Connectors in English: An easy guide to linking words [VIDEO]
Author:
Berlitz
In Dubai and across the UAE and the Gulf, you’ll see these words and phrases show up inreal-life conversations, study, and work. And, But, Nevertheless, However, Because, Furthermore.These seemingly simple words pack a punch, seamlessly linking ideas and propelling your message forward.
We call them transition words, linking words or connector sin English.Think of connectors as the handy tools that stitch your sentences together-making your writing flow smoothly, adding flavour and cohesion to your words, phrases and sentences.
If you’re ready to harness their power, join us in this mini-lesson (and the short video with Berlitz English teacher Luiz Chantre) as we unravel how to use linking words in English in simple, easy-to-understand terms.Throughout this article we’ll refer to them as connectors, linking words and transition words. Watch the video lesson, follow along in the blog article... or both!
The examples and practice ideas below are useful whether you’re preparing for a professional presentation in Dubai, writing an academic essay, or attending English classes at Berlitz Jumeirah Centre.
Connectors in English: Video lesson summary
Connectors are essential words that link phrases, clauses, or ideas to ensure clear, coherent communication. Mastering connectors is crucial for expanding vocabulary, understanding complex texts, and achieving success in proficiency tests like TOEFL and IELTS-tests commonly prepared for in business English and exam preparation courses at Jumeirah Centre.
Importance of linking words / connectors Enhance
cohesion and coherence in text
Aid in understanding complex ideas
Facilitate effective communication across multicultural workplaces in the UAE (hotels,finance, government, education)
Types of connector words in English
Adding information: and, also, moreover
Showing contrastbut, however, on the other hand Expressing cause and effect: because, therefore, so Making comparisons: As, like, similarly How to practise Understand the function of each connector Place connectors correctly in sentences Practice reading, writing and speaking with connectors-in class, one-to-one tuition, or conversation clubs at Berlitz Jumeirah Centre.
Why transition words matter (especially in the UAE)
Transition words help your ideas flow-a vital skill in international business emails,academic reports, and customer-facing communications in Dubai and across the United Arab Emirates. Mastering connectors:
Improves clarity and professional tone for emails to clients and colleagues in DIFC,hospitality, or government sectors Raises coherence in presentations and proposals (useful for corporate language training and workshops),
Link words, phrases or clauses of equal importance.
and-adds
Information
But-contrast
Or-alternatives
So-consequence
yet-contrast
2. Subordinating connectors
Link dependent and independent clauses; show relationships.
Because-causeal
Though-concession
while-simultaneous actions
since-reason/time
unless-condition
3. Correlative connectors
Work in pairs to connect similar elements.
both ... and
either ... not
only ... but
also whether ... or
as ... as
4. Adversative connectors
Express contrast or opposition.
However
Nevertheless
on the other hand
Instead
Conversely
(These are the same connector types you’ll practise during Business English and advanced grammar sessions at Jumeirah Centre.)
Examples of common linking words
Addition:
and,
also,
moreover
Contrast:
but,
however,
on the other hand
Cause & effect:
because,
therefore,
So
Comparison:
as,
Like,
similarly
More info:
furthermore,
in addition,
additionally
Result:
consequently,
thus,
as a result
Emphasis:
indeed,
certainly,
above all
Sequence:
firstly,
then,
Finally
Condition:
if,
Unless,
provided that
Illustration:
for example,
such as,
for instance
Use these in emails, reports, presentations and exam essays-all central to professional communication courses at Jumeirah Centre.
Teaching tips & classroom ideas (for UAEschools and corporate trainers)
Integrate connectors into themes relevant to learners (hospitality English, finance, vocabulary, customer service scenarios in Dubai).
Use blended learning: short video lessons + in-centre practice at Jumeirah Centre +homework on the LMS.
Assess use of connectors in spoken and written tasks-include this in placement tests and progress reports.
Run micro-workshops for staff on formal vs. informal connectors (email etiquette workshops are popular with Dubai companies).
Quick reference cheat-sheet (use in exams & meetings)
To add: and / moreover / in addition
To contrast: but / however / on the other hand
To show cause: because / therefore / as a result
To compare: like / as / similarly
To sequence: firstly / then / finally Stick this on your desk, phone or in your notebook during lessons at Berlitz Jumeirah Centre.
Final thoughts
For structured practice, Berlitz UAE can help-whether you learn at our Dubai branches(Jumeirah or JLT), study on-site in DIFC, or visit our Abu Dhabi branches in Khalidiya and Khalifa.
Connectors are the glue that binds your ideas. They transform simple sentences into clear,persuasive, and professional communication-exactly the skill set students build in English courses, business English,exam preparation and corporate training at Berlitz Jumeirah Centre.
Whether you’re a student preparing for IELTS/TOEFL, a professional refining
reports for a Dubai client, or a teacher planning grammar lessons, mastering connectors will make a noticeable difference.