Do you want to sound more fluent when speaking English? If so, it is important to know how to use linking words correctly.
Linking words are words and phrases used to connect ideas and show relationships between them. When used correctly, these words can make your conversations flow more naturally and help keep your listener’s attention.
Learning how to use linking words can be beneficial for any English learner, so read on to learn more about this important skill!
The Different Types of Linking Words
One of the most important aspects of speaking in English is learning to use linking words correctly. Linking words are words and phrases used to connect or combine ideas, clauses and sentences.
These words serve as a bridge that brings together two different parts of a sentence, making them flow more smoothly. They help listeners comprehend ideas more easily and help speakers maintain the momentum of their speech.
There are various types of linking words that can be used depending on the context. The most common ones include coordinating conjunctions, subordinating conjunctions, transitional phrases, relative pronouns and adverbs.
Coordinating conjunctions connect two independent clauses in a sentence.
They include words such as ‘and’, ‘but’, ‘or’, ‘for’, ‘nor’, ‘so’ and ‘yet’. For example: “I like to cook, but I don’t like to clean”.
Subordinating conjunctions connect a subordinate clause to an independent clause in a sentence. Examples of subordinating conjunctions include ‘because’, ‘although’, ‘as’, ‘if’, ‘when’ and ‘unless’.
For example:
“I will go to the store if I have time”.
Transitional phrases help to move from one topic to another or one idea to another. They include words and phrases such as ‘furthermore’, ‘in conclusion’, ‘on the other hand’, ‘to sum up’ and ‘after all’.
For example:
“I really like this restaurant; furthermore, it has great customer service”.
Relative pronouns introduce subordinate clauses in a sentence and typically begin with words such as ‘that’, ‘which’, ‘who’ or ‘where’. For example: “The restaurant, which serves excellent food, is my favorite”.
Finally, adverbs link one idea to another within a sentence. Adverbs usually end in -ly such as ‘however’, ‘consequently’, ‘therefore’ and ‘nevertheless’.
For example:
“The restaurant was busy; nevertheless, I was able to find a table”.
The Different Functions of Linking Words
Linking words can be used for a variety of purposes in English.
They are especially helpful when speaking and writing because they make it easier to flow from one idea to the next.
Here are some of the most common functions of linking words:
- To add information: Linking words like “besides”, “in addition”, “also”, and “furthermore” can be used to add more information to a sentence.
- To contrast ideas: Using words like “however”, “on the other hand”, “but”, and “nevertheless” can be used to express contrasting ideas.
- To give an example: Words like “for example”, “specifically”, and “namely” can be used to provide examples of an idea or point.
- To summarize: Linking words like “in conclusion”, “in summary”, and “overall” can be used to wrap up a discussion or speech.
- To emphasize: By using words like “especially”, “in particular”, and “particularly” you can draw attention to a certain point or idea.
By knowing how to use linking words correctly you can ensure that your conversations and speeches are cohesive and effective. With practice, you will be able to quickly transition from one idea to the next and keep your listeners engaged.
Practice Exercises with Linking Words
Practicing with linking words is a great way to improve your English speaking skills.
Here are some tips for practice and exercises you can do to help improve your use of linking words:
- Speak in full sentences and phrases when using linking words. This will help you remember how to use them correctly in conversations.
- Listen to native English speakers and note how they use linking words in their conversations. Try to mimic their sentence structure and flow when practicing.
- Practice using linking words in different contexts. For example, try using them when telling stories, giving presentations, and having conversations.
- Create a list of linking words and keep it handy so you can refer to it often when practicing.
- Use online resources to find more practice exercises and activities. There are many websites, apps, and videos available that provide excellent resources for learning about and practicing with linking words.
By practicing with linking words and taking the time to learn their functions and usage, you can become a master of English conversation!
Learn English Right with Learn Laugh Speak
At Learn Laugh Speak, we offer a comprehensive digital courseware that is designed to help you learn English the right way. Our 33,000 lesson strong library contains content to help you become fluent in the language.
Using our platform, you can learn how to use linking words correctly to construct meaningful conversations. You will get an understanding of the different types of linking words and how they are used in English. You will also get an understanding of the different functions of linking words and how they can be used to make conversations flow more easily.
Furthermore, you can practice your skills with our interactive exercises. These exercises are specifically designed to help you practice using linking words correctly. This way, you will be able to understand the proper context in which each word should be used.
Finally, you can take advantage of our live chat support system which provides round-the-clock assistance from Native English teachers.
Learning English can be difficult, but Learn Laugh Speak makes it easy. We provide comprehensive digital courseware to help you learn English the right way – with linking words. With our platform, you can become proficient in the language in no time!
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