Transition words, also known as linking words or cohesive devices, are used to connect ideas, sentences, and paragraphs in writing. They help to guide readers through your text and clarify relationships between ideas. Here are some categories of transition words along with examples:
Addition
- Moreover
- Furthermore
- In addition
- Also
- Besides
- Additionally
Contrast
- However
- On the other hand
- Conversely
- Nevertheless
- Yet
- Although
- Despite
Cause and Effect
- Therefore
- Thus
- Consequently
- As a result
- For this reason
- Hence
Comparison
- Similarly
- Likewise
- In the same way
- Just as
- Equally
Illustration/Example
- For example
- For instance
- Such as
- Specifically
- To illustrate
Sequence/Order
- First
- Second
- Next
- Then
- Finally
- Subsequently
Conclusion/Summary
- In conclusion
- To sum up
- Overall
- In summary
- Ultimately
Clarification
- In other words
- That is to say
- To put it differently
- Namely
Using these transition words effectively can enhance the clarity and flow of your writing.