Transition Words
Connect your ideas smoothly with these transition words and phrases
Add information or ideas
Adds a point that strengthens the previous one
"The policy is costly. Furthermore, it has proven ineffective."
Introduces additional important information
"The research is comprehensive. Moreover, it is peer-reviewed."
Adds supplementary information
"The hotel offers free WiFi. In addition, breakfast is included."
Introduces extra points
"The app is user-friendly. Additionally, it works offline."
Simple addition of related information
"She speaks French. She also speaks German."
Connects equal items
"The course covers writing as well as speaking skills."
Show differences or opposing ideas
Introduces a contrasting point
"The plan seems logical. However, it may be impractical."
Despite what was just mentioned
"The task was difficult. Nevertheless, they succeeded."
Presents an alternative viewpoint
"Cars are convenient. On the other hand, they cause pollution."
Introduces an opposite idea
"Urban areas are crowded. Conversely, rural areas have more space."
Highlights differences between two things
"Summer is hot. In contrast, winter can be freezing."
Introduces a concession
"Although it rained, the event was successful."
Compares two different things
"Japan drives on the left, whereas China drives on the right."
Show reasons and results
Shows a result of something
"He missed the deadline. Consequently, he lost the contract."
Logical conclusion from previous point
"The evidence is clear. Therefore, we must act now."
Shows outcome of an action or situation
"She studied hard. As a result, she passed the exam."
For this reason
"The data is incomplete, hence the uncertainty."
In this way, as a result
"The experiment failed, thus proving the hypothesis wrong."
Because of
"The flight was cancelled due to bad weather."
Because of (more formal)
"Owing to increased demand, prices have risen."
Show order or steps
Introduces the first point
"Firstly, we need to identify the problem."
Introduces the second point
"Secondly, we should analyse the data."
Following in time or order
"The project was approved. Subsequently, work began."
Introduces the last point
"Finally, we must evaluate the results."
At the same time
"The CEO resigned. Meanwhile, shares continued to fall."
Next in order
"Mix the ingredients, then bake for 30 minutes."
Later, following an event
"We had dinner, and afterwards went for a walk."
Stress important points
Reinforces a statement
"The results are impressive. Indeed, they exceed expectations."
Expresses confidence
"This is certainly the best solution available."
Without question
"She is undoubtedly the most qualified candidate."
Actually, to be precise
"It was not just good. In fact, it was excellent."
Most importantly
"Above all, we must ensure safety."
Especially, more than usual
"The food was good, particularly the dessert."
Introduce illustrations
Introduces an example
"Many countries face this issue. For instance, Japan has an ageing population."
Introduces an example
"Some fruits are citrus, for example, oranges and lemons."
To be exact
"We need resources, specifically funding and staff."
To show by example
"To illustrate this point, consider the following case."
That is to say
"Two factors matter, namely cost and quality."
Introduces examples in a list
"Sports such as football and basketball are popular."
Summarise or conclude
Signals final summary
"In conclusion, the policy requires revision."
Recap main points
"To summarise, there are three key findings."
Taking everything into account
"Overall, the project was a success."
Briefly
"In short, we need to act quickly."
In the end
"Ultimately, the decision rests with you."
Considering everything
"All in all, it was a worthwhile experience."