Welcome to the world of connectors in English Language. These are words and phrases that help in connecting ideas between clauses, sentences and paragraphs to achieve cohesion, clarity of thought and depth of meaning. With examples including however, nevertheless, to start with and in conclusion, they are an expansive class that is worth paying a closer attention to. Here are more examples: moreover, firstly, as a result, in any case, in spite of that and finally.
Some important rules
Different meanings: Some connectors may have similar spellings or sounds, but their meanings and usages may be different. Examples are however and moreover
Wrong: I was in his house on Tuesday. Moreover, I didn’t meet him.
Correct: I was in his house on Tuesday. However, I didn’t meet him.
Wrong: John arrived early. However, he came in very prepared.
Correct: John arrived early. Moreover, he came in very prepared.
Compulsory comma
Connectors can be placed before the second sentence or clause. When this happens, a comma comes after them.
This is good. Nevertheless, you should work harder.
I am happy to be here. In the first instance, this is where I started life as a student.
Double commas
If the connector is placed after the subject and before the verb, a comma should be used before and after the it.
Dr Ade is kind. He, however, doesn’t like lazy people.
The woman has nothing against him. He, put differently, misinterpreted her intention.
After a semi-colon
If the connector comes after a semi-colon, it should start with a small letter.
He did not prepare for the exam; instead, he played football day and night.
Nigeria boasts a lot of natural resources; yet, it remains underdeveloped.
Types of connectors
There are as many as seven types of connectors in English, based on the functions they perform. It is important to understand these functions to avoid mixing them up. They include those showing addition, contrast, sequence and order of importance.
Contrast: however, in contrast, nevertheless, nonetheless, House prices have gone up this year. In contrast, nonetheless nevertheless, on the other hand, by comparison, on the contrary, instead, in any case and all the same.
I won’t go. Instead, I will work from home.
Result: As a result, as a consequence, consequently, accordingly, thus, therefore
Everyone needs a chair. Therefore, we have to rent more.
Sequencing: firstly, first of all, in the first place, to begin with, secondly, in the second place, also, besides, in addition, furthermore, moreover, finally, lastly
It is too late to complain. Besides, we are all guilty one way or the other.
Order of importance: primarily, most significantly, above all, essentially, basically
I have had a great time here. Above all, I made a lot of profit.
Particularisation: In particular, particularly, more specifically
It is a matter of choice. Akin, in particular, ought to know that no one imposed the idea on him.
Exemplification: For example, for instance, to illustrate
There are many rich people in the town. For instance, Tade’s father has many houses and cars.
Explanation: that is to say, that is, namely, in other words, put differently
I am tired. In other words, it’s time to go home.
Emphasising: As a matter of fact, in fact, actually, indeed
It is a matter of time, As a matter of fact, I learnt the other people are ready.
Focusing: With respect to, regarding, with regard to, as regards, talking of
It is not too late to go. With regard to the fare, I will take care of it.
Conclusion: in conclusion, in brief, in summary, to sum up, all in all
Those are the points I consider crucial. In concussion, we all need to be aware of what is going on.
Time: at first, then, later, afterwards, in the meantime, meanwhile
The market has closed. At first, I thought I was in a graveyard.
Dismissal: anyway, anyhow, at any rate
Chief Okpala does not want to see me. Anyway, that is not my business.
