What are Linking Words?

Linking words, also known as transition words, are words and phrases like however or in addition that connect clauses, sentences, paragraphs, or other words. The purpose of linking words (which are different from linking verbs) is to make communication smoother and more logical when moving from one idea to another.

Example?

She was running late. She stopped for coffee.

These two sentences are correct in their grammar, but they are a little difficult to read. Logically, they seem contradictory—if she was late, why did she stop for coffee? 

Let’s see how those sentences read with a linking word.

She was running late. However, she stopped for coffee.

The ideas are the same as in the first example, but the linking word however helps transition between them. It signals to the reader that the topic is changing so it doesn’t surprise them.

How to use linking words?

Linking words generally come before a new idea as a way to introduce it. This includes new clauses, new sentences, and new paragraphs, as well as standalone words and phrases.

When a linking word or phrase begins a sentence, clarity is usually helped if you place a comma after it.

Peanut butter and jelly sandwiches contain a lot of healthy nutrients. Moreover, they’re delicious!

When should you use linking words?

When should you use linking words?

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PRACTICE 1

ََFILL IN EACH GAP WITH AN APPROPRIATE WORD FROM THE LIST.   

PRACTICE 2

JOIN THE PAIRS OF SENTENCES WITH THE LINKING WORDS GIVEN.

PRACTICE 3

WHICH OF THE GIVEN ANSWERS IS THE CORRECT ONE?

PRACTICE 4

TO WHICH CATEGORY DO THE GIVEN LINKING WORDS BELONG TO?