Transitional Words & Phrases

Using transitional words and phrases helps papers read more smoothly, and at the same time allows the reader to flow more smoothly from one point to the next. Transitions enhance logical organization and understandability and improve the connections between thoughts. They indicate relations, whether within a sentence, paragraph, or paper. This list illustrates categories of "relationships" between ideas, followed by words and phrases that can make the connections: Addition: also, again, as well as, besides, coupled with, furthermore, in addition, likewise, moreover, similarly When there is a trusting relationship coupled with positive reinforcement, the partners will be able to overcome difficult situations. Consequence: accordingly, as a result, consequently, for this reason, for this purpose, hence, otherwise, so then, subsequently, therefore, thus, thereupon, wherefore Highway traffic came to a stop as a result of an accident that morning. Contrast and Comparison: contrast, by the same token, conversely, instead, likewise, on one hand, on the other hand, on the contrary, rather, similarly, yet, but, however, still, nevertheless, in contrast The children were very happy. On the other hand, and perhaps more importantly, their parents were very proactive in providing good care. Direction: here, there, over there, beyond, nearly, opposite, under, above, to the left, to the right, in the distance She scanned the horizon for any sign though in the distance she could not see the surprise coming her way. Diversion: by the way, incidentally He stumbled upon the nesting pair incidentally found only on this hill.

Emphasis above all, chiefly, with attention to, especially, particularly, singularly The Quakers gathered each month with attention to deciding the business of their Meeting. Exception: aside from, barring, beside, except, excepting, excluding, exclusive of, other than, outside of, save Consensus was arrived at by all of the members exclusive of those who could not vote. Exemplifying: chiefly, especially, for instance, in particular, markedly, namely, particularly, including, specifically, such as Some friends and I drove up the beautiful coast chiefly to avoid the heat island of the city. Generalizing: as a rule, as usual, for the most part, generally, generally speaking, ordinarily, usually There were a few very talented artists in the class, but for the most part the students only wanted to avoid the alternative course. Illustration: for example, for instance, for one thing, as an illustration, illustrated with, as an example, in this case The chapter provided complex sequences and examples illustrated with a very simple schematic diagram. Similarity: comparatively, coupled with, correspondingly, identically, likewise, similar, moreover, together with The research was presented in a very dry style though was coupled with examples that made the audience tear up. Restatement: in essence, in other words, namely, that is, that is to say, in short, in brief, to put it differently In their advertising business, saying things directly was not the rule. That is to say, they tried to convey the message subtly though with creativity. Sequence: at first, first of all, to begin with, in the first place, at the same time, for now, for the time being, the next step, in time, in turn, later on,

meanwhile, next, then, soon, the meantime, later, while, earlier, simultaneously, afterward, in conclusion, with this in mind, The music had a very retro sound but at the same time incorporated a complex modern rhythm. Summarizing: after all, all in all, all things considered, briefly, by and large, in any case, in any event, in brief, in conclusion, on the whole, in short, in summary, in the final analysis, in the long run, on balance, to sum up, to summarize, finally She didn't seem willing to sell the car this week, but in any case I don't get paid until the end of the month.
Transitional Words and Phrases Updated lists by Joanna Taraba (printable version here) This page only provides a list of transitional words; be certain you understand their meanings before you use them. Often, there exists a slight, but significant, difference between two apparently similar words. Also remember that while transitions describe relationships between ideas, they do not automatically create relationships between ideas for your reader. Use transitions with enough context in a sentence or paragraph to make the relationships clear. Example of unclear transition: The characters in Book A face a moral dilemma. In the same way, the characters in Book B face a similar problem. Improved transition: The characters in Book A face a moral dilemma, a contested inheritance. Although the inheritance in Book B consists of an old house and not a pile of money, the nature of the problem is quite similar. Examples of Transitions: Illustration Thus, for example, for instance, namely, to illustrate, in other words, in particular, specifically, such as. Contrast On the contrary, contrarily, notwithstanding, but, however, nevertheless, in spite of, in contrast, yet, on one hand, on the other hand, rather, or, nor, conversely, at the same time, while this may be true. Addition And, in addition to, furthermore, moreover, besides, than, too, also, both-and, another, equally important, first, second, etc., again, further, last, finally, not only-but also, as well as, in the second place, next, likewise, similarly, in fact, as a result, consequently, in the same way, for example, for instance, however, thus, therefore, otherwise.

Time After, afterward, before, then, once, next, last, at last, at length, first, second, etc., at first, formerly, rarely, usually, another, finally, soon, meanwhile, at the same time, for a minute, hour, day, etc., during the morning, day, week, etc., most important, later, ordinarily, to begin with, afterwards, generally, in order to, subsequently, previously, in the meantime, immediately, eventually, concurrently, simultaneously. Space At the left, at the right, in the center, on the side, along the edge, on top, below, beneath, under, around, above, over, straight ahead, at the top, at the bottom, surrounding, opposite, at the rear, at the front, in front of, beside, behind, next to, nearby, in the distance, beyond, in the forefront, in the foreground, within sight, out of sight, across, under, nearer, adjacent, in the background. Concession Although, at any rate, at least, still, thought, even though, granted that, while it may be true, in spite of, of course. Similarity or Comparison Similarly, likewise, in like fashion, in like manner, analogous to. Emphasis Above all, indeed, truly, of course, certainly, surely, in fact, really, in truth, again, besides, also, furthermore, in addition. Details Specifically, especially, in particular, to explain, to list, to enumerate, in detail, namely, including. Examples For example, for instance, to illustrate, thus, in other words, as an illustration, in particular. Consequence or Result So that, with the result that, thus, consequently, hence, accordingly, for this reason, therefore, so, because, since, due to, as a result, in other words, then. Summary Therefore, finally, consequently, thus, in short, in conclusion, in brief, as a result, accordingly. Suggestion For this purpose, to this end, with this in mind, with this purpose in mind, therefore.

VirtualSalt
Transitional Words and Phrases
Robert Harris Version Date: November 16, 2011

Transitional words and phrases provide the glue that holds ideas together in writing. They provide coherence (that hanging together, making sense as a whole) by helping the reader to understand the relationship between ideas, and they act as signposts that help the reader follow the movement of the discussion. Transitional expressions, then, can be used between sentences, between paragraphs, or between entire sections of a work. The two kinds of transitions are those of logic and those of thought. Each of these kinds is discussed here.

Transitions of Logic
Transitions of logic consist of words or phrases that convey "logical intent": that is, they show the logical connection between two ideas. Since there are several possible logical connections (such as time, purpose, contrast), there are several categories of transitions of logic. The table below lists many of these transitions, arranged by category and listed as milder or stronger. (Note that there is some double listing, because of the different ways words can be used.) Some hints for use: be careful not to use too many strong transitions transitions become stronger when they are the first word in a sentence, milder when they are moved a few words into the sentence keep this list handy while you write, until the words come automatically

Transitions of Logic

Milder

Stronger

Addition

a further x and and then then also too next another

further furthermore moreover in addition additionally besides again equally important

other nor

first, second finally, last

Comparison

just as ... so too a similar x another x like

similarly comparable in the same way likewise

Contrast

but yet and yet still otherwise or though but another rather

however still nevertheless on the other hand on the contrary even so notwithstanding for all that in contrast alternatively at the same time though this may be otherwise instead nonetheless conversely

Time

then now soon afterward later shortly earlier recently first, second, third next before after today tomorrow

meanwhile at length presently at last finally immediately thereafter at that time subsequently eventually currently in the meantime in the past in the future

Purpose

to do this so that

to this end with this object for this purpose for that reason because of this x

Place

there here beyond nearby next to

at that point opposite to adjacent to on the other side in the front in the back

Result

so and so then

hence therefore accordingly consequently thus thereupon as a result in consequence

Example

that is specifically in particular for one thing

for example for instance an instance of this this can be seen in

Summary and Emphasis

in sum generally after all by the way in general incidentally naturally I hope at least it seems in brief I suppose

in short on the whole as I said in other words to be sure in fact indeed clearly of course anyway remarkably I think

assuredly definitely without doubt for all that on the whole in any event importantly certainly

Transitions of Thought
Transitions of thought consist of words that help maintain the continuity of thought from one sentence or paragraph to the next. Transitions of thought are produced by the following techniques: Pronouns and Possessive Pronouns. Follow a noun with a pronoun (to continue the same subject) or a possessive pronoun (to move to something related to the original subject). Fido is asleep. He is a good dog. His house is near the tree. The oranges are in the kitchen bowl. Eat all you want, but check them for ripeness first. The Castells must be home from the beach. I see their car in the driveway. Pronouns include he, she, it, we, they, us, them, him, her, I, me, and you Possessive pronouns include his, her, hers, its, their, theirs, ours, our, my, mine, your, yours Keyword Repetition. Repeat the word around which the discussion is focusing. Many cities are overcrowded. But now there is help for the city. Your gardener can apply this fertilizer to your lawn monthly. Just read the fertilizer label. OR Just ask your gardener about it. OR Your lawn will become greener and juicier. Synonyms. A synonym is a word that means nearly the same as another word. The meaning is close enough so that the thought continues, but different enough so that the idea expands and gains greater definition than it would by simply repeating the same word over and over (which would be pretty boring, too, huh?). Freds car is fast and powerful. But is such a vehicle legal? And dont hot rods like that pollute the air? We hiked from the meadow to the peak on Monday. Then we walked from the peak to the bluff Tuesday. It was quite a trek. Demonstrative Pronouns and Adjectives. Demonstrative pronouns include this, that, these, and those. They are useful for both direction and emphasis. It is a good idea to change demonstrative pronouns to demonstrative adjectives by adding a clarifying noun (so instead of saying, "This is good," say, "This ice cream is good."). Some people suggest giving up salt on popcorn. This idea, however, is ridiculous. Yes, Air Profit is our best selling shoe. That brand, however, is sold out right now.

Seven Types of Paragraphs

There are at least seven types of paragraphs. Knowledge of the differences between them can facilitate composing well-structured essays. In order to write coherent essays, students need to learn about the basic functions of various paragraphs in college writing. Most paragraphs will have several functions to fulfill at a time and it is important to know under what circumstances their functions can be conjoined, if at all. The following list contains explanations regarding content and style of different paragraphs as well as examples. Narration Paragraph
Narration paragraphs are most frequently used in fiction and personal statements. As such, they will contain all necessary components of action development: protagonist, setting, goal, obstacle, climax and resolution. Writing a narration paragraph requires, consequently, accounting for sequential order of events and chronology. There are many descriptive elements included in the body of a narration paragraph but, if composed correctly, the paragraph will prioritize action over description.

Exposition Paragraph Often times, this kind of a paragraph is used as a component of other types of writing. Its written in order to clarify or explain problems and phenomena. Writing exposition paragraphs requires strict focus on evidence and objective language. It can contain elements of comparison and contrast, or cause and effect writing as both facilitate accurate exposition of the subjectmatter. Definition Paragraph

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Definition paragraphs are used in order to explain the meaning, origin and function of things. They are used both in academic writing and fiction. To write a definition paragraph, writers should concentrate on the role of its subject in the context of the essay and account for evidence as well as examples accordingly. Classification Paragraph

Writing classification paragraphs requires a more varied approach. It should be concentrated on defining as well as making relevant comparisons. In other words, writers should classify the subject of the paragraph in a specific context providing comparisons to corresponding ideas. Classification can be performed on multiple levels semantic (comparing different meanings of things), linguistic (using vocabulary to show contrast), and more. Description Paragraph Preferably, description paragraphs should concentrate on action (verbs), rather than sensations or impressions (adverbs and adjectives), which ensures that the tone remains objective and authoritative. Description paragraphs should be detailed, clear, and render the represented reality chronologically. Process Analysis Paragraph It, usually, takes the form of a how-to paragraph which guides readers through a process or action to be performed. Its very concise and uses formal, non-descriptive vocabulary. It should be written in chronological order accounting for subsequent actions or events.

Persuasion Paragraph
Persuasion paragraphs require exhortatory and dynamic language. They are aimed at persuading the reader into taking a particular action or adopting a certain point of view. They should be devoid of descriptive content and rely on the imperative mode instead. Further reading:

How do you write each type of paragraph?

Answer: A paragraph is a collection of sentences that deal with one subject. This is a paragraph - all of these sentences talk about what a paragraph is. An effective paragraph consists of a topic sentence, sentences that support this topic (the body of the paragraph), and a conclusion. The topic sentence in this paragraph is the first one, where the word is defined. Everything after that sentence is the body of this paragraph. The conclusion of this paragraph is the last sentence. When you change the topic, you start a new paragraph - I will change to a new paragraph next, to discuss different types of paragraphs and how to write an effective paragraph. A paragraph can contain as many sentences and words as you need just be sure that you have said everything you need to say before you conclude the paragraph. Each paragraph should tell your reader about one subject, and should leave them with a good idea of whatever you are talking about.

There are seven or eight different types of paragraph. After each definition, you will find a short example paragraph.

Narrative Paragraphs - these are the paragraphs that tell you what is going on in a story, and move things along.

The writer pauses to consider what the students need to know, then writes another sentence. These sentences all lead the reader toward the idea that a paragraph is just a way of communicating. After the writer finishes this paragraph, there will be another that needs to be written. The writer glances at the clock on the wall. Will there be enough time?

Descriptive Paragraphs - these paragraphs give descriptions of something so that you can form a mental image of what is going on.

The WikiAnswers site is a colorful place. Bright oranges, blues, and greens entice the eye and make you want to look around and see what is there. Little cartoon aliens decorate the site and point to interesting things. Clicking on the buttons and arrows make new pages pop up, or make things change around.

Explanatory Paragraphs - this is sometimes divided into "Explaining With Examples" and "Explaining a Process" - either way, these paragraphs provide an explanation for something, so that you can understand it better. This whole paragraph is an explanatory one!

In order to write a paragraph, first you think about what you want to say. Pretend that you are explaining things to your friends, or to a younger person. Try to explain in simple terms that are easy to follow. Once you have thought about it, start writing down what you would say out loud. That's all you need to do to write a paragraph.

Compare and Contrast Paragraphs - these are the paragraphs that give similarities and differences between things.

Paragraphs are like conversations. Each conversation is a series of statements, questions, or explanations that pass along information. Each paragraph is also a series of sentences that pass along information. A paragraph is different from a conversation because a paragraph can be edited and changed after you write it down, and a conversation can't be taken back once you have spoken the words.

Defining Paragraphs - these paragraphs give you a definition for some term.

A definition tells you what a word or term means. This paragraph tells you what a defining paragraph is, so this paragraph is a defining paragraph about defining

paragraphs! When you define something, you want to use simple words so that your reader will understand what you are saying.

Classifying Paragraphs - these are paragraphs which divide something into groups or categories. This entire section is a classifying paragraph which tells you the different kinds of paragraph that you can use! Persuasive or Argumentative Paragraphs - these are paragraphs that try to convince the reader to agree with something.

Writing a good paragraph just takes practice. You will be able to write well if you keep at it! Anyone at all can learn how to write a good paragraph, even if they don't make perfect grades or speak wonderful English. All you have to do is be willing to practice writing, and you can do it! A hortatory exposition is a special type of argument that is written in specific language. To write hortatory exposition, you use words that focus on the writer instead of on the reader (I, me, mine). You also use more abstract language such as passive voice ("it was done" instead of "they did it") and present tense instead of the usual past tense ("I am in town" instead of "I was in town"). Hortatory exposition is just an argument which is phrased in a less emotional, more passive voice.

The way that you write paragraphs is simply to pretend that you are talking to someone. Instead of telling them whatever you want to say, you write it down instead. Here are some good tips for writing efffective paragraphs:

"Tell Them What You Are Going To Tell Them" - writing is the same as making a speech - first, you want to give the audience an idea of what is coming up. This will be your topic sentence, and should give a pretty good idea of what the paragraph is going to be about. A good topic sentence should be specific instead of general, and should convey some sort of emotion - either an attitude, a belief, or a conviction. "Tell Them" - next, you write your supporting sentences - be sure that each one supports the topic sentence - if you think of a sentence that goes off on a tangent or starts a new topic, put it into another paragraph. "Tell Them What You Just Told Them" - your conclusion sentence should repeat the basic idea of the topic sentence using different words.

You might also keep in mind these additional tips:

Unity and Coherence - your paragraph should all be about the same topic, without wandering around discussing many different things. You should also be as coherent as possible - use simple language instead of big words whenever possible, link your sentences with bridges (see next tip), and use logical arguments and facts. Bridges - you can link the sentences and paragraphs by using key words which you repeat throughout your writing, by using synonyms and similar words, or by following a logical argument and proceeding step-by-step throughout. Using some sort of order, such as chronological (time) or

structural order can help link paragraphs. The reader can guess what is coming next by knowing how time works, or by following along as you describe items in a series. Development - make sure your topic sentence is adequately discussed in the paragraph. While it is possible to have a one-sentence paragraph, you will usually need several sentences to discuss the topic. Use facts, statistics, and details. Cite what other people have said about the topic (remember to use quotes and give credit where due). Give a timeline if possible. Give examples in a story or anecdote. Define terms and explain similarities and differences. Describe causes and consequences. Transitions and Signposts - you can use words and phrases to alert your readers and let them know what's going on in your paragraph. Transition words and sentences help your ideas flow from one paragraph to another, and contain phrases like "in addition," "another point," or "afterwards." Signpost words and sentences "point the way" to let your readers know where your arguments and descriptions are headed - a signpost could be a bold word or phrase, a dot or arrow, or even an indentation. Signposts are another way to "tell them what you are going to tell them" and "tell them what you just told them."

Here are some more contributions:

Use a "hook" or interesting fact to make people want to read your paragraphs.