Last Updated : August 18, 2025
When we speak or write in English, our ideas need to flow smoothly. This is where linkers and connectors (also called linking words) come in. They help connect sentences, show relationships between ideas, and make our communication clearer. Whether you’re writing essays, emails, or speaking in public, mastering linkers will make your English sound natural and organized. This article introduces the most useful categories of linkers with simple examples. At the end, you can download a 1-page summary PDF for quick reference.
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1. ADDITION (Adding information)
Common linkers: Also – too – as well – in addition – moreover – besides – not only … but also
Examples:
- Sarah loves cooking. She also enjoys painting.
- Tom plays the guitar. He plays the piano too / as well.
- The shop sells clothes. In addition / Moreover / Besides, it offers free delivery.
- Anna not only works full-time, but also studies in the evening.
Tip: “Moreover” is more formal; “besides” often means an extra advantage.
2. PURPOSE (Showing intention or reason)
Common linkers: To – in order to – so as to – so that – for
Examples:
- I left early to / in order to / so as to catch the train.
- She speaks loudly so that everyone can hear her.
- They are saving money for a new house.
Structures to remember:
- To / In order to / So as to + verb
- So that + subject + can
- For + noun
3. CAUSE & EFFECT (Reasons and results)
Cause
Common linkers: Because – since – as – because of – due to – thanks to
Examples:
- We stayed home because / since / as it was very cold.
- The flight was canceled because of / due to heavy fog.
- She passed the exam thanks to her teacher’s help.
Structures:
- Because of / Due to / Thanks to + noun
- Because / Since / As + subject + verb
Effect
Common linkers: So – therefore – as a result – consequently – because of this – that’s why
Examples:
- The shop was closed, so we went to another one.
- He didn’t study. Therefore / As a result, he failed the test.
- The bus was late. That’s why I missed the meeting.
4. CONCESSION
Common linkers: But – however – nevertheless – despite this – still – yet – although – even though – even if – despite – in spite of
Examples:
- I like ice cream, but I don’t eat it often.
- It was hot. However / Nevertheless / Despite this / Still / Yet, she wore a jacket.
- Although / Even though it was noisy, I managed to sleep.
- We enjoyed the picnic even if the weather wasn’t perfect.
- In spite of / Despite the traffic, we arrived on time.
- Despite / In spite of working hard, he didn’t pass the test.
Structures:
- Despite / In spite of + noun / verb-ing
- Although / Even though / Even if + subject + verb
5. CONTRAST (Showing differences)
Common linkers: While – whereas – in contrast
Examples:
- While my brother loves football, I prefer basketball.
- City life is fast and busy, whereas countryside life is calm and simple.
- The north of the country is very cold. In contrast, the south is warm and sunny.
6. GIVING EXAMPLES / EXPLAINING
Common linkers: For example – for instance – such as – like – in other words – to illustrate
Examples:
- You should eat more fruit, for example / for instance / like apples and oranges.
- He is very generous. In other words/to illustrate, he always shares what he has.
- Some countries, such as , Japan and Korea, invest heavily in technology.
7. SUMMARIZING / CONCLUDING
Common linkers: To summarize – in brief – to sum up – all in all – to conclude – in conclusion – in short
Examples:
- We visited museums, parks, and local markets. All in all / To sum up, the trip was fantastic.
- I explained the rules. In short, you must finish the task before noon.
- We discussed many solutions. To conclude, teamwork is the best choice.
Conclusion
Linkers and connectors are like the glue of English. They help you join ideas, show contrasts, express causes, results, and offer your writing and speaking a smooth flow. By practicing these linkers, you’ll sound more fluent and confident.
