Sentence connectors usually connect two sentences and highlight the relationship between them, improving the overall syntax and flow of your writing. Discover how to use them effectively with detailed rules and examples.
For more related resources, explore our guide on Linking Words: List of Sentence Connectors in English with Examples! to further improve your Sentence: Definition, Types, Examples and Structures skills.
What Are Sentence Connectors and How Do They Work?
The purpose for which a sentence connector is used is given with some examples below to help you master English grammar rules and sentence structure.
1. To Show Addition
Words used to show addition:
- and
- also
- besides
- furthermore
- moreover
- in addition
Examples:
This food is very tasty. It is also nutritious. Mina is pretty. Besides. she is intelligent. This house is very old. Moreover, the price is too high.
2. To Show Contrast
Words used to show contrast:
- but
- however
- nevertheless
- unlike
- on the other hand
- on the contrary
- Instead
Examples:
I like dogs. But I hate cats.
Hamid is not foolish. On the contrary, he is very clever. He doesn't study at all. Instead, he sits and day-dreams.
3. To Show Comparison
Words used to show comparison:
- likewise
- similarly
Examples:
A garrulous person is seldom loved by others. Likewise, a reticent person is not always well liked. Parents love their children. Similarly, children love their parents.
4. To Show Emphasis
Words used to show emphasis:
- In fact
- certainly
- indeed
- as a matter of fact
Examples:
Though Mina is a proud girl. everyone likes her. In fact, she is often sorrounded by a number of young men. I seldom travel. As a matter of fact I hate travelling.
5. To Introduce an Example
Words used to introduce an example:
- for example
- for instance
- that is
- in other words
Examples:
Karim has no manners at all. For example, he cut me dead in the street.
Money cannot insure happiness. For instance, although Mr Hakim is rich, he is very unhappy.
6. To Introduce a Result
Words used to introduce a result:
- so
- therefore
- consequently
- as a result
- hence
- accordingly
Examples:
The weather was bad. So, I stayed indoors.
Hasina was ill. Therefore, she was absent from school yesterday. He did not pay the telephone bill. As a result, his telephone was disconnected.
7. To Introduce a Conclusion
Words used to introduce a conclusion:
- in short
- in conclusion
- to sum up
- finally
- in a word
Examples:
Mina did not answer my letter; she refused to talk to me when I called on her. In short, she behaved rudely. Kamal is handsome: he is rich: he has a beautiful wife. In a word, he is very fortunate.
8. To Show a Sequence
Words used to show a sequence:
- first
- second
- next
Examples:
If you want to do well in your examination, you have to do these things: First, you must attend your classes regularly. Second, you must do your homework. Third, you must review your notes frequently.
Key Takeaways
- Sentence connectors highlight the logical relationship between two separate sentences.
- Different categories of connectors fulfill distinct functions like addition, contrast, comparison, emphasis, examples, results, conclusions, and sequences.
- Proper understanding of these terms improves English grammar fluency and writing style.
Quick Practice
Test your understanding of these rules! Write your own sentences using a sentence connector for addition and another for contrast in the comments below.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the definition of a sentence connector?
Sentence connectors are words or phrases used to connect two sentences together while clearly highlighting the logical relationship between them.
How do sentence connectors improve writing?
They establish smooth transitions, clarify meaning, and help readers understand how ideas relate to one another in terms of addition, contrast, results, or sequence.
Can sentence connectors be used at the beginning of a sentence?
Yes, sentence connectors frequently start a sentence to link it back to the preceding thought, often followed by a comma.