Linking & Cohesion

Form

Linking words show how one idea relates to the next, and the grammar you need depends on which kind of linker you choose (although, however, despite).

Words like although, because and while join two halves of one sentence (Although it rained, we walked). Words like however, therefore and moreover open a new sentence and take a comma after them (It rained. However, we walked). Words like despite, because of and in spite of come in front of a noun or an -ing form rather than a full clause (Despite the rain, we walked).

When to Use It

1. 1

   Contrast inside one sentence, with although, even though or while

   Although the salary was lower, he took the job.

2. 2

   Contrast across two sentences, with however, nevertheless or on the other hand

   The design is beautiful. However, it costs too much.

3. 3

   Contrast in front of a noun, with despite or in spite of

   Despite the delay, the team finished on time.

4. 4

   Cause, with because or since before a clause and because of or due to before a noun

   The event was canceled due to heavy rain.

5. 5

   Result, with therefore, consequently or as a result, usually opening the second sentence

   Demand fell sharply. As a result, we cut production.

6. 6

   Addition in formal writing, with furthermore, moreover or in addition

   The proposal was detailed. Furthermore, the price was competitive.

Common Mistakes

• Despite in front of a clause: write Despite the rain or Although it rained, not Despite it rained — despite takes a noun or an -ing form.
• Because in front of a noun: write because of the strike, not because the strike — because needs a full clause, because of needs a noun.
• However used as a conjunction: write It was late. However, we stayed, not It was late, however we stayed — however opens a new sentence or follows a semicolon.
• Although plus but: write Although it was expensive, she bought it, not Although it was expensive, but she bought it — although already shows the contrast, so you do not add but.
• In addition to in front of a clause: write In addition to reviewing the contract, not In addition to you review the contract — in addition to takes a noun or an -ing form.