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SpanishHow Linking Words Can Make You A Better Speaker
Want to learn English like a native speaker? It’s easier than you think! The first step is mastering linking words. Linking words are phrases and clauses that connect two sentences or thoughts together.
Linking Words: What They Actually Mean
When it comes to linking words, most people know a few basic ones, such as “and”, “but”, and “or”. However, there are many other linking words that can be extremely useful in making your speeches and writing more cohesive and effective.
Here is a list of some common linking words, along with an explanation of what they actually mean:
And: Used to connect two ideas or pieces of information that are related.
But: Used to introduce a contrasting idea or piece of information.
Or: Used to present two alternative options.
However: Used to introduce a contrasting idea or piece of information.
Moreover: Used to introduce an additional idea or piece of information that supports the previous one.
Furthermore: Used to introduce an even more supportive or significant idea or piece of information.
I
n addition: Used to introduce an extra idea or piece of information. Similarly: Used to draw a comparison between two ideas or pieces of information.
Likewise: Can be used in the same way as “similarly”.
Unlike: Introduces a contrast between two ideas or pieces of information.
On the other hand: Another way of introducing a contrast between two ideas or pieces of information. Conversely: Another way of introducing a contrast between two ideas or pieces of information; often used at the beginning of a sentence.
How to Use Linking Words in Conversation
If you want to sound more like a native speaker, it’s important to use linking words in conversation. Linking words help connect your ideas and make your speech sound more fluid. Here are some useful linking words to use in conversation:
– To introduce an idea: first, second, third; next; finally– To give examples: for instance, for example, such as– To show contrast: however, on the other hand, alternatively– To show consequence: therefore, as a result, consequently– To emphasize a point: indeed, in fact, surely
Remember to vary your linking words so that you don’t sound repetitive. And pay attention to the context of the conversation to choose the right linking word.
Here’s an example conversation using some linking words:
A: I’m thinking of going on a trip to Europe.B: That sounds like a great idea! What countries do you want to visit?A: Well, first I was thinking of going to France. You know, to see the Eiffel Tower and visit Paris. But then I thought it might be fun to go to Italy too. You know, to explore Rome and eat lots of delicious food!B: Yeah, that does sound like a lot of fun. Have you ever been to Europe before?A: No, I haven’t. But I’ve always wanted to go.B: Well, if you’re looking for more travel inspiration, I can give you some ideas for other countries too.
How to use linking words in public speakingWhen you’re giving a presentation or speech, it’s important to use linking words to connect your ideas and help your audience follow your line of thinking. Linking words can also make your talk more dynamic and engaging.
Here are some tips on how to use linking words in public speaking:
- Use linking words at the beginning of your talk to introduce the main points you’ll be discussing. For example, “Firstly, I’d like to talk about…”
- Use linking words throughout your talk to link different ideas and keep the flow going. For example, “This leads me on to my next point…”
- Use linking words at the end of your talk to summarise the main points and leave your audience with a strong conclusion. For example, “In conclusion, I’d like to say…”
Remember, using linking words is just one way to make your public speaking more effective. Practice using them in your next presentation or speech and see how they can help you deliver your message more effectively.
Why You Should Include Linking Words in Your English Learner Material
If you’re an English learner, chances are you’ve been told time and again to use linking words in your speech and writing. But what are linking words, exactly? And why are they so important?
Linking words are simply words that help to connect one idea to another. They can be used to join two or more clauses or sentences, or to connect two or more ideas within a single clause.
Why are linking words so important? Well, for one thing, they can help you to better express your ideas. Linking words can help you to organize your thoughts and to make sure that your listener or reader understands the connections between different ideas.
In addition, using linking words can make your speech or writing sound more natural and fluent. If you just pile up a bunch of ideas without any connection between them, it will be hard for your listener or reader to follow along. But if you use linking words judiciously, it will be much easier for them to understand what you’re saying or writing.
So next time you’re preparing material for English learners, be sure to include plenty of linking words!
Thank you for reading!
This was written by me. Bryce Purnell, founder of Learn Laugh Speak.
Check out more on my Medium or send me an email if you’re ever curious about anything at all