Linking words for essays: 25 connectors with examples

B1–C125 words

Linking words are the signposts of an essay: they tell the reader whether the next sentence agrees, contradicts or concludes. Used correctly, they make an average argument read like a well-organised one.

Where you will use it: Essays, IELTS Writing and reports.

Linking words for essays — The word list

Word	Meaning
however	Introduces a contrast.“The cost is high; however, the benefits are clear.”
moreover	Adds a further point.“Moreover, the method is cheaper.”
therefore	Introduces a logical result.“Demand fell; therefore, prices dropped.”
whereas	Compares two different things.“Cities grew, whereas villages shrank.”
for instance	Introduces an example.“Some cities, for instance Oslo, banned cars.”
in addition	Adds information.“In addition, staff received training.”
on the other hand	Presents the opposite view.“On the other hand, taxes would rise.”
as a result	Shows a consequence.“As a result, waiting times fell.”
despite	In spite of something.“Despite the rain, the event went ahead.”
in particular	Focuses on one item.“Young people in particular benefit.”
overall	Considering everything.“Overall, the policy succeeded.”
to conclude	Signals the final paragraph.“To conclude, both factors matter.”
although	Introduces a fact that contrasts with another.“Although costs rose, demand remained strong.”
because of	Introduces the reason for something.“Flights were cancelled because of fog.”
consequently	Introduces a result.“Funding fell; consequently, the project ended.”
firstly	Introduces the first point.“Firstly, the plan is affordable.”
similarly	Shows that two things are alike.“Similarly, younger users preferred mobile access.”
in comparison	Introduces a comparison.“In comparison, the second method was faster.”
in other words	Restates an idea more clearly.“In other words, the system needs replacing.”
for this reason	Introduces a consequence of the previous point.“Demand is rising; for this reason, capacity must grow.”
provided that	Introduces a necessary condition.“The plan will work provided that funding continues.”
subsequently	Introduces something that happened later.“The rule was subsequently changed.”
indeed	Emphasises or confirms a point.“The task is difficult; indeed, many give up.”
by contrast	Highlights a strong difference.“By contrast, rural prices remained stable.”
in summary	Introduces a brief final overview.“In summary, the benefits exceed the costs.”

Useful learning tips

Learn in small groupsTake five words at a time and review them before adding more.
Say the examples aloudReading each sentence aloud connects spelling, sound and meaning.
Write your own sentenceUse each word in a true sentence about your life or work.

How to study this list

Add five or six of these words a day rather than the whole list at once, keep the example sentence on the card, and review them when they come due. WordNest schedules each word across seven growing intervals — same day, then 1, 3, 7, 14, 30 and 60 days — so the list is still with you months later. Read how spaced repetition works if you want the reasoning behind those numbers.

Studying linking words for essays pairs well with our academic English vocabulary, IELTS vocabulary list and business email phrases, or browse all free English word lists.

Related guides

Questions about this list

How can I practise Linking words for essays?

Start with five words and say each example aloud. Then recall the word from its meaning and review it over several days.

Where can I use Linking words for essays?

Essays, IELTS Writing and reports.

How many words are in this list?

This list contains 25 English words with definitions and example sentences. It is a starting set, not a complete syllabus.

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