Linking words

Cheat sheetsGrammar · Quick reference

Connect ideas of addition, reason, result, contrast and purpose.

Use simple connectors to join related ideas and show what happened next.

Connector	Meaning or pattern	Example
and	Add a similar idea	We bought bread and made lunch.
also	Add another point; often before the main verb	She also speaks French.
first / then / finally	Put events in order	First, mix the flour. Then, add water.

Distinguish why something happens from what happens as a result.

Connector	Followed by	Example
because	A clause	We stayed in because it rained.
because of	A noun or -ing form	We stayed in because of the rain.
so	A result clause	It rained, so we stayed in.
therefore	A new sentence or clause; more formal	It rained. Therefore, we stayed in.
to / in order to	Base verb showing purpose	I called to ask a question.
so that	A clause showing purpose	I called so that she would know.

Some contrast words take a clause; others take a noun or -ing form.

Connector	Followed by	Example
but	A contrasting clause	It was cold, but we went out.
although / even though	A clause	Although it was cold, we went out.
despite / in spite of	A noun or -ing form	Despite the cold, we went out.
however	A contrasting sentence; use punctuation	It was cold. However, we went out.
whereas	A clause showing a direct contrast	I like tea, whereas Mia prefers coffee.

Do not combine although and but to join the same two clauses: Although it was cold, we went out.

The word that follows a connector is often the deciding factor.

Avoid	Use	Why
despite it rained	although it rained / despite the rain	Despite takes a noun or -ing form.
because of it rained	because it rained / because of the rain	Because takes a clause.
I went for buy bread	I went to buy bread	Use to + base verb for simple purpose.