For the lower levels of English, we tend to be satisfied with communicating with basic language and linking words.
Here are some of the basic linking words we should try to avoid using, although we should not eliminate them from our vocabulary since they are, at times, quite appropriate.
- and
- but
- because
- too
- also
- because
- because of
- and more..
So, in order to speak and write better English, we ought to adopt new vocabulary and linking words that serve the same purpose as our basic options so as to help us deliver a more structured and developed English.
More Developed Linking Words
All linking words have a purpose. There is a reason why we have selected a specific word ant another. They help keep the sentence in context and promote fluency. Here are some examples of more elaborate linking words that can really help you on your quest to speak efficiently, fluently, and with a level of complexity.
Giving Examples
As you can see
For instance
For example
As an example
Namely
Be sure to move where you use your linking word in sentences. This will help bring some colour to your English and, perhaps, allow you to enjoy English more.
Here is an example:
Looking at the graph, as you can see, our sales are improving.
As you can see in the graph, our sales are improving.
Two ways of saying the same thing. Which is more efficient and which version do you prefer?
Adding Information
The most common linking word for this is and.
Here are some options to improve the quality of your English when you want to provide further information.
- as well as
- furthermore
- in addition to
- besides
- also…not only
- apart from
We spoke about improving the economy and creating jobs.
We spoke, not only, about improving the economy, but also about creating jobs.
Notice how inverting the linking words has allowed us to become quite formal and our speech is appropriate to the conversation in terms of formality.
In addition to discussing home improvements, we discussed personal loans.
We discussed home improvements in addition to personal loans.
Communicating A Result Or A Consequence
During our conversations, we often find ourselves having to explain the outcome of a situation. The most common way to do this is with and and so.
Try these substitutions as you develop your English.
- as a result
- hence
- that is why
- therefore
- this means that
- meaning that
Our teacher was sick yesterday and/so our lessons were all cancelled.
Our teacher was sick yesterday meaning that our lessons we are all cancelled yesterday.
Linking words are extremely useful to express yourself with clarity and precision meaning that you can say exactly what you want to say.
Jamie burnt the chicken in the oven, so we had to go to McDonald’s for lunch.
Jamie burnt the chicken in the oven, hence our lunch in McDonald’s.
Conclusion
In summary, there are many ways to say the same thing in English and it all depends on our knowledge of linking words and the grammar that is affected upon use of these words.
There are many more functions and purposes for linking words like:
- summarising
- providing a sequence of ideas
- comparing ideas
For now, incorporate the one or two that you like and become efficient, fluent, and more advanced with your use of English.
