Sentences and Cohesion
Connectors between sentences
Link ideas across sentences with the connector that shows the right relationship.
A paragraph is not a pile of sentences. Connectors are the joints between them, and they do real work: they tell the reader whether what comes next agrees, disagrees, follows on, or is merely an example. Choose the wrong one and the reader is led in the wrong direction before they have finished the sentence.
Four families worth knowing
Adding: moreover, furthermore, in addition. Contrasting: however, nevertheless, on the other hand. Resulting: therefore, consequently, as a result. Exemplifying: for instance, for example.
Connector or conjunction
However, therefore and moreover open a new sentence and take a comma after them. But, because and although sit inside a single sentence and take no comma of their own. They are not interchangeable.
Test it by meaning, not by sound
"The shop was shut. Therefore, we bought the bread there." Every word is spelled correctly and the grammar is fine — but a shut shop cannot be the reason you bought bread there. A connector has to be true, not just tidy.
Worked example
Which connector fits: "Solar panels cost a great deal to install. ____, they pay for themselves within a decade."
Read the two sentences and name the relationship.
Always decide the relationship before reaching for a word.
Try it together
Let us join one pair of ideas, naming the relationship first.
The two ideas are: The ferry did not run that morning. Hundreds of passengers were left waiting on the pier.
1.Name the relationship between them in one word: adding, contrasting, resulting or exemplifying.
Have a go
The library had no copy of the book. ____, we ordered it online.
Ready to practise?
Eight questions on what you have just read. Nothing is timed, and you can play as many times as you like.