Linking Words

Linking Words are used to link, or connect, two sentences together to chain ideas and paragraphs. They fall into four different categories: Contrast, Addition / Sequence, Persuasion, and Consequence.

Contrast

Although / even though

Although the meeting ran late, everyone stayed to provide input.
Even though the client requested last-minute changes, the design team remained flexible.

Despite / in spite of

Despite limited staff, the customer service department handled all inquiries efficiently.
In spite of technical difficulties, the webinar attracted a large audience.

However

The project was completed on time. However, several key details were overlooked.
James has excellent technical skills. However, his communication with clients needs improvement.

In contrast (to) / in comparison

In contrast to last year, this quarter’s sales have increased significantly.
In comparison to other departments, the IT team resolved tickets the fastest.

Nevertheless / nonetheless

The software update caused delays. Nonetheless, clients were satisfied with the final product.
The team lacked resources. Nevertheless, they managed to meet the deadline.

On the contrary

The manager expected resistance to the new system; on the contrary, the team embraced it.
Some believed the merger would cause layoffs; on the contrary, it created new jobs.

On the other hand

The proposal offers cost savings; on the other hand, it may reduce product quality.
Working overtime increases income; on the other hand, it can lead to burnout.

Though

The new policy was unpopular, though employees gradually accepted it.
Mark was busy with reports, though he found time to mentor the intern.

While

While the client praised the design, they requested adjustments to the layout.
While some employees prefer remote work, others thrive in the office environment.

Whereas

Some employees are early risers, whereas others stay late to finish tasks.
The marketing team focuses on creativity, whereas the finance team values precision.

Yet

Maria completed her project ahead of schedule, yet she continued to assist her colleagues.
The office is short-staffed, yet productivity remains high.

Addition or Sequence

Additionally

The company offers flexible hours. Additionally, employees can work remotely twice a week.
The training covered safety protocols. Additionally, it introduced new software tools.

As well as

The team handled logistics as well as customer inquiries.
The manager oversees marketing as well as recruitment.

First / firstly, second / secondly, third / thirdly, etc.

First, the team analyzed client feedback. Second, they brainstormed potential solutions. Third, they presented a revised proposal.
Firstly, we need to confirm the project scope. Secondly, we should allocate resources. Thirdly, the timeline must be finalized.

Finally

Next, the manager will assign tasks to each department. Finally, the report will be sent to the board.
The intern completed the initial training. Next, she will shadow a senior employee. Finally, she will handle client accounts independently.

Furthermore

The company expanded its services; furthermore, it opened two new offices.
The employee exceeded expectations; furthermore, she proposed innovative ideas.

In addition

In addition to handling payroll, Maria coordinates team events.
The marketing team boosted online ads. In addition, they launched a social media campaign.

Moreover

The project exceeded sales targets; moreover, it strengthened client relationships.
John is skilled in data analysis; moreover, he mentors new hires.

Next

The intern completed the initial training. Next, she will shadow a senior employee.
Next, the manager will assign tasks to each department.

Then

The designer finalized the logo. Then, the team integrated it into the website.
The client approved the budget. Then, production began immediately.

To begin

To begin, let’s review last quarter’s performance.
To begin the project, all stakeholders need to sign the agreement.

To conclude

To conclude, the merger will create new opportunities for growth.
To conclude the meeting, the manager summarized the key action points.

Consequence

Accordingly

The client requested additional features; accordingly, the project timeline was extended.
Sales increased this quarter; accordingly, the company will expand its operations.

As

As the deadline approached, the team worked overtime.
As the budget was approved, production began immediately.

As a consequence of

As a consequence of the system failure, the launch was delayed.
Employee morale improved as a consequence of the leadership training.

As a result

The new marketing strategy was effective; as a result, sales doubled.
The team collaborated closely; as a result, the project exceeded expectations.

Consequently

The deadline was missed; consequently, the client imposed a penalty.
Demand increased; consequently, the company hired additional staff.

Due to

The meeting was rescheduled due to a scheduling conflict.
Productivity declined due to network issues.

Hence

The budget was reduced; hence, the project scope had to be adjusted.
The server upgrade was successful; hence, system performance improved.

In conclusion

In conclusion, the project was a success thanks to teamwork and dedication.
In conclusion, the survey results show high employee satisfaction.

On the grounds of

The employee was promoted on the grounds of outstanding performance.
The proposal was rejected on the grounds of insufficient data.

Thereby

The new policy streamlined operations, thereby increasing efficiency.
The department reduced costs, thereby improving profit margins.

Therefore

The client extended the contract; therefore, the team will continue development.
Production was delayed; therefore, the launch date was moved.

Thus

The supplier raised prices; thus, the company adjusted its pricing model.
The data revealed a gap in the market; thus, a new product line was introduced.

To summarize

To summarize, the project achieved all major objectives.
To summarize, employee feedback highlighted areas for improvement.

Persuasion

Be that as it may

The meeting was delayed; be that as it may, the project continued as planned.
The budget was tight; be that as it may, the team delivered on time.

By and large

By and large, the team handled the project efficiently.
By and large, employees have adapted well to the new software.

First and foremost

First and foremost, we need to establish clear goals for the project.
First and foremost, customer satisfaction is our top priority.

Granted

Granted, the project had its challenges; however, the team overcame them successfully.
The new process is time-consuming, granted, but it ensures quality.

In the meantime

The client is reviewing the proposal. In the meantime, the team is preparing for the next phase.
The system is being upgraded. In the meantime, we are using the backup system.

Nevertheless

The project faced delays; nevertheless, the team worked hard to catch up.
The proposal was complex; nevertheless, the client approved it.

Obviously

Obviously, the team worked well under pressure, given the tight deadlines.
The new system improves efficiency, obviously benefiting the entire department.

Regrettably

Regrettably, the project had to be postponed due to unforeseen circumstances.
Regrettably, some employees missed the training session.

Regardless

The weather was terrible; regardless, the team met the deadline.
The client’s demands were high; regardless, the team delivered the product on time.

Strangely Enough

Strangely enough, the software bug only appeared on one computer.
Strangely enough, the client was pleased with the revised design despite initial concerns.

Similarly

Similarly to last year, sales have increased in the third quarter.
The marketing campaign was successful; similarly, the customer service team received positive feedback.

Surely

The team has put in a lot of effort; surely, the project will succeed.
The client has made their preferences clear; surely, we can meet their expectations.

That is to say

The project is delayed, that is to say, it will not meet the original deadline.
The department is expanding, that is to say, we need more staff to meet the demand.

Undoubtedly

Undoubtedly, the new system will improve operational efficiency.
The team performed exceptionally well; undoubtedly, they will be recognized for their hard work.

Ultimately

Ultimately, the decision rests with the senior management team.
Ultimately, the project was completed successfully, despite the challenges.