THE KEY TO FLUENT ENGLISH
Hey learners! As you may know, in learning any language, fluency and cohesion in writing and speaking are essential to communicate our ideas effectively. To achieve fluent English, there is a crucial tool that is the speech connectors, also known as ‘linking words‘.
These words or linking words are the glue that binds our ideas together, allowing us to construct logical and well-structured speeches and texts. Today, we'll explore how the proper use of speech connectors can transform your English.
BUT... WHAT EXACTLY ARE LINKING WORDS?
Linking words are words or phrases that serve to join sentences and paragraphs, showing the relationship between ideas. They can indicate addition, contrast, cause and effect, sequence and more. Their proper use not only helps you become more fluent in English, but also helps you organize your thoughts more clearly.
ADDITION
To add information:
And, Moreover, Furthermore, In addition, Also, Besides
CONTRAST
To show opposition:
But, However, On the other hand, Although, Yet, Nevertheless
- And: «I want to learn Spanish and French.»
- Moreover: «The plan is sound; moreover, it’s innovative.»
- Furthermore: «He’s not qualified for the position. Furthermore, he doesn’t have the necessary experience.»
- In addition: «In addition to her qualifications, she has excellent interpersonal skills.»
- Also: «She also speaks three languages fluently.»
- Besides: «Besides the main course, we will also serve appetizers.»
- But: «I wanted to buy the shirt, but it was too expensive.»
- However: «The movie was criticized by many; however, it was a box office success.»
- On the other hand: «He loves traveling to cold climates. On the other hand, his wife prefers the beach.»
- Although: «Although it was raining, we decided to go hiking.»
- Yet: «She’s a great team player, yet she works well independently.»
- Nevertheless: «It was a well-known fact; nevertheless, it was ignored by many.»
CAUSE
To explain reasons or results:
Because, Therefore, Thus, As a result, Consequently, Due to
SEQUENCE
To organize events or steps:
First, Second, Then, Next, Finally, Afterward
- Because: «I stayed home because I was sick.»
- Therefore: «He didn’t study for the exam; therefore, he didn’t pass.»
- Thus: «The company failed to invest in new technology, thus losing its competitive edge.»
- As a result: «The road was icy, as a result, the school was closed.»
- Consequently: «He was late to the meeting, consequently, he missed the main presentation.»
- Due to: «The match was postponed due to rain.»
- First: «First, preheat the oven to 350 degrees.»
- Second: «Second, mix the dry ingredients.»
- Then: «Then, add the eggs and milk.»
- Next: «Next, pour the mixture into a baking pan.»
- Finally: «Finally, bake for 20 minutes.»
- Afterward: «Afterward, let the cake cool before serving.»
EXAMPLES
To give clear examples:
For example, For instance, Such as, Like
CONCLUSION
To summarize or conclude ideas:
In conclusion, To sum up, In summary, All in all
- For example: «There are many ways to reduce waste. For example, you can recycle paper and plastics.»
- For instance: «Some fruits, for instance, oranges and lemons, are rich in vitamin C.»
- Such as: «I love tropical fruits, such as mangoes and pineapples.»
- Like: «Activities like jogging and swimming are great for your health.»
- In conclusion: «In conclusion, the benefits of exercise are numerous.»
- To sum up: «To sum up, we need to take immediate action to protect the environment.»
- In summary: «In summary, the proposed solution addresses all our main concerns.»
- All in all: «All in all, it was a fantastic vacation.»
HOW DO WE USE THEM?
1.- KNOW ITS
MEANING AND USE
It is essential to understand the meaning and function of each connector in order to use it correctly.
2.- PRACTICE WITH EXAMPLES
When reading or listening to English, pay attention to how connectors are used. Try to create your own sentences using different connectors.
3.- DO NOT OVERLOAD THEM
Although they are useful, using too many connectors can make your text or speech seem stilted or artificial. Use only what is necessary to maintain cohesion and flow.
4.- REVIEW THEM IN YOUR TEXTS
When writing in English, review your drafts for opportunities to improve cohesion with speech connectors.
CONCLUSION
Mastering the use of linking words is essential for any student of English who aspires to communicate clearly and effectively. By integrating these elements into your speaking and writing, you will not only improve your fluency, but also enhance your ability to express complex and qualified ideas.
Remember, constant practice is the key to successfully incorporating these connectors into your English, and if you want to continue learning English, I invite you to check out the rest of the posts on grammar, vocabulary and English curiosities in this link.
English 
Spanish