Transition Words and Linking Phrases
Transition words and phrases are the glue that holds paragraphs and arguments together. They signal the logical relationship between ideas — whether you are adding information, contrasting, giving examples, or drawing conclusions.
Transitions by Function
| Function | Transitions |
|---|---|
| Adding information | furthermore, in addition, moreover, also, besides |
| Contrasting | however, nevertheless, on the other hand, yet, although, while |
| Giving examples | for example, for instance, such as, namely, to illustrate |
| Showing cause/effect | therefore, thus, as a result, consequently, hence, so |
| Sequencing | first, then, next, subsequently, finally, meanwhile |
| Emphasising | indeed, in fact, above all, especially, notably |
| Conceding | admittedly, granted, of course, even though |
| Concluding | in conclusion, to summarise, overall, in short |
Between Sentences
Transitions at the start of a sentence link it to the previous idea:
Sales declined in Q1. However, the company recovered strongly in Q2.
The app received poor reviews initially. Nevertheless, downloads increased month-on-month.
Exercise improves mood. Furthermore, it reduces the risk of chronic disease.
Within Sentences
Transitions can also work inside a sentence using conjunctions:
Although the project was delayed, it came in under budget.
She applied for the role even though she lacked one key qualification.
The results were positive; nevertheless, further testing is required.
A semicolon before a transition (e.g., ; however,) is grammatically correct and can add variety. A comma alone before however is incorrect: Results improved, however costs rose.
Avoiding Overuse
Using the same transitions repeatedly weakens your writing. Vary your choices:
| Instead of always using | Try |
|---|---|
| however | nevertheless, that said, yet, on the other hand |
| therefore | thus, as a result, consequently, hence |
| also | furthermore, in addition, moreover, what is more |
| for example | for instance, to illustrate, such as, namely |
Starting too many consecutive sentences with a transition word creates a mechanical, list-like feel. Mix transitions with other linking strategies such as pronouns (this, these results) and repetition of key terms.
Coherence vs. Cohesion
- Cohesion = mechanical links between sentences (transitions, pronouns, repeated words)
- Coherence = logical flow of ideas (the argument makes sense)
Transitions improve cohesion, but they cannot fix incoherent thinking. A paragraph needs to have a logical structure first; transitions then make that structure visible to the reader.