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- Transition Words & Phrases | List & Examples
Transition Words & Phrases | List & Examples
Published on May 29, 2020 by Jack Caulfield . Revised on August 23, 2023.
Transition words and phrases (also called linking words, connecting words, or transitional words) are used to link together different ideas in your text. They help the reader to follow your arguments by expressing the relationships between different sentences or parts of a sentence.
The proposed solution to the problem did not work. Therefore , we attempted a second solution. However , this solution was also unsuccessful.
For clear writing, it’s essential to understand the meaning of transition words and use them correctly.
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Table of contents
When and how to use transition words, types and examples of transition words, common mistakes with transition words, other interesting articles.
Transition words commonly appear at the start of a new sentence or clause (followed by a comma ), serving to express how this clause relates to the previous one.
Transition words can also appear in the middle of a clause. It’s important to place them correctly to convey the meaning you intend.
Example text with and without transition words
The text below describes all the events it needs to, but it does not use any transition words to connect them. Because of this, it’s not clear exactly how these different events are related or what point the author is making by telling us about them.
If we add some transition words at appropriate moments, the text reads more smoothly and the relationship among the events described becomes clearer.
Germany invaded Poland on September 1, 1939. Consequently , France and the United Kingdom declared war on Germany. The Soviet Union initially worked with Germany in order to partition Poland. However , Germany invaded the Soviet Union in 1941.
Don’t overuse transition words
While transition words are essential to clear writing, it’s possible to use too many of them. Consider the following example, in which the overuse of linking words slows down the text and makes it feel repetitive.
In this case the best way to fix the problem is to simplify the text so that fewer linking words are needed.
The key to using transition words effectively is striking the right balance. It is difficult to follow the logic of a text with no transition words, but a text where every sentence begins with a transition word can feel over-explained.
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There are four main types of transition word: additive, adversative, causal, and sequential. Within each category, words are divided into several more specific functions.
Remember that transition words with similar meanings are not necessarily interchangeable. It’s important to understand the meaning of all the transition words you use. If unsure, consult a dictionary to find the precise definition.
Additive transition words
Additive transition words introduce new information or examples. They can be used to expand upon, compare with, or clarify the preceding text.
Function | Example sentence | Transition words and phrases |
---|---|---|
Addition | We found that the mixture was effective. , it appeared to have additional effects we had not predicted. | indeed, furthermore, moreover, additionally, and, also, both and , not only but also , , in fact |
Introduction | Several researchers have previously explored this topic. , Smith (2014) examined the effects of … | such as, like, particularly, including, as an illustration, for example, for instance, in particular, to illustrate, especially, notably |
Reference | The solution showed a high degree of absorption. , it is reasonable to conclude that … | considering , regarding , in regard to , as for , concerning , the fact that , on the subject of |
Similarity | It was not possible to establish a correlation between these variables. , the connection between and remains unclear … | similarly, in the same way, by the same token, in like manner, equally, likewise |
Clarification | The patient suffered several side effects, increased appetite, decreased libido, and disordered sleep. | that is (to say), namely, specifically, more precisely, in other words |
Adversative transition words
Adversative transition words always signal a contrast of some kind. They can be used to introduce information that disagrees or contrasts with the preceding text.
Function | Example sentence | Transition words and phrases |
---|---|---|
Conflict | The novel does deal with the theme of family. , its central theme is more broadly political … | but, however, although, though, equally, by way of contrast, while, on the other hand, (and) yet, whereas, in contrast, (when) in fact, conversely, whereas |
Concession | Jones (2011) argues that the novel reflects Russian politics of the time. this is correct, other aspects of the text must also be considered. | even so, nonetheless, nevertheless, even though, on the other hand, admittedly, despite , notwithstanding , (and) still, although, , regardless (of ), (and) yet, though, granted |
Dismissal | It remains unclear which of these hypotheses is correct. , it can be inferred that … | regardless, either way, whatever the case, in any/either event, in any/either case, at any rate, all the same |
Emphasis | The chemical is generally thought to have corrosive properties. , several studies have supported this hypothesis. | above all, indeed, more/most importantly |
Replacement | The character of Godfrey is often viewed as selfish, self-absorbed. | (or) at least, (or) rather, instead, or (perhaps) even, if not |
Causal transition words
Causal transition words are used to describe cause and effect. They can be used to express purpose, consequence, and condition.
Function | Example sentence | Transition words and phrases |
---|---|---|
Consequence | Hitler failed to respond to the British ultimatum, France and the UK declared war on Germany. | therefore, because (of ), as a result (of ), for this reason, in view of , as, owing to x, due to (the fact that), since, consequently, in consequence, as a consequence, hence, thus, so (that), accordingly, so much (so) that, under the/such circumstances, if so |
Condition | We qualified survey responses as positive the participant selected “agree” or “strongly agree.” , results were recorded as negative. | (even/only) if/when, on (the) condition that, in the case that, granted (that), provided/providing that, in case, in the event that, as/so long as, unless, given that, being that, inasmuch/insofar as, in that case, in (all) other cases, if so/not, otherwise |
Purpose | We used accurate recording equipment our results would be as precise as possible. | to, in order to/that, for the purpose of, in the hope that, so that, to the end that, lest, with this in mind, so as to, so that, to ensure (that) |
Sequential transition words
Sequential transition words indicate a sequence, whether it’s the order in which events occurred chronologically or the order you’re presenting them in your text. They can be used for signposting in academic texts.
Function | Example sentence | Transition words and phrases |
---|---|---|
Enumeration | This has historically had several consequences: , the conflict is not given the weight of other conflicts in historical narratives. , its causes are inadequately understood. , … | first, second, third… |
Initiation | , I want to consider the role played by women in this period. | in the first place, initially, first of all, to begin with, at first |
Continuation | , I discuss the way in which the country’s various ethnic minorities were affected by the conflict. | subsequently, previously, eventually, next, before , afterwards, after , then |
Conclusion | , I consider these two themes in combination. | to conclude (with), as a final point, eventually, at last, last but not least, finally, lastly |
Resumption | my main argument, it is clear that … | to return/returning to , to resume, at any rate |
Summation | Patel (2015) comes to a similar conclusion. , the four studies considered here suggest a consensus that the solution is effective. | as previously stated/mentioned, in summary, as I have argued, overall, as has been mentioned, to summarize, briefly, given these points, in view of , as has been noted, in conclusion, in sum, altogether, in short |
Transition words are often used incorrectly. Make sure you understand the proper usage of transition words and phrases, and remember that words with similar meanings don’t necessarily work the same way grammatically.
Misused transition words can make your writing unclear or illogical. Your audience will be easily lost if you misrepresent the connections between your sentences and ideas.
Confused use of therefore
“Therefore” and similar cause-and-effect words are used to state that something is the result of, or follows logically from, the previous. Make sure not to use these words in a way that implies illogical connections.
- We asked participants to rate their satisfaction with their work from 1 to 10. Therefore , the average satisfaction among participants was 7.5.
The use of “therefore” in this example is illogical: it suggests that the result of 7.5 follows logically from the question being asked, when in fact many other results were possible. To fix this, we simply remove the word “therefore.”
- We asked participants to rate their satisfaction with their work from 1 to 10. The average satisfaction among participants was 7.5.
Starting a sentence with also , and , or so
While the words “also,” “and,” and “so” are used in academic writing, they are considered too informal when used at the start of a sentence.
- Also , a second round of testing was carried out.
To fix this issue, we can either move the transition word to a different point in the sentence or use a more formal alternative.
- A second round of testing was also carried out.
- Additionally , a second round of testing was carried out.
Transition words creating sentence fragments
Words like “although” and “because” are called subordinating conjunctions . This means that they introduce clauses which cannot stand on their own. A clause introduced by one of these words should always follow or be followed by another clause in the same sentence.
The second sentence in this example is a fragment, because it consists only of the “although” clause.
- Smith (2015) argues that the period should be reassessed. Although other researchers disagree.
We can fix this in two different ways. One option is to combine the two sentences into one using a comma. The other option is to use a different transition word that does not create this problem, like “however.”
- Smith (2015) argues that the period should be reassessed, although other researchers disagree.
- Smith (2015) argues that the period should be reassessed. However , other researchers disagree.
And vs. as well as
Students often use the phrase “ as well as ” in place of “and,” but its usage is slightly different. Using “and” suggests that the things you’re listing are of equal importance, while “as well as” introduces additional information that is less important.
- Chapter 1 discusses some background information on Woolf, as well as presenting my analysis of To the Lighthouse .
In this example, the analysis is more important than the background information. To fix this mistake, we can use “and,” or we can change the order of the sentence so that the most important information comes first. Note that we add a comma before “as well as” but not before “and.”
- Chapter 1 discusses some background information on Woolf and presents my analysis of To the Lighthouse .
- Chapter 1 presents my analysis of To the Lighthouse , as well as discussing some background information on Woolf.
Note that in fixed phrases like “both x and y ,” you must use “and,” not “as well as.”
- Both my results as well as my interpretations are presented below.
- Both my results and my interpretations are presented below.
Use of and/or
The combination of transition words “and/or” should generally be avoided in academic writing. It makes your text look messy and is usually unnecessary to your meaning.
First consider whether you really do mean “and/or” and not just “and” or “or.” If you are certain that you need both, it’s best to separate them to make your meaning as clear as possible.
- Participants were asked whether they used the bus and/or the train.
- Participants were asked whether they used the bus, the train, or both.
Archaic transition words
Words like “hereby,” “therewith,” and most others formed by the combination of “here,” “there,” or “where” with a preposition are typically avoided in modern academic writing. Using them makes your writing feel old-fashioned and strained and can sometimes obscure your meaning.
- Poverty is best understood as a disease. Hereby , we not only see that it is hereditary, but acknowledge its devastating effects on a person’s health.
These words should usually be replaced with a more explicit phrasing expressing how the current statement relates to the preceding one.
- Poverty is best understood as a disease. Understanding it as such , we not only see that it is hereditary, but also acknowledge its devastating effects on a person’s health.
Using a paraphrasing tool for clear writing
With the use of certain tools, you can make your writing clear. One of these tools is a paraphrasing tool . One thing the tool does is help your sentences make more sense. It has different modes where it checks how your text can be improved. For example, automatically adding transition words where needed.
If you want to know more about AI for academic writing, AI tools, or writing rules make sure to check out some of our other articles with explanations and examples or go directly to our tools!
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Some experts argue that focusing on individual actions to combat climate change takes the focus away from the collective action required to keep carbon levels from rising. Change will not be effected, say some others, unless individual actions raise the necessary awareness.
While a reader can see the connection between the sentences above, it’s not immediately clear that the second sentence is providing a counterargument to the first. In the example below, key “old information” is repeated in the second sentence to help readers quickly see the connection. This makes the sequence of ideas easier to follow.
Sentence pair #2: Effective Transition
Some experts argue that focusing on individual actions to combat climate change takes the focus away from the collective action required to keep carbon levels from rising. Other experts argue that individual actions are key to raising the awareness necessary to effect change.
You can use this same technique to create clear transitions between paragraphs. Here’s an example:
Some experts argue that focusing on individual actions to combat climate change takes the focus away from the collective action required to keep carbon levels from rising. Other experts argue that individual actions are key to raising the awareness necessary to effect change. According to Annie Lowery, individual actions are important to making social change because when individuals take action, they can change values, which can lead to more people becoming invested in fighting climate change. She writes, “Researchers believe that these kinds of household-led trends can help avert climate catastrophe, even if government and corporate actions are far more important” (Lowery).
So, what’s an individual household supposed to do?
The repetition of the word “household” in the new paragraph helps readers see the connection between what has come before (a discussion of whether household actions matter) and what is about to come (a proposal for what types of actions households can take to combat climate change).
Sometimes, transitional words can help readers see how ideas are connected. But it’s not enough to just include a “therefore,” “moreover,” “also,” or “in addition.” You should choose these words carefully to show your readers what kind of connection you are making between your ideas.
To decide which transitional word to use, start by identifying the relationship between your ideas. For example, you might be
- making a comparison or showing a contrast Transitional words that compare and contrast include also, in the same way, similarly, in contrast, yet, on the one hand, on the other hand. But before you signal comparison, ask these questions: Do your readers need another example of the same thing? Is there a new nuance in this next point that distinguishes it from the previous example? For those relationships between ideas, you might try this type of transition: While x may appear the same, it actually raises a new question in a slightly different way.
- expressing agreement or disagreement When you are making an argument, you need to signal to readers where you stand in relation to other scholars and critics. You may agree with another person’s claim, you may want to concede some part of the argument even if you don’t agree with everything, or you may disagree. Transitional words that signal agreement, concession, and disagreement include however, nevertheless, actually, still, despite, admittedly, still, on the contrary, nonetheless .
- showing cause and effect Transitional phrases that show cause and effect include therefore, hence, consequently, thus, so. Before you choose one of these words, make sure that what you are about to illustrate is really a causal link. Novice writers tend to add therefore and hence when they aren’t sure how to transition; you should reserve these words for when they accurately signal the progression of your ideas.
- explaining or elaborating Transitions can signal to readers that you are going to expand on a point that you have just made or explain something further. Transitional words that signal explanation or elaboration include in other words, for example, for instance, in particular, that is, to illustrate, moreover .
- drawing conclusions You can use transitions to signal to readers that you are moving from the body of your argument to your conclusions. Before you use transitional words to signal conclusions, consider whether you can write a stronger conclusion by creating a transition that shows the relationship between your ideas rather than by flagging the paragraph simply as a conclusion. Transitional words that signal a conclusion include in conclusion , as a result, ultimately, overall— but strong conclusions do not necessarily have to include those phrases.
If you’re not sure which transitional words to use—or whether to use one at all—see if you can explain the connection between your paragraphs or sentence either out loud or in the margins of your draft.
For example, if you write a paragraph in which you summarize physician Atul Gawande’s argument about the value of incremental care, and then you move on to a paragraph that challenges those ideas, you might write down something like this next to the first paragraph: “In this paragraph I summarize Gawande’s main claim.” Then, next to the second paragraph, you might write, “In this paragraph I present a challenge to Gawande’s main claim.” Now that you have identified the relationship between those two paragraphs, you can choose the most effective transition between them. Since the second paragraph in this example challenges the ideas in the first, you might begin with something like “but,” or “however,” to signal that shift for your readers.
- picture_as_pdf Transitions
45 Best Transition Words and Phrases For Essays
But how to make sure that everything ties together, and that you present your arguments in a logical, smooth manner? It’s simple. You do it by using transition words and phrases, which can turn your scattered thoughts into a well-organized, and neatly looking piece of prose. “Look on every exit as being an entrance somewhere else.” – Tom Stoppard It is common knowledge that the ability to write a great essay is tremendously helpful to those who are pursuing higher education. So, it wouldn’t hurt to add all the weapons you can find to your essay-writing arsenal, like these transition words.
What are transition words?
Here are the main rules for the usage of transitional words:, using transitional words in essays.
Your regular essay will comprise five paragraphs – an introduction, three paragraphs to present your points, and a conclusion. Your job is to make the prose consistent, and that’s why you need words and phrases to create links between the ideas. The words and phrases below are mostly used in persuasive (argumentative) essays where you need to convince the readers of your opinion confidently. But in fact, they’re useful in almost any type of writing (such as expository essays ) simply to keep the structure intact. If you use them well, they can emphasize contrast, highlight a similarity, and solidify your conclusion. Transition, a formal definition: the process of changing from one situation, form, or state to another.
Transition words are used at the beginning of each new paragraph. For Example:
They can also be used when you present a new point in the same paragraph. for example:, there’s a multitude of transition words that will contribute to a sleeker essay.
Many students make the mistake of repeating the same words repeatedly. This causes them to lose impact and meaning. Among grammarians, this phenomenon is called grammar saturation. The important thing to know is that there are several categories to transition words depending on the type of impact you’d like to create in your writing . Often, there are several words suitable for one transition. Just remember that they don’t always mean the same and you might need some practice to recognize the subtle differences between them. To avoid this, look up synonyms and never use the same transition word more than once in a single piece of prose (especially in the same paragraph). If you need a more in-depth course on this topic, you may read A Writer’s Guide To Transitional Words and Expressions.
Here’s a list of the best transition words that’ll come to your rescue:
When you want to indicate similarity or addition:, examples of use:, when you want to indicate dissimilarity, contrast, or contradiction:, when you want to indicate similarity:, when you want to indicate cause, effect, purpose, consequence, or result:, when you want to emphasize something:, when you want to indicate the time or sequence of events:, when you want to indicate spatial order or reference:, how do these words relate to the format of your essay, introductory transitions.
These come in handy when you craft your first supporting paragraph (the one after the introductory one). Here you usually start building on your thesis and start giving arguments in its favor.
Words to use in an introductory paragraph:
Connecting the second paragraph to the third:, connecting the third paragraph to the fourth:, connecting the body to the conclusion:.
Pro tip: Words like ‘for’, ‘and’, ‘nor’, ‘but’, ‘or’, ‘yet’, and ‘since’ shouldn’t be used at the beginning of a sentence if you’re writing a formal essay. “The best part of your story is when it changes.” – Bella Bloom Bonus material – a printable PDF chart with link words (always keep it beside you): A complete list of transition words and conjunctions.
Now it’s your turn to use these transition words
Starting an essay is always challenging, even for advanced writers. Hopefully, by reading this article, I made your task easier by adding a valuable tool to your writer’s toolbox. Just remember to use these phrases originally, and without repetition. The last thing you want to do is to sound mechanical as if you’re writing from a template. Next up, you may want to check a list of amazing short pretty words in English .
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70+ Transition words for essays with examples
Transition words for essays.
Ever stared at a blank page, your thoughts swirling like a disorganized storm? Crafting a compelling essay often hinges on smooth transitions between ideas. Fear not, fellow writer! Here’s your guide to essential transition words , those linguistic gems that bridge the gaps in your essay and create a clear, logical flow.
List of Transition words for essays
- Additionally
- Furthermore
- In addition
- In the same way
- In other words
- That is to say
- For example
- For instance
- Specifically
- To illustrate
- In particular
- Without a doubt
- Essentially
- In conclusion
- To conclude
- On the whole
- Consequently
- Accordingly
- As a result
- For this reason
- Because of this
- Due to this
- In light of this
- Considering that
- Seeing that
- As a matter of fact
- Nonetheless
- Nevertheless
- Even though
- In spite of
- On the contrary
Transition words for essays with examples
Here are examples of sentences using each of the transition words for cause:
- Additionally : “She enjoys playing the piano. Additionally, she is proficient in playing the guitar.”
- Furthermore : “The research indicated a positive correlation between exercise and mental health. Furthermore, it suggested that regular physical activity reduces stress levels.”
- Moreover : “The company reported an increase in sales for the third quarter. Moreover, profits also saw a significant rise.”
- In addition : “He enjoys outdoor activities such as hiking and camping. In addition, he is passionate about photography.”
- Also : “He enjoys playing tennis. Also, he participates in swimming competitions.”
- Likewise : “She volunteered at the local shelter. Likewise, her brother also dedicated his time to community service.”
- Similarly : “The team implemented new strategies to improve productivity. Similarly, other departments adopted similar approaches.”
- In the same way : “She excels in academics. In the same way, her siblings also achieve high grades.”
- Equally : “Both candidates possess strong leadership skills. Equally, they demonstrate excellent communication abilities.”
- Besides : “She enjoys reading novels. Besides, she also enjoys writing short stories.”
- In other words : “The product received mixed reviews due to its functionality issues. In other words, customers experienced difficulties with its performance.”
- That is to say : “She loves traveling to exotic destinations. That is to say, she prefers exploring off-the-beaten-path locations.”
- Namely : “The research focused on several key areas, namely, customer satisfaction, product quality, and market trends.”
- For example : “Many countries have implemented strict environmental policies. For example, Denmark has achieved significant progress in renewable energy.”
- For instance : “Some popular social media platforms, for instance, Facebook and Instagram, have millions of active users.”
- Specifically : “The training program focuses specifically on enhancing leadership skills and fostering teamwork.”
- To illustrate : “To illustrate the concept further, let’s consider a real-life example.”
- In particular : “The company aims to expand its operations globally. In particular, it plans to target emerging markets in Asia.”
- In fact : “Contrary to popular belief, exercise is not only beneficial for physical health but also for mental well-being. In fact, it has been shown to reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety.”
- Indeed : “The company’s efforts to promote diversity have yielded positive results. Indeed, diversity has been linked to increased innovation and creativity.”
- Actually : “Contrary to what many people believe, the situation is actually quite different.”
- Truly : “She was truly dedicated to her work and always gave her best effort.”
- Certainly : “The results of the study certainly support the hypothesis.”
- Of course : “Of course, you are welcome to join us for dinner.”
- Without a doubt : “Without a doubt, she is one of the most talented musicians I’ve ever met.”
- In essence : “The policy change, in essence, aims to improve customer satisfaction.”
- Essentially : “The project, essentially, involves redesigning the user interface.”
- In summary : “In summary, the findings suggest a need for further research in this area.”
- In conclusion : “In conclusion, it is evident that climate change poses significant challenges.”
- To sum up : “To sum up, the main points of the argument are as follows.”
- In brief : “In brief, the report highlights key areas for improvement.”
- To conclude : “To conclude, let’s consider the implications of these findings.”
- Overall : “Overall, the project was a success.”
- All in all : “All in all, it was a memorable experience.”
- On the whole : “On the whole, the feedback has been positive.”
- Therefore : “The traffic was heavy; therefore, they arrived late to the meeting.”
- Thus : “The factory implemented new safety measures; thus, the number of accidents decreased.”
- Hence : “The flight was canceled; hence, they had to make alternative travel arrangements.”
- Consequently : “He missed the deadline; consequently, he faced disciplinary action.”
- Accordingly : “The instructions were unclear; accordingly, many participants made mistakes.”
- As a result : “The market demand increased; as a result, prices rose.”
- For this reason : “She forgot her umbrella; for this reason, she got wet in the rain.”
- Because of this : “He missed the train because of this, he couldn’t attend the meeting.”
- Due to this : “Due to this unforeseen circumstance, the event had to be postponed.”
- In light of this : “In light of this new information, we need to reconsider our strategy.”
- Since : “Since it was raining heavily, they decided to stay indoors.”
- Because : “He didn’t study for the exam because he was feeling unwell.”
- For : “He received a promotion for his outstanding performance.”
- As : “As the temperature dropped, people bundled up in warm clothing.”
- Owing to : “Owing to his persistent efforts, he achieved success.”
- Given that : “Given that she had prior experience, she was appointed as the team leader.”
- Considering that : “Considering that it was his first attempt, he performed exceptionally well.”
- Seeing that : “Seeing that the store was closing soon, they hurried to finish their shopping.”
- In view of : “In view of the current situation, we need to take immediate action.”
- As a matter of fact : “As a matter of fact, he was the first to arrive at the party.”
- Regardless : “He continued with the project regardless of the challenges he faced.”
- Nonetheless : “The weather was unfavorable; nonetheless, they decided to go ahead with the outdoor event.”
- Nevertheless : “The plan faced criticism; nevertheless, it was implemented successfully.”
- However : “She forgot her passport; however, she managed to board the flight with a temporary permit.”
- Although : “Although it was raining, they decided to go for a walk.”
- Though : “Though she was tired, she continued working late into the night.”
- Even though : “Even though he was warned about the risks, he proceeded with the plan.”
- Despite : “Despite the challenges, they remained committed to their goal.”
- In spite of : “In spite of the obstacles, they persevered and succeeded.”
- On the contrary : “The results were contrary to expectations; on the contrary, they were favorable.”
- Conversely : “He expected to feel relieved; conversely, he felt even more anxious.”
- But : “The weather was sunny, but they decided to cancel the picnic due to other commitments.”
- Yet : “He had a busy schedule, yet he managed to find time for his hobbies.”
- Whereas : “She preferred coffee, whereas her sister preferred tea.”
By mastering the art of transition words, you’ll transform your essay from a disjointed collection of ideas into a powerful and persuasive piece of writing. So, the next time you sit down to write, remember these transition words and watch your essay flow majestically!
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100 Transition Words for Essays: Essential Academic Writing!
Transition Words for Essays: Words and Phrases Used in Academic Writing
Transition words for research paper.
“Research is formalized curiosity. It is poking and prying with a purpose.” – Zora Neale Hurston”
By providing evidence of research, readers can trust what you write is concrete, accurate to the best of your knowledge, and reliable. Here is a sample of research writing in action, with citations given. It is a paragraph from a research essay:
Transition Words within a Paragraph
Transition words and phrases.
Read more: 18 Powerful Websites to Improve Your Writing Skills in English Punctuation Marks – Quotation Marks – Question Mark
Explanation
Sample of explanation, transition words in addition: adding additional information to support a point, sample of adding additional information to support a point, transition words in addition to, transition words for demonstrating contrast, example of demonstrating contrast, transition words for contrast, transition words to start a paragraph: adding a proviso or acknowledging reservations, example of adding a proviso, transition words to begin a sentence, transition words for giving examples, example of giving examples.
On the other hand, in a team, the credit cannot be given to someone specific; instead, a team manager usually gathers everyone in a conference room and says something like, “Good job everyone.”
Transition Words Examples
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Transition Words
As a "part of speech" transition words are used to link words, phrases or sentences. They help the reader to progress from one idea (expressed by the author) to the next idea. Thus, they help to build up coherent relationships within the text.
Transitional Words
This structured list of commonly used English transition words — approximately 200, can be considered as quasi complete. It can be used (by students and teachers alike) to find the right expression. English transition words are essential, since they not only connect ideas, but also can introduce a certain shift, contrast or opposition, emphasis or agreement, purpose, result or conclusion, etc. in the line of argument. The transition words and phrases have been assigned only once to somewhat artificial categories, although some words belong to more than one category.
There is some overlapping with prepositions and postpositions, but for the purpose of usage and completeness of this concise guide, I did not differentiate.
Linking & Connecting Words — Part 1/2
Agreement / Addition / Similarity
Opposition / limitation / contradiction, examples / support / emphasis, cause / condition / purpose, effect / consequence / result, conclusion / summary / restatement, time / chronology / sequence, space / location / place.
The transition words like also, in addition, and, likewise , add information , reinforce ideas , and express agreement with preceding material.
in the first place
not only ... but also
as a matter of fact
in like manner
in addition
coupled with
in the same fashion / way
first, second, third
in the light of
not to mention
to say nothing of
equally important
by the same token
identically
together with
comparatively
correspondingly
furthermore
additionally
Transition phrases like but , rather and or , express that there is evidence to the contrary or point out alternatives , and thus introduce a change the line of reasoning ( contrast ).
although this may be true
in contrast
different from
of course ..., but
on the other hand
on the contrary
at the same time
in spite of
even so / though
be that as it may
(and) still
even though
nevertheless
nonetheless
notwithstanding
These transitional phrases present specific conditions or intentions .
in the event that
granted (that)
as / so long as
on (the) condition (that)
for the purpose of
with this intention
with this in mind
in the hope that
to the end that
for fear that
in order to
seeing / being that
provided that
only / even if
inasmuch as
These transitional devices (like especially ) are used to introduce examples as support , to indicate importance or as an illustration so that an idea is cued to the reader.
in other words
to put it differently
for one thing
as an illustration
in this case
for this reason
to put it another way
that is to say
with attention to
by all means
important to realize
another key point
first thing to remember
most compelling evidence
must be remembered
point often overlooked
to point out
on the positive side
on the negative side
specifically
surprisingly
significantly
particularly
in particular
for example
for instance
to demonstrate
to emphasize
to enumerate
Some of these transition words ( thus, then, accordingly, consequently, therefore, henceforth ) are time words that are used to show that after a particular time there was a consequence or an effect .
Note that for and because are placed before the cause/reason. The other devices are placed before the consequences or effects.
as a result
under those circumstances
in that case
because the
consequently
accordingly
These transition words and phrases conclude , summarize and / or restate ideas, or indicate a final general statement . Also some words (like therefore ) from the Effect / Consequence category can be used to summarize.
as can be seen
generally speaking
in the final analysis
all things considered
as shown above
in the long run
given these points
as has been noted
for the most part
in conclusion
to summarize
by and large
on the whole
in any event
in either case
These transitional words (like finally ) have the function of limiting, restricting, and defining time . They can be used either alone or as part of adverbial expressions .
at the present time
from time to time
sooner or later
up to the present time
to begin with
in due time
in the meantime
in a moment
without delay
all of a sudden
at this instant
first, second
immediately
straightaway
by the time
occasionally
Many transition words in the time category ( consequently; first, second, third; further; hence; henceforth; since; then, when; and whenever ) have other uses.
Except for the numbers ( first, second, third ) and further they add a meaning of time in expressing conditions, qualifications, or reasons. The numbers are also used to add information or list examples . Further is also used to indicate added space as well as added time.
These transition words are often used as part of adverbial expressions and have the function to restrict, limit or qualify space . Quite a few of these are also found in the Time category and can be used to describe spatial order or spatial reference.
in the middle
to the left/right
in front of
on this side
in the distance
here and there
in the foreground
in the background
in the center of
adjacent to
opposite to
List of Transition Words
Transition Words are also sometimes called (or put in the category of) Connecting Words. Please feel free to download them via this link to the category page: Linking Words & Connecting Words as a PDF. It contains all the transition words listed on this site. The image to the left gives you an impression how it looks like.
Usage of Transition Words in Essays
Transition words and phrases are vital devices for essays , papers or other literary compositions. They improve the connections and transitions between sentences and paragraphs. They thus give the text a logical organization and structure (see also: a List of Synonyms ).
All English transition words and phrases (sometimes also called 'conjunctive adverbs') do the same work as coordinating conjunctions : they connect two words, phrases or clauses together and thus the text is easier to read and the coherence is improved.
Usage: transition words are used with a special rule for punctuation : a semicolon or a period is used after the first 'sentence', and a comma is almost always used to set off the transition word from the second 'sentence'.
Example 1: People use 43 muscles when they frown; however, they use only 28 muscles when they smile.
Example 2: however, transition words can also be placed at the beginning of a new paragraph or sentence - not only to indicate a step forward in the reasoning, but also to relate the new material to the preceding thoughts..
Use a semicolon to connect sentences, only if the group of words on either side of the semicolon is a complete sentence each (both must have a subject and a verb, and could thus stand alone as a complete thought).
Further helpful readings about expressions, writing and grammar: Compilation of Writing Tips How to write good ¦ Correct Spelling Study by an English University
Are you using WORD for writing professional texts and essays? There are many easy Windows Shortcuts available which work (almost) system-wide (e.g. in every programm you use).
33 Transition Words and Phrases
Transitional terms give writers the opportunity to prepare readers for a new idea, connecting the previous sentence to the next one.
Many transitional words are nearly synonymous: words that broadly indicate that “this follows logically from the preceding” include accordingly, therefore, and consequently . Words that mean “in addition to” include moreover, besides, and further . Words that mean “contrary to what was just stated” include however, nevertheless , and nonetheless .
as a result : THEREFORE : CONSEQUENTLY
The executive’s flight was delayed and they accordingly arrived late.
in or by way of addition : FURTHERMORE
The mountain has many marked hiking trails; additionally, there are several unmarked trails that lead to the summit.
at a later or succeeding time : SUBSEQUENTLY, THEREAFTER
Afterward, she got a promotion.
even though : ALTHOUGH
She appeared as a guest star on the show, albeit briefly.
in spite of the fact that : even though —used when making a statement that differs from or contrasts with a statement you have just made
They are good friends, although they don't see each other very often.
in addition to what has been said : MOREOVER, FURTHERMORE
I can't go, and besides, I wouldn't go if I could.
as a result : in view of the foregoing : ACCORDINGLY
The words are often confused and are consequently misused.
in a contrasting or opposite way —used to introduce a statement that contrasts with a previous statement or presents a differing interpretation or possibility
Large objects appear to be closer. Conversely, small objects seem farther away.
used to introduce a statement that is somehow different from what has just been said
These problems are not as bad as they were. Even so, there is much more work to be done.
used as a stronger way to say "though" or "although"
I'm planning to go even though it may rain.
in addition : MOREOVER
I had some money to invest, and, further, I realized that the risk was small.
in addition to what precedes : BESIDES —used to introduce a statement that supports or adds to a previous statement
These findings seem plausible. Furthermore, several studies have confirmed them.
because of a preceding fact or premise : for this reason : THEREFORE
He was a newcomer and hence had no close friends here.
from this point on : starting now
She announced that henceforth she would be running the company.
in spite of that : on the other hand —used when you are saying something that is different from or contrasts with a previous statement
I'd like to go; however, I'd better not.
as something more : BESIDES —used for adding information to a statement
The city has the largest population in the country and in addition is a major shipping port.
all things considered : as a matter of fact —used when making a statement that adds to or strengthens a previous statement
He likes to have things his own way; indeed, he can be very stubborn.
for fear that —often used after an expression denoting fear or apprehension
He was concerned lest anyone think that he was guilty.
in addition : ALSO —often used to introduce a statement that adds to and is related to a previous statement
She is an acclaimed painter who is likewise a sculptor.
at or during the same time : in the meantime
You can set the table. Meanwhile, I'll start making dinner.
BESIDES, FURTHER : in addition to what has been said —used to introduce a statement that supports or adds to a previous statement
It probably wouldn't work. Moreover, it would be very expensive to try it.
in spite of that : HOWEVER
It was a predictable, but nevertheless funny, story.
in spite of what has just been said : NEVERTHELESS
The hike was difficult, but fun nonetheless.
without being prevented by (something) : despite—used to say that something happens or is true even though there is something that might prevent it from happening or being true
Notwithstanding their youth and inexperience, the team won the championship.
if not : or else
Finish your dinner. Otherwise, you won't get any dessert.
more correctly speaking —used to introduce a statement that corrects what you have just said
We can take the car, or rather, the van.
in spite of that —used to say that something happens or is true even though there is something that might prevent it from happening or being true
I tried again and still I failed.
by that : by that means
He signed the contract, thereby forfeiting his right to the property.
for that reason : because of that
This tablet is thin and light and therefore very convenient to carry around.
immediately after that
The committee reviewed the documents and thereupon decided to accept the proposal.
because of this or that : HENCE, CONSEQUENTLY
This detergent is highly concentrated and thus you will need to dilute it.
while on the contrary —used to make a statement that describes how two people, groups, etc., are different
Some of these species have flourished, whereas others have struggled.
NEVERTHELESS, HOWEVER —used to introduce a statement that adds something to a previous statement and usually contrasts with it in some way
It was pouring rain out, yet his clothes didn’t seem very wet.
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54 Best Transition Words for Paragraphs
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Good transition words for starting a paragraph include addition phrases like ‘furthermore’, cause and effect words like ‘consequently’, and contradiction words like ‘however’. Scroll down for a full table of transition words.
Using transition words in your writing can help you improve the readability and flow of your paragraph to the next.
These words help your text flow seamlessly into the next idea, which shows your readers the relationship between paragraphs and phrases.
List of Transition Words for Starting a Paragraph
Transition words can fall into more than one category based on what type of transition in your paragraph you’re planning to make.
For example, you’d want a different transition word if your second paragraph contradicts your first than if it supports it. Take the following examples:
Second body paragraph statement in the first body paragraph | Furthermore, What’s more, Similarly, Supporting evidence finds, Likewise. |
Second body paragraph statement in the first body paragraph | However, Nevertheless, Contradictory evidence finds, Despite the above points. |
Here is a list of transition words and what category they fall under.
- Addition – A transition that combines two or more ideas and shows their relationship. Examples include, what’s more, equally important, again, also, and, furthermore, moreover, besides .
- Cause and Effect – When one idea triggers another. This lets the reader know that they are directly connected. Examples include, consequently, hence, therefore, thus, next, as a result .
- Clarification – This is to rephrase what was said to clarify a statement and provide emphasis. Examples include, in other words, that is to say, to clarify.
- Compare and Contrast – This shows a relationship between two ideas that are compared based on differences or similarities. Examples are, after all, although this may be true, in contrast, likewise, on the contrary, similarly, whereas, yet.
- Emphasis (Boosting) – This shows certainty. Examples include, emphatically, in fact, surprisingly, undeniably, in any case, indeed, never, without a doubt.
- Providing examples : For example, for instance, as illustrated by, take the following case in point.
- Exception or Contradiction – This happens when an action with a pre-conceived notion ends with a different action. Examples are, however, nevertheless, in spite of, of course, once in a while, despite.
- Summarize or conclude – This signals the reader that they are at the end of the paragraph. Examples are, as this essay has shown, as a result, In conclusion, therefore, thus, hence, in short, in brief.
- Sequential – This expresses a numerical sequence, conclusion, continuation, resumption, or summation. Examples are to change the topic, to conclude with, afterward, incidentally, by the way, initially.
List of Transition Words for New Paragraphs
Emphatically, In fact, Surprisingly, Undeniably, Without a doubt, Indeed, Of course, Surely, Undoubtedly, Without a doubt. | |
Furthermore, Moreover, Supporting the above points, Similar research has found, In fact ( ). | |
To demonstrate, Evidence of this fact can be seen in, Proof of this point is found in, For instance, Compelling evidence shows, For a case in point, In fact, Notably, One study found, Supporting evidence shows. ( ). | |
Consequently, Hence, Therefore, Thus, As a result, accordingly, The consequence is. | |
In other words, That is to say, To clarify, For example, More evidence can be found, Furthermore. | |
However, However, Conversely, Despite this, In spite of the above statements, Nonetheless, Nevertheless, A contradictory argument, Regardless. | |
As this essay has shown, In conclusion, To summarize, The balance of evidence finds, The research compellingly indicates | |
Firstly, Secondly, Thirdly, Subsequently, Next, Afterwards, Later, Consequently. |
Transition Words to Avoid
I recommend avoiding the following transition words:
Your teacher may write: “If you mentioned this before, why are you saying it again?” | |
This is a cliché transition word for beginning conclusion paragraphs. Instead, try using the callback method discussed in my . | |
Too colloquial. Try using more formal language such as: “The weight of evidence finds…” | |
Many teachers don’t like first person language in essays. Use third person language and back claims up with academic research rather than personal opinion (except if it’s a reflective piece). | |
Teachers like to pick at you if you talk in generalizations. Instead, hedge your statements by saying “Sometimes”, “Often”, or “The majority of” and back this up with references. |
Examples in Sentences
The best way to understand transition words is to provide examples. Let’s look at this sentence:
“Amy did not study for her test. Therefore, she did not get a good result.”
When you see the word ‘therefore,’ the reader knows that this is a cause and effect. What happened in the first sentence caused a resulting action.
The transition word provided a seamless flow into the next sentence that describes this effect.
Using the transitional word, ‘therefore,’ shows that the two sentences are part of one idea/process. Even with skimming, the reader can guess what’s the resulting action. This is how transition words hold your ideas together. Without them, it’s like your piece is just a jumble of coherent words.
Transition words don’t have to be placed at the start of a sentence. Let’s look at this sentence:
“Many people came to the event. Cristine, Emily, and David, for instance.”
In this sentence, ‘for instance’ is at the end of the sentence. However, it still gives the reader the necessary information to see how the two sentences are linked.
What are Transition Words?
Transition words for beginning paragraphs help writers to introduce a shift, opposition, contrast, agreement, emphasis, purpose, result, or conclusion from what was previously written. They are essential in argumentative essays.
Transition words are like bridges between the different paragraphs in your pieces. They serve as the cues that help your reader understand your ideas. They carry your ideas from one sentence to the next and one paragraph to the next.
Transitional words and phrases link an idea from a sentence to the following paragraph, so your work is read smoothly without abrupt jumps or sudden breaks between concepts.
Why use Transition Words
Proper communication of your ideas through paragraphs is important in writing. In order for your reader to read your piece with a thorough understanding of each idea and point conveyed in the piece, you have to use transition words and phrases.
With the examples provided, you would see that transitions string together your ideas by establishing a clear connection between the sentences and paragraphs.
Without transition words, your work may seem daunting and stressful to read, and the reader will not understand the idea you’re trying to convey.
Transitional phrases are especially important when writing an essay or thesis statement , as each paragraph has to connect ideas effortlessly.
Therefore, when a paragraph ends, the next idea must have some link to the previous one, which is why transition words play an important role.
Where Else to use Transition Words in an Essay
Transition words are important English devices for essays and papers. They enhance the transitions and connections between the sentences and paragraphs, giving your essay a flowing structure and logical thought.
Transition terms may seem easy to remember; however, placing them in the incorrect manner can cause your essay to fall flat.
Here are some places where essays transition words may fit:
- To show a connection between evidence and the ending
- To flow into the next paragraph, use your closing statement at the conclusion of each one
- At the start of the first body paragraph
- At the start of the second body paragraph
- In some of the starting sections of your summary or introductory paragraphs
- In an overview of your opinions/solutions in the conclusion
When adding your transition words and phrases in your essay, make sure not to accidentally form an incomplete or fragmented sentence. This is common with transitions, such as, if, although, and since .
While transition words are important in any writing piece, you have to make sure that the word or phrase you choose matches the logic of the paragraph or point you’re making. Use these words and phrases in moderation, as too much of them can also heavily bring the quality of your work down.
- Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd/ 19 Top Cognitive Psychology Theories (Explained)
- Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd/ 119 Bloom’s Taxonomy Examples
- Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd/ All 6 Levels of Understanding (on Bloom’s Taxonomy)
- Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd/ 15 Self-Actualization Examples (Maslow's Hierarchy)
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Transition words for essays
The right transition words can transform a mediocre essay into a great paper. In this post, we discuss why effective transitions can substantially improve the quality and readability of your essay and provide examples of commonly used transition words.
What are transitions?
Transitions are the places in your paper where you move on to a new idea or paragraph. They may also be points at which you want to add to, expand upon, or conclude a previous statement.
The best transitions are signaled clearly by keywords and phrases that let the reader know that you’re moving on. Transition words typically occur at the beginning of a sentence.
How do transition words improve your essay?
Quality transitions are often the difference between a decent essay and a strong one. Transition words give clear signals to the reader that you are moving on to a new idea and this enables them to more easily follow your argument.
When a reader can efficiently follow the main threads of your paper, then they are more likely to be persuaded by your argument, which is the point of papers like argumentative essays .
Types of transition words
The transition words that you use in your paper will naturally depend on what kind of transition you’re making. In this section, we break down the main types of transitions that you might use in your essay and provide examples of common transition words.
Adding a point
There may be multiple times throughout a paper where you want to add to a point that you made or that came from one of your sources. To signal this, you might use one of the following phrases:
- additionally
- furthermore
- in addition
Elaborating on a point
At other times, you may need to expand, or elaborate upon, a previously stated idea. In that case, you may utilize one of these keywords:
- by extension
- in other words
- put differently
Introducing examples
Sometimes you may want to introduce an example that illustrates a previous point. To introduce examples, you can use one of the following phrases:
- for example
- for instance
- specifically
- to take a case in point
Indicating comparisons and contrasts
Some types of essays, like position papers, require you to introduce contrasting points of view. In order to transition from one perspective to another, you may want to use a transition word or phrase that signals a comparison or contrast:
Comparison :
- along the same lines
- in the same way
- in the same vein
- by contrast
- even though
- in contrast
- nevertheless
- nonetheless
- on the contrary
- on the other hand
Showing cause and effect
If you’re building an argument and you want to indicate that one point is dependent on another, you might want to employ one of these phrases to signal that transition:
- accordingly
- as a result
- consequently
When you are ready to conclude a point or prepare your reader for your paper’s conclusion, it’s important to signal that you’re at that stage. Consider using one of these transition words to do so:
- in conclusion
- to summarize
If you are transitioning between your own words and borrowed material from secondary sources, be sure to properly cite any ideas that aren’t your own. You can use the BibGuru citation generator to create instant, accurate citations for a range of source types, including books , articles , and websites .
Frequently Asked Questions about transition words for essays
Commonly used transition words include: additionally, although, as a result, for example, for instance, however, moreover, therefore, thus, and ultimately.
To link two points together, or to add to a previous point, you might use transition words like:
The most popular types of transitions are those that introduce examples or that add to, elaborate upon, compare or contrast, or conclude a previous point.
To signal a transition in an essay, use a transition word or phrase. Choose a phrase based on the kind of transition that you’re making.
Transition words give clear signals to the reader that you are moving on to a new idea and or that you want to add to, expand, or conclude a previous point. Transition words can also be used to introduce examples and to indicate a comparison or contrast.
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Essay Writing Guide
Transition Words For Essays
Last updated on: Dec 19, 2023
220 Best Transition Words for Essays
By: Nova A.
15 min read
Reviewed By: Jacklyn H.
Published on: Jul 9, 2019
Writing essays can be hard, and making sure your transitions are smooth is even harder.
You've probably heard that good essays need good transitions, but what are they? How do you use them in your writing? Also, your essays are assessed according to particular criteria and it is your responsibility to ensure that it is being met.
But don't worry, we are here to help. This blog will give you transition words for essays, including how to choose the right ones and where to place them for maximum impact. Essay writing is a technical process that requires much more effort than simply pouring your thoughts on paper.
If you are new to the concept of transition words and phrases, deep dive into this article in order to find out the secret to improving your essays.
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What Are Transition Words
Transition words are essential elements in essay writing that create smooth transitions between ideas.
Think of a transition as a conjunction or a joining word. It helps create strong relationships between ideas, paragraphs, or sentences and assists the readers to understand the word phrases and sentences easily.
As writers, our goal is to communicate our thoughts and ideas in the most clear and logical manner. Especially when presenting complex ideas, we must ensure that they are being conveyed in the most understandable way.
To ensure that your paper is easy to understand, you can work on the sequencing of ideas. Break down your ideas into different sentences and paragraphs then use a transition word or phrase to guide them through these ideas.
Why Should You Use Transitions
The purpose of transition words goes beyond just connectivity. They create a cohesive narrative , allowing your ideas to flow seamlessly from one point to another. These words and phrases act as signposts and indicate relationships.
These relations could include:
- Cause and Effect
- Comparison and Contrast
- Addition and Emphasis
- Sequence and Order
- Illustration and Example
- Concession and Contradiction
- Summary and Conclusion
They form a bridge and tie sentences together, creating a logical connection. In addition to tying the entire paper together, they help demonstrate the writer’s agreement, disagreement, conclusion, or contrast.
However, keep in mind that just using or including transitional words isn’t enough to highlight relationships between ideas. The content of your paragraphs must support the relationship as well. So, you should avoid overusing them in a paper.
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Types of Transitions
Transitions in essays can be classified into different types based on the relationships they indicate between ideas. Each type serves a specific purpose in guiding readers through your arguments.
Let's explore some common types of transitions and their examples:
Additive Transitions
These transitions are used to add information or ideas. They help you expand on your points or provide additional supporting evidence. Examples:
- In addition
- Furthermore
- Additionally
- Not only... but also
- Coupled with
Adversative Transitions
Adversative transitions show contrast or contradiction between ideas. They are used to present opposing viewpoints or highlight differences. Examples:
- Nevertheless
- On the other hand
- In contrast
Causal Transitions
Causal transitions explain cause-and-effect relationships. They help you establish the reasons behind certain outcomes or actions. Examples:
- As a result
- Consequently
- Resulting in
- For this reason
Sequential Transitions
Sequential transitions indicate the order or sequence of events or ideas. They help you present your thoughts in a logical and organized manner. Examples:
- Subsequently
- In the meantime
- Simultaneously
Comparative Transitions
Comparative transitions highlight similarities or comparisons between ideas. They help you draw connections and illustrate relationships. Here are some transition words for essays examples:
- In the same way
- Compared to
- In comparison
- Correspondingly
- By the same token
- Equally important
- Analogous to
Getting started on your essay? Check out this insightful read on essay writing to make sure you ace it!
List of Good Transition Words for Essays
As mentioned above, there are different categories of transitions that serve a unique purpose. Understanding these different types will help you pick the most suitable word or phrase to communicate your message.
Here we have categorized the best transition words for essays so you can use them appropriately!
Transition Words for Argumentative Essays
In argumentative essays , the effective use of transition words is essential for presenting a well-structured and coherent argument.
To begin with | To show | By contrast | One alternative is |
Chiefly | Mainly | To put it more simply | At the same time |
On the contrary | Even if ‘A’ is true | Afterall | With this in mind |
All things considered | As a result | To clarify | Generally speaking |
Another way to view this | That is to say | Yet another | Another possibility is |
Transition Words for Compare and Contrast Essays
In compare and contrast essays , transition words play a crucial role in highlighting the similarities and differences between the subjects being compared.
Here are a few transition words that are particularly useful in compare and contrast essays:
Despite | In contrast | Nevertheless | On the contrary |
On the other hand | Otherwise | As an illustration | That is |
Conversely | In spite of | Similarly | At the same time |
Likewise | Still | In a similar fashion | Equally |
Also | Yet | But | Simultaneously |
Transition Words for Cause and Effect Essays
In cause and effect essays , transition words help illustrate the relationships between causes and their corresponding effects.
Here are a few transition words that are particularly useful in cause-and-effect essays:
As a result | Under those circumstances | Thus | In effect |
For this reason | Thereupon | Henceforth | Accordingly |
Consequently | Because | Since | Otherwise |
Due to | So | As a | Hence |
In order to | If…then | For | Afterward |
Transition Words for Different Parts of Essays
Transition words are valuable tools that can be used throughout different parts of an essay to create a smooth and coherent flow. By understanding the appropriate transition words for each section, you can logically connect your ideas.
Introduction Transition Words for Essays
Introductions are one of the most impactful parts of the essay. It's important that it connects logically with the rest of the essay. To do this, you can utilize different transition words for essays to start. Here are some starting transition words for essays:
Generally speaking | In the first place | To begin with | To be sure |
Assuredly | Earlier | First of all | The next step |
As you can see | For now | In time | Once and for all |
First... second... third... | To put it differently | Foundationally | In addition |
Basically | Furthermore | Besides | In the meantime |
Transition Words for Essays Body Paragraph
In an essay, body paragraphs play a crucial role in presenting and developing your ideas. To ensure a logical flow within each body paragraph, the strategic use of transition words is essential.
Here are lists of transitions for essays for different body paragraphs:
Transition Words for Essays for First Body Paragraph
Here is a list of transition words that you can use for the first body paragraph of an essay:
Firstly | To start off | Primarily | Another important factor is |
To begin with | In the beginning | Above all | It is worth mentioning |
Initially | At the outset | Most importantly | An additional aspect to consider is |
In the first place | For a start | Essential to note | What's more |
First and foremost | As a first step | One key point is | Furthermore |
Transition Words for Essays Second Body Paragraph
Here is a list of transition words for the second body paragraph of an essay:
Additionally | Likewise | Furthermore, it is essential to consider | Correspondingly |
Moreover | Similarly | Moreover, it should be noted that | In the same way |
Furthermore | Equally important | In a similar vein | As well as |
In addition to | Another key point is | Alongside this | Similarly, it can be argued that |
Besides | Not only... but also | Coupled with this | Furthermore, evidence suggests |
Transition Words for Essays Third Body Paragraph
Another significant point is | Likewise | Moreover, it should be highlighted that |
Notably | Correspondingly | Furthermore, it is crucial to consider |
Besides | Equally important | Alongside this |
Furthermore, it is important to note | Furthermore, evidence supports | In a similar fashion |
Similarly | Additionally, research shows | Lastly, it is worth noting |
Transition Words for Essays Last Body Paragraph
In light of this | Coupled with this insight | Furthermore, it is imperative to address | As an extension of this |
Building upon that | Adding to the discussion | Another notable factor is | Digging deeper into the topic |
Moreover, it is crucial to mention | Expanding on this idea | In a related vein | In a similar line of thought |
In a similar fashion | Taking a step further | Similarly, it is worth considering | Elaborating on this concept |
Not to mention | Additionally, it is important to highlight | In the same breath | Correspondingly, it is crucial to explore |
Transition Words for Essays Conclusion
Here is a list of ending transition words for essays:
All things considered | Given these points | In summary | To summarize |
In short | Briefly | After all | That is to say |
Finally | All in all | In the final analysis | As previously stated |
In essence | Ultimately | To sum up | On the whole |
By and large | Overall | Everything considered | Taking everything into account |
Do’s and Don’ts of Using Essay Transitions
When it comes to using transitions in your essay, there are certain do's and don'ts that can help you effectively enhance the flow of your writing. Here are some key guidelines to keep in mind:
- Add transitions only when introducing new ideas.
- Go through the paper to make sure they make sense.
- Start by creating an outline, so you know what ideas to share and how.
- Use different transitions for each idea.
- Don’t overuse them.
- Don’t keep adding transitions in the same paragraph.
- Don’t completely rely on transitions to signal relationships.
- Don’t incorporate it into your content without understanding its usage.
By now, you have probably understood how transition words can save you from disjointed and directionless paragraphs. They are the missing piece that indicates how ideas are related to one another. You can also generate more essays with our AI powered essay writer to learn the art of transitioning smoothly from one paragraph to another.
If you are still unable to distinguish transitions to open or conclude your essays, don’t be upset - these things require time and practice.
If you are looking for the perfect essay-writing service, get in touch with the expert writers at 5StarEssays.com. We will include the right transitions according to the type of paper, ensuring a coherent flow of ideas.
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As a Digital Content Strategist, Nova Allison has eight years of experience in writing both technical and scientific content. With a focus on developing online content plans that engage audiences, Nova strives to write pieces that are not only informative but captivating as well.
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110 Transition Words for Essays: Student's Helpful Guide
Ever found yourself staring at a blank screen, wondering how to smoothly sail from one idea to the next? Wondering how to glue those paragraphs together without sounding like a robot? That's why I'm here to share some simple yet powerful techniques to help you connect your ideas seamlessly because, let's face it, writing essays can be tough!
In this article, I'm going to walk you through everything you need to know about transition words for essays. From basic definitions to practical examples, you'll find everything right here. Whether you're working on an English assignment or crafting a college application essay, mastering these transition words will surely impress your teachers or admissions officers.
What are Transition Words?
First, let's find out what are transition words in an essay. Also known as linking or connecting words, transition words hold your essay together. They help establish connections between ideas, sentences, and paragraphs, creating a smooth and cohesive flow in your writing.
These words can indicate various relationships, such as addition, contrast, comparison, cause and effect, and sequence. Examples include 'however,' 'in addition,' 'on the other hand,' 'therefore,' 'finally,' and many more.
Transition words not only make your writing clearer and easier to follow but also add sophistication and coherence to your essay. They show that you've thoughtfully structured your ideas and that your argument progresses logically from one point to the next.
Types of Transition Words
Now that you understand that transition words lead readers smoothly through your ideas, let's delve into the different types you'll use:
Between Sections : These transition words help signal shifts between major parts or sections of your writing. They provide a roadmap for your reader to navigate through your text. Examples include:
For instance, if you're writing a travel guide about Italy, you might transition from talking about the north to the south using words like ' Firstly , let's explore the charms of Northern Italy.'
Between Paragraphs : These words are used to smoothly transition from one paragraph to the next. They maintain the flow of your essay and help connect related ideas. Examples include:
If you're writing a paper on the benefits of reading, you might transition from discussing cognitive benefits in one paragraph to emotional benefits in the next, saying, ' Moreover , beyond its cognitive advantages, reading also fosters emotional intelligence.'
Within Paragraphs : These transition words help connect sentences within the same paragraph, ensuring coherence and logical progression. Examples include:
- For example
- On the other hand
- In addition
Within a paragraph about the impact of technology on communication, you might transition from discussing social media to email communication, saying, ' In addition to social media platforms, email remains a crucial tool for professional communication.'
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How To Use Transition Words in An Essay?
To figure out if you need a transition word at the start of a sentence or paragraph, think about how it changes your writing's flow and clarity. Compare sentences with and without the transition word to see how it affects how clear and connected your ideas are.
Without Transition Words | With Transition Words |
---|---|
The weather was sunny. We decided to go for a picnic. | The weather was sunny. , we decided to go for a picnic. |
He was tired. He still went to work. | he was tired, he still went to work. |
She loves to dance. She is taking ballet classes. | She loves to dance. , she is taking ballet classes. |
The movie was boring. I fell asleep. | the movie was boring, I fell asleep. |
The traffic was heavy. I arrived late. | the heavy traffic, I arrived late. |
He forgot his umbrella. He got soaked in the rain. | he forgot his umbrella, he got soaked in the rain. |
She studied hard. She passed the exam. | her hard work, she passed the exam. |
The restaurant was crowded. We decided to leave. | the crowded restaurant, we decided to leave. |
Transition Words Examples
Contradictions.
Contradictory transition words help you introduce opposing viewpoints, bring up counterarguments, or explain exceptions to what you've said before. Using these words adds more layers to your arguments, making readers think about different angles of the topic. You'd usually use them when you want to:
- Acknowledge opposing viewpoints or arguments.
- Present exceptions or qualifications to your main point.
- Introduce contrasting evidence or examples.
Here's a list of contradiction transition words to enhance your essay:
- Nevertheless
- On the contrary
- Nonetheless
- Despite this
- In contrast
- In spite of
- Notwithstanding
Transition words indicating addition play a crucial role in signaling the inclusion of further information, ideas, or examples to support your main argument or thesis statement. They function by expanding upon what has already been stated and adding depth or breadth to your writing. Addition transitions should be used when you want to:
- Introduce additional information or examples.
- Provide further support or evidence for your argument.
- Extend or elaborate on a previously mentioned idea.
Here's a list of addition transition words:
- Additionally
- Furthermore
These transition words function by signaling that you are about to provide an example to clarify or reinforce your argument. Example transition words should be used when you want to:
- Provide specific instances, evidence, or anecdotes to support your argument.
- Clarify or reinforce a point with concrete examples.
- Illustrate the relevance or applicability of a concept with real-life scenarios.
Here's a list of example transition words:
- For instance
- Specifically
- To illustrate
- As an example
- As evidence
- In particular
- To demonstrate
- In other words
- In this case
- To give an example
Cause and Effect
Transition words showing cause and effect are important for explaining why things happen and what results from them. They connect the reasons to the outcomes, helping readers see how everything fits together. They should be used when you want to:
- Explain the reasons behind a particular occurrence or phenomenon.
- Describe the consequences or outcomes of an action or event.
- Illustrate causal relationships between different elements in your essay.
Here's a list of cause-and-effect transition words:
- As a result
- Consequently
- Accordingly
- Resulting in
Clarification
Transition words for clarification work by giving more details or explaining something you've already said. When you use them right, they help get rid of any confusion and make sure your ideas make sense together. You'd use clarification transitions words when you want to:
- Provide further explanation or detail on a previously mentioned concept.
- Clarify ambiguous or complex ideas to ensure reader comprehension.
- Elaborate on a point to provide context or support for your argument.
Here are examples:
- Put differently
- That is to say
- In simpler terms
- To explain further
- What this means is
- To put it another way
- To rephrase
- To expand on this
- To elaborate
- Let me clarify
- Allow me to explain
These transition words work by letting readers know that you're finishing up a section or summarizing what you've talked about. They remind readers of the key points, give a sense of closure, and leave a strong impression. You'd use summary transition words when you want to:
- Recapitulate the main points or arguments presented in your essay.
- Provide a concise overview or synthesis of key ideas.
- Signal the conclusion of a section or the end of your writing.
Examples include:
- In conclusion
- To conclude
- To summarize
- As a final point
Space, time, and location
These specific transition words assist in showing when things happen or where they happen in your essay. They give context and make it easier for readers to understand changes in setting, time, or place. You'd use these transition words when you want to:
- Indicate changes in physical space, time, or location.
- Provide context or clarify spatial, temporal, or geographical relationships.
- Transition smoothly between different settings, time periods, or locations.
Here are some good examples:
- In front of
- Across from
- In the past
- At the same time
Transition words for sequencing help keep your essay organized and easy to follow, especially when you're talking about a series of events, steps, or ideas in order of when they happen. They work by showing the order in which things happen so readers can understand the story or argument better. Use these words when you want to:
- Present events, steps, or ideas in chronological order.
- Signal the sequence of actions or processes.
- Provide a clear and logical structure to your essay.
Here's a list of examples:
- Subsequently
- In the meantime
- In the first place
- In the second place
Transition words for similarity are used to tell readers that two or more ideas, concepts, or examples have things in common. You'd use similarity transition words when you want to:
- Highlight similarities or parallels between different ideas, concepts, or examples.
- Compare and contrast different elements to illustrate commonalities.
- Emphasize shared characteristics or attributes to support your argument or thesis.
- In the same vein
- Similarly to
- Analogously
- Correspondingly
- In a similar fashion
- Comparable to
- Along the same lines
- By the same token
Time Relations
These transition words work by making a clear timeline so readers can understand the order in which things happen. Use them when you want to:
- Indicate the passage of time or temporal order of events.
- Signal transitions between different time periods or stages.
- Provide context or clarify the timing of actions or events.
- Simultaneously
Lastly, transition words for chronology are employed to keep your essay organized and easy to follow, especially when you're talking about a series of events, steps, or processes in the order they happened. Here are some instances when you should use them:
- Present events, steps, or processes in the order in which they occurred.
- Signal the passage of time or the progression of a narrative.
- Provide a clear timeline or sequence of actions.
Here's a list of chronology transition words:
- In the beginning
- Following that
Tips for Using Transition Words Effectively in an Essay
Here are some simple tips to remember when using transition words for essays:
- Avoid overwhelming your essay with transition words. Use them to connect ideas or show relationships, but avoid excessive use, which can confuse readers.
- Select transition words that match the tone and purpose of your essay. Choose words that make sense within your context, such as 'but' or 'however' for contrasting points.
- Transition words should seamlessly integrate into your sentences, guiding readers without causing disruptions.
- Stick to straightforward transition words that are easy to understand. Complexity can confuse readers, so opt for clarity.
- After writing, double-check your transition words. Replace any that don't enhance the flow or clarity of your essay.
Final Words
As we come to the end of our journey through the world of transition words, I hope you're feeling more confident about using these powerful tools in your writing. I used to struggle with making my essays flow smoothly, but now, with the help of transition words, my writing feels like a well-oiled machine. It's amazing how a simple 'however' or 'in addition' can make such a big difference in how my ideas come across. So, as I sign off, I want to encourage you to embrace transition words in your writing. Trust me, they'll become your best friends in no time!
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Comprehensive List of Transition Words and Phrases for Essays
If you’re a student, you might have heard about transition words and phrases a lot. They help to connect paragraphs and sentences, smoothly move from one point to another and maintain a logical flow. But, sometimes it is hard to choose a suitable transition word or phrase, as it is impossible to keep them all in mind.
Don’t worry, we are here to explain everything about transition words and which of them to choose in different situations. This article will help you to understand what types of transition words for essays exist, why it is critical to use them, and what words are good for different types of transitions.
Table of Contents
Why Should You Know the Best Transition Words for Essays?
As we said earlier, transition words for essays are tools for maintaining logical flow. Without them, the text can be hard to read. The reader can get confused if you move from discussing one idea to another, and it can dramatically impact the readers’ perception of your points. Thus, transition words and phrases are critical for the readability of any essay, including those you write as part of your academic assignments, such as when you write a research paper .
Basically, there are 3 types of transition words for essays, which are distinguished by their purpose:
- Transitions between paragraphs: Help to ensure a smooth transition between paragraphs. For example, if you finish discussing one point and want to move to another one.
- Transitions between sentences: Ensure a sentence flow and link all sentences in a paragraph to make it clear for the reader how they’re connected.
- Transitions between chapters: In lengthy papers, such as dissertations or term papers, transition words can help to show the connection between different sections.
Also, transition words are divided into categories according to the type of transition. For example, there are words that help to show contrast, similarity, connect cause and effect, etc. We will tell you more about it in the next section.
List of Transition Words for Essays
For every type of transition, there are many words you can choose from. It helps to avoid the repetition of the same transition words and phrases and improves the readability of the text. Down below you can find lists with transition words and phrases for different purposes. Find what type of transition you need and use the words from the list in your essay.
Cause and Effect
- In order to
- For this reason
- As a result
- With this in mind
- Because of.
- Furthermore
- Correspondingly
- Additionally
- Together with
- At the same time.
Contrast and Comparison
- Of contrast
- Despite this
- Even though
- In comparison
Enumeration and Addition
- First of all
Illustration
- As an example
- For instance
- In this case
- Illustrated by
- Specifically.
- In conclusion
- To conclude
- As has been noted
- To summarize
Advanced Transition Words for Essays
Transition words ensure smooth transitions between paragraphs and improve the coherence of the essay. Your readers will clearly understand how you develop your ideas and what are the relationships between them. Also, transition words can prepare your readers for what’s coming next, which ensures that they will not get lost in the text. Thus, it is essential to use transition words and phrases to create a strong essay.
In the list above we already provide some of the common transition words for essays. But here are some advanced phrases you can use to improve your essay:
- Consequently
- In the light of
- To put it differently
- The most compelling evidence
- With attention to
- In the foreground
- All things considered.
How to Use Strong Transition Words for Essays to Improve a Sentence Flow
If you’re not a professional paper writer , it can be a bit hard for you at the beginning to choose the most suitable transition words and use them in the correct way. But don’t worry, we have a few tips on how to correctly use these words in your essay:
- Choose transition words for essays wisely. First, understand what type of transition words you need, then take a look at the needed category, and choose the most suitable one.
- Don’t use them when it’s unnecessary. For beginners, this can be tricky to understand whether you need a transition word between certain sentences or not. We recommend to re-read the two sentences or paragraphs you are not sure about and if it is easy to understand the relationship between them, there is no need to use a transition word.
- Transition words should never be at the end of sentences. It simply makes no sense and only can confuse your readers. Thus, if you need to show the connection between two sentences, always put a transition word or phrase at the beginning of the second sentence.
We hope these tips and the list of transition words and phrases will help you to create a good essay with well-connected paragraphs. No need to remember all the words, you can use our list with transition words for essays any time you work on an academic paper and easily choose the most suitable words.
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Find a list of words and phrases that can help you express your opinion in writing. Learn how to use introductory words, transitions, and opinion clues to organize your ideas and support your claims.
Transitional words and phrases can create powerful links between ideas in your paper and can help your reader understand the logic of your paper. However, these words all have different meanings, nuances, and connotations. Before using a particular transitional word in your paper, be sure you understand its meaning and usage completely and be sure…
Archaic transition words. Words like "hereby," "therewith," and most others formed by the combination of "here," "there," or "where" with a preposition are typically avoided in modern academic writing. Using them makes your writing feel old-fashioned and strained and can sometimes obscure your meaning.
Transitions. Transitions help your readers move between ideas within a paragraph, between paragraphs, or between sections of your argument. When you are deciding how to transition from one idea to the next, your goal should be to help readers see how your ideas are connected—and how those ideas connect to the big picture.
In Your Essay . Take a look in at an assignment you are working and fnd places where a transitional word or phrase might improve your writing. A good way to tell if you might need to add a transitional word of phrase is to read your work aloud. If an idea seems disjointed or if a shift in a description or idea is confusing, you might want to ...
All in all. Pro tip: Words like 'for', 'and', 'nor', 'but', 'or', 'yet', and 'since' shouldn't be used at the beginning of a sentence if you're writing a formal essay. "The best part of your story is when it changes.". - Bella Bloom Bonus material - a printable PDF chart with link words (always keep it ...
Transition words for essays with examples. Here are examples of sentences using each of the transition words for cause: Additionally: "She enjoys playing the piano. Additionally, she is proficient in playing the guitar.". Furthermore: "The research indicated a positive correlation between exercise and mental health.
Transition Words for Stating Your Opinion. In many types of essays, you will need to state your opinion about the main issue contained in your essay. Supplying your opinion can make your essay more personal and multi-dimensional. Often, teachers ask students to give their opinion on heated topics to demonstrate critical thinking.
The transition words like also, in addition, and, likewise, add information, reinforce ideas, and express agreement with preceding material. in the first place. not only ... but also. as a matter of fact. in like manner. in addition. coupled with. in the same fashion / way. first, second, third.
33 Transition Words and Phrases. 'Besides,' 'furthermore,' 'although,' and other words to help you jump from one idea to the next. Transitional terms give writers the opportunity to prepare readers for a new idea, connecting the previous sentence to the next one. Many transitional words are nearly synonymous: words that broadly indicate that ...
like, likewise, just, in a different way / sense, whereas, like, equally, in like manner, by comparison, similar to, in the same way, alike, similarity, similarly, just as, as in a similar fashion, conversely. 6. Illustration: use to develop or clarify an idea, to introduce examples, or to show that the second idea is subordinate to the first.
OPINION ESSAY- EXPRESSIONS AND LINKERS YOU CAN USE TO EXPRESS OPINION To express opinion In my opinion, Personally, I think/ I believe (that I strongly believe that…. It is clear (to me) that I (completely) agree/disagree with … It seems to me that… As I see it, … In my view,...
These transitional words (like finally) have the function of limiting, restricting, and defining time. They can be used either alone or as part of adverbial expressions. at the present time. from time to time. sooner or later. at the same time. up to the present time. to begin with.
The last thing you want is your transition words to feel trite and uninspired. Discover what these words are and a variety of examples for your writing here. ... there are a few things you can look for to know when you should include transition words in your essay. 1. Section Sounds Choppy or Abrupt. If the paragraph or sentence you are writing ...
In my opinion, I feel like, In my experience ... Where Else to use Transition Words in an Essay. Transition words are important English devices for essays and papers. They enhance the transitions and connections between the sentences and paragraphs, giving your essay a flowing structure and logical thought.
In order to transition from one perspective to another, you may want to use a transition word or phrase that signals a comparison or contrast: Comparison: along the same lines. in the same way. likewise. similarly. in the same vein. Contrast: although.
Transitional Words & Phrases The word transition means change or passage. Transitions establish relationships between parts of your essay that a reader will need in order to fully understand the points you are making. Effective transitions are achieved in two ways: by using transitional words and expressions, and by carefully repeating words ...
In argumentative essays, the effective use of transition words is essential for presenting a well-structured and coherent argument. To begin with. To show. By contrast. One alternative is. Chiefly. Mainly. To put it more simply. At the same time.
Tips for Using Transition Words Effectively in an Essay. Here are some simple tips to remember when using transition words: Avoid overwhelming your essay with transition words. Use them to connect ideas or show relationships, but avoid excessive use, which can confuse readers. Select transition words that match the tone and purpose of your essay.
List of Transition Words for Essays. For every type of transition, there are many words you can choose from. It helps to avoid the repetition of the same transition words and phrases and improves the readability of the text. Down below you can find lists with transition words and phrases for different purposes.
-This product develops opinion and persuasive argument writing with use of transition words and graphic organizers. - This product contains 12 pros and cons evidence based articles for students to read and write their opinion about each topic for grades 4th, 5th, and 6th. There are advantages and disadvantages given for each of the 6 kid-interested topics.
-This product develops opinion and persuasive argument writing with use of transition words and graphic organizers. - This product contains 12 pros and cons evidence based articles for students to read and write their opinion about each topic for grades 4th, 5th, and 6th. There are advantages and disadvantages given for each of the 6 kid-interested topics.