Linking words

​​In a nutshell

Cohesive devices are words or phrases that are used to connect or link ideas, so the reader can follow your thinking and understand how ideas relate to each other. Cohesive devices also help to structure your writing. 

Different cohesive devices

There are many examples of cohesive devices that can be grouped according to their functions. Here are some examples of different cohesive devices and how you can use them in your writing. 

Use these linking words if you want to add:

Examples

• After five years of waiting, the time has finally arrived.
• She always arrives on time; furthermore, her work is always excellent. 

Use these linking words if you want to contrast:

Examples

• ​On the other hand, most people trust their own experience.
  
• The calendar claimed the month was May. However, the weather felt like December. 

Use these linking words if you want to emphasise:

Examples

• In fact, she is now taking a driving test.
  
• We must be extremely discreet, my mother will suspect something otherwise.

Use these linking words if you want to compare:

Examples

• Compared to the jungle back home in Costa Rica, the woods had so few trees.
  
• Despite the heavy rain, Samantha and I enjoyed the festival.