Examples of linking words and phrases
Language function | Prepositions/ prepositional phrases (come before noun phrases) | Conjunctions (join two clauses in one sentence) | Adverbs/Adverbial phrases (join two sentences) |
---|---|---|---|
Cause/effect | because of, due to | because | as a result, therefore |
Opposition | despite, in spite of | but, although, even though | however |
Contrast | but whereas | on the other hand | |
Addition | and | furthermore, in addition, moreover | |
Example | such as | for example |
Prepositions/prepositional phrases(come before noun phrases) | Conjunctions (join two clauses in one sentence) | Adverbs/Adverbial phrases (join two sentences) |
---|---|---|
according to, in terms of, in case of, except for, apart from, instead of | provided (that), unless, in case | similarly, likewise, firstly, secondly, thirdly, in conclusion |
Language function | Prepositions/ prepositional phrases (come before noun phrases) | Conjunctions (join two clauses in one sentence) | Adverbs/Adverbial phrases (join two sentences) |
---|---|---|---|
Cause/effect | because of, due to | because | as a result, therefore |
Opposition | despite, in spite of | but, although, even though | however |
Contrast | but whereas | on the other hand | |
Addition | and | furthermore, in addition, moreover | |
Example | such as | for example |
An Intermediate Guide to Writing in English for University Study

Our purpose is to transform access to education.
We offer a diverse selection of courses from leading universities and cultural institutions from around the world. These are delivered one step at a time, and are accessible on mobile, tablet and desktop, so you can fit learning around your life.
We believe learning should be an enjoyable, social experience, so our courses offer the opportunity to discuss what you’re learning with others as you go, helping you make fresh discoveries and form new ideas.
You can unlock new opportunities with unlimited access to hundreds of online short courses for a year by subscribing to our Unlimited package. Build your knowledge with top universities and organisations.
Learn more about how FutureLearn is transforming access to education