Cohesion and Clarity
12- 35
Transitional Words
English has a huge variety of transitional words. The categories and examples below, adapted from Purdue University’s Online Writing Lab,* are grouped according to general meaning. Words within the same group are not usually interchangeable: their grammar may vary, and there may be slight differences in meaning. If you are at all unsure about how to use a particular word, check its meaning and usage in a good dictionary.
To add — and, again, and then, besides, equally important, finally, furthermore, too, next, last, moreover, in addition, first (second, etc.) , not only…but also
To compare — similarly, likewise, as before
To contrast — in contrast, whereas
To show a condition — if, whether, in such a case
To show purpose — to, in order to, so that
To prove — because, for the same reason, furthermore, moreover, indeed, in fact, thus
To show exception — yet, still, however, nevertheless, in spite of, despite, sometimes, although
To show time — soon, after a few hours, finally, then, later, previously, first/second, next, immediately
To repeat — as noted previously, in brief, as mentioned before
To emphasize — obviously, in fact, indeed, naturally, without a doubt, certainly, that is
To show sequence — first/second/last, next, then, after, afterward, subsequently, finally, previously, before this, simultaneously, hence, soon To give an example — for example, for instance, in this case, in another case, in this situation, to illustrate, specifically To summarize or conclude — to conclude, therefore, thus, accordingly, as a result, to summarize, in conclusion, in summary
*Adapted from the Purdue University Online Writing Lab: www.owl.english.purdue.edu/handouts/ general/gl_transition.html
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