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- Transition Words & Phrases | List & Examples
Transition Words & Phrases | List & Examples
Published on July 19, 2024 by Kayla Anderson Hewitt, MA . Revised on September 13, 2024.
Transition words and phrases are used to connect ideas in your writing and help readers understand your arguments. Also called connecting words , linking words , or transitional words , these words describe the relationship between phrases, sentences, or paragraphs.
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Table of contents
Types and examples of transition words, how to use transition words effectively, common mistakes with transition words, frequently asked questions about transition words.
Transition words can be divided into four categories: sequential, additive, causal, and adversative. These four categories can be further subdivided into more specific functions.
Sequential transition words
Sequential transition words can be used to indicate the order you’re presenting ideas in your essay or an order of events. They are often used in academic writing to orient the reader to the text.
Initiation | first of all, to begin with, initially, in the first place, at first | , I planned to survey 500 students, but this proved infeasible. |
Enumeration | first, second, third… | There are three questions to consider when analyzing a source: , is the author an expert in the field? , has it been published within the past 10 years? , … |
Continuation | next, subsequently, before x, after x, , previously, eventually, afterward | , I examine the justifications given for not entering the conflict. |
Resumption | returning to/to return to, to resume, at any rate | the nature versus nurture debate, it is evident that … |
Summation | in summary, as previously stated/mentioned, overall, in conclusion, , in sum, to summarize | Milholland (2021) makes a similar point. , the critical consensus is … |
Conclusion | to conclude (with), finally, at last, as a final point, in conclusion, lastly | , we asked participants to rate their overall satisfaction with the product. |
Additive transition words
You can use additive transition words to introduce examples or new details. They add to, clarify, or make a comparison with previous text.
Introduction | for example, for instance, , like, including, particularly, in particular, especially | Employees expressed dissatisfaction about many aspects of the company. , Participant A mentioned … |
Addition | additionally, moreover, furthermore, also, both x and y, , in fact | Residents were surprised by the lack of communication. , they expressed anger that … |
Similarity | likewise, similarly, in the same way, equally | Students celebrated the creation of the new major. Faculty were excited about it. |
Reference | in regard to x, considering x, on the subject of x, concerning x | Location and pay scale were mentioned frequently by participants. location, participants described … |
Clarification | namely, specifically, that is (to say), in other words, more precisely | Confirmation bias is the human tendency to interpret events in light of one’s already-held beliefs. , we see what we want to see. |
Emphasis | Indeed, above all, more/most importantly | We need to focus on several goals this quarter. , we should aim to reduce complaints by 10%. |
Causal transition words
You can use causal transition words to describe causes and effects.
Condition | provided that, on the condition that, (even/only) if/when, as long as, inasmuch as, in case, in the event that, otherwise | We enrolled teenagers in the study they had parental permission. |
Consequence | because, as a result (of x), consequently, hence, thus, due to (the fact that), since, , in view of x | Pilot study participants indicated unfamiliarity with the term “scaffolding.” , a definition was provided. |
Purpose | in order to/that, so that, to, for the purpose of, with this in mind, lest | Very few vice presidents have had to serve as president. , Acosta’s choice seems less surprising. |
Adversative transition words
You can use adversative transition words to indicate a contrast or disagreement with what has come previously.
Conflict | however, but, although, , on the other hand, in contrast, where as, conversely, though | Kim’s work is bold and colorful. , Levant employs a more muted style. |
Dismissal | whatever the case, , either way, in any/either event, all the same, at any rate | It is not clear whether the CEO’s complaints were related more to style or substance. , the project has been nixed. |
Concession | nonetheless, nevertheless, even so, x, notwithstanding x, regardless (of x), in spite of x, admittedly, though | , Lebens (2022) is correct in her critique of the book’s length. , it is an important work of fiction. |
Replacement | (or) rather, (or) at least, instead, if not, or (perhaps) even | beautiful, the building is awe inspiring. |
These lists of transitions are adapted from those created by Prof. Campbell, Prof. Buckhoff, and Prof. Dowell at Michigan State University under a Creative Commons license .
Often, transition words are used to begin a new sentence or clause. They show how the sentence relates to the previous one.
Transition words can also be used in the middle of a clause. When used in this way, you need to pay careful attention to placement.
Example paragraph with and without transition words
The text below contains all of the necessary facts, but it lacks any transition words. This makes it difficult to determine what the connection is between the sentences and what point the writer is trying to make.
Don’t overuse transition words
It is possible to overdo transition words. Not every clause needs an explicit transition. In the example below, the repetition of the same type of linking word feels repetitive.
In this example, it makes the most sense to combine sentences so that fewer linking words are required.
Effective use of transition words involves finding the right balance. Too few transition words can mean a text is difficult to follow, but too many can seem unnatural.
It is easy to make mistakes with transition words and phrases because they often have subtle differences in meaning and grammatical function.
Using transition words incorrectly means that your audience won’t be able to follow your arguments. Identifying some of the more common mistakes can help you be aware of them in your writing.
Creating sentence fragments
Some transition words (e.g., “if,” “because,” “although”) are subordinating conjunctions . They are used to begin dependent clauses , which cannot stand on their own as sentences.
Clauses that start with these words must be attached to an independent clause . When they’re not, they are considered a sentence fragment.
- We excluded the results from people over age 65 from the analysis. Because there were only two people in this age bracket.
It can be fixed by connecting the dependent clause to the independent clause. The dependent clause can come before or after the independent clause.
- We excluded the results from people over age 65 from the analysis because there were only two people in this age bracket.
- Because there were only two people over age 65, we excluded their results from the analysis.
Beginning a sentence with and, so, or also
In academic writing, the words “and,” “so,” and “also” are not used to begin sentences because they are considered too informal.
- Also , respondents filled out a Likert-scale questionnaire.
This can be fixed by moving the transition word or by using a more formal transition word.
- Respondents also filled out a Likert-scale questionnaire.
- Additionally , respondents filled out a Likert-scale questionnaire.
Misuse of therefore
“Therefore” and other causal transition words are used when something follows logically, or is the result of, what has come before. People often misuse “therefore” when there is no cause-and-effect relationship.
- We asked participants to log the number of minutes of exercise they did each day. Therefore , the average amount of exercise per day was 23 minutes.
This example is illogical because it implies that the average amount of exercise is a result of participants being asked to log their exercise, which is false. In this case, we can delete “therefore” to make the sentence logical.
- We asked participants to log the number of minutes of exercise they did each day. The average amount of exercise per day was 23 minutes.
Good transition words and phrases for conclusions include:
- To conclude (with)
- As a final point
- In conclusion
The transition you choose will depend on the level of formality of your text and the argument you have made.
Using QuillBot’s Paraphrasing Tool can help you vary your word choice.
Good transition words and phrases to start a paragraph depend on the purpose of the paragraph and how it relates to the previous one.
Introducing a point | to begin with, first of all, first (or second or third) |
Building on a previous point | furthermore, to illustrate, considering , on the subject of , similarly, consequently, returning to |
Contrasting with a previous point | however, in contrast, on the other hand |
QuillBot’s Paraphrasing Tool can help you integrate transition words into your writing.
Good transition words and phrases to show contrast include:
- In contrast
- On the other hand
The transition you choose will depend on the level of formality of your text and your sentence structure.
QuillBot’s Paraphraser can help you vary your word choice.
There are many good transition words and phrases for essays; the choice often depends on what the purpose of the transition is. The table below shows a variety of options.
Introducing an idea | first (of all), initially, to begin with, in the first place |
Concluding | finally, in conclusion, lastly, at last, in summary, to sum up, overall |
Giving examples | for example, for instance, such as, in particular |
Good transition words and phrases for the first body paragraph in an essay include:
- To begin with
- First of all
- Considering x
- On the subject of x
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- Transition Words & Phrases | List & Examples
Transition Words & Phrases | List & Examples
Published on 20 October 2022 by Jack Caulfield . Revised on 15 March 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.
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 summarise, 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.
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Transition Words and Phrases in English
Imagine a road with no street signs to point the way. How would you follow the right route if you didn’t have a sign showing you which way to go?
Words and phrases like similarly , nevertheless , in order to , likewise , and as a result show the relationships between your ideas and can help illustrate agreement, contrast, or cause and effect.
What Are Transition Words?
Transition words are the road signs in writing. They help readers follow your train of thought without becoming bogged down trying to discern your meaning.
When used correctly, they keep up the flow of your writing as you shift in meaning, tone, and ideas from one sentence or paragraph to another. Transition words clarify the relationship between what you just said and what you're about to say for your readers.
Here’s an example of a well-placed transition:
- Original: The boy kicked the ball into the street. A speeding car came around the corner.
- Rewrite: The boy kicked the ball into the street. At the same moment, a speeding car came around the corner.
The rewrite uses a transition phrase to show when the event happened. We see the action in a wider lens: the ball goes into the street just as a car comes careening around the corner. The first illustration is short and choppy. It doesn’t flow well. The rewrite leads you smoothly between two related, but different thoughts.
The addition of at the same moment also clarifies the connection between the ideas for the reader. Since we know these events are connected and happening at the same time, we feel more tension for what's about to happen.
Transitional Words Examples: Fiction
Let’s take a look at some of these words in context to better examine how they work.
Fiction Transitions Example 1:
Take the following two sentences. Which one reads more fluidly?
- Mark tended to avoid the campus dining hall where his former friends hung out. He loved its food.
- Mark tended to avoid the campus dining hall where his former friends hung out, although he loved its food.
In the second construction, you understand how the two ideas are related. The first construction reads as choppy, two disparate ideas connected solely by proximity. By adding the transition word although and combining the two sentences, the second construction makes it clear that avoiding the dining hall had consequences for Mark. It gives more meaning to both sentences.
Fiction Transitions Example 2:
Here’s another example of transition word usage in fiction writing:
- Mindy thought her mother was over-reacting to her predicament. She waited two days after the first phone call to visit.
- Mindy thought her mother was over-reacting to her predicament. So, she waited two days after the first phone call to visit.
The use of so in the second construction makes clear to the reader that the gap in time between the call and the visit was a direct result of the over-reaction.
Transitional Words Examples: Non-Fiction
Transitions don’t just help fiction readers. Let’s take a look at how you can use transitions to improve your non-fiction writing.
Non-Fiction Transitions Example 1:
Take the following two constructions. Which one reads more fluidly?
- Marketing numbers have performed worse than we expected this year. We will be hiring a marketing consultant.
- Marketing numbers have performed worse than we expected this year, so we’ll be hiring a marketing consultant.
In the second construction, you understand how the two ideas are related. You see straight away that the poor marketing results are the direct reason for hiring a marketing consultant. By adding this connection, the relationship between the two ideas becomes clear. Similarly, the second version flows better and feels less self-contained.
Non-Fiction Transitions Example 2:
Here’s another example of transition word usage in non-fiction writing:
- The recent rise in oil pricing has made gas more expensive for consumers. Food prices have skyrocketed.
- The recent rise in oil pricing has made gas more expensive for consumers. Similarly, food prices have skyrocketed.
The use of similarly in the second construction makes it clear that there’s a relationship between the two ideas. The first construction feels disconnected since one sentence focuses on gas prices and another on food. The second construction makes it clear that the two ideas are related based on how they affect prices for consumers.
What Are the 6 Examples of Transitions?
What makes these phrases different from other words? They all move your writing from one idea to another.
The specific word or phrase you choose for your writing will depend on the type of transition you want to make. Each category of transition has multiple words or phrases you can choose from. Later in this article, we’ll show you hundreds of transition words or phrases to suit every need.
Before we get to the ultimate list of examples, let’s take a look at the categories.
Cause and effect: Show how two ideas are connected.
- I’m tired, so I’m going to bed.
Contrast: Show differences between two or more ideas.
- I hate most desserts. However, I love cookies.
Example and Emphasis: Introduce examples that help highlight or explain a previous point, or to add strength to a particular idea.
- I have a lot of fears. For instance, I’m terrified of spiders.
Addition & Enumeration: Break down, draw connections to, or add more support to an existing idea.
- Today, I’m going to do my homework. In addition, I’m going to clean my room.
Time: Explain how two or more ideas are related in time.
- Mary-Ann went out, looking for a bright new world. Meanwhile, Wanda looked all around their hometown and all she found was Earl.
Conclusion: Introduce a final point or summarize information.
- In conclusion, I deserve a new car because I’ve done all my chores for the month.
How ProWritingAid Can Help You with Transition Words
Clear, readable writing tends to use around 25% transition phrases. Of course this isn't set in stone—but if you have considerably fewer than this in your document, you may be losing your reader.
ProWritingAid's Transitions Report highlights all of the transition words in your document so you can see how your writing flows.
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What Are Some Examples of Transition Words?
Looking for examples of transition words you can use in your writing? Look no further! We’ve put together the ultimate list with hundreds of examples you can use.
On to the list!
Cause and Effect Transition Phrases
Also known as condition or purpose transitions, these words and phrases explain how ideas are related.
if then therefore thus unless given that when whenever while in view of because of accordingly | 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 therefore | in case provided that given that only/even if so that so as to owing to inasmuch as due to hence as since |
---|
Contrast Transition Words
If you have two differing ideas, contrast transitions help to set up those differences.
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 then again | but (and) still unlike or (and) yet while albeit besides as much as even though | although instead whereas despite conversely otherwise however rather nevertheless nonetheless |
---|
Example and Emphasis Transition Words
Example and emphasis transition words and phrases explain or give more information about a previously introduced idea. Sometimes known as clarification transitions, these words help make your meaning more clear.
notably including like to be sure namely chiefly truly indeed certainly surely | 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 | in fact in general in particular in detail for example for instance to demonstrate to emphasize to repeat to clarify |
---|
Addition and Enumeration Transition Words
Also known as agreement or similarity transitions, these words express agreement and reinforce relationships and ideas that came before.
moreover as well as together with of course likewise comparatively correspondingly similarly furthermore additionally equally important | again to and also then equally identically uniquely like as too | 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 |
---|
Time Transition Words
Time transition words help define time in your writing. They explain how your ideas relate when it comes to time.
at the present time from time to time sooner or later at the same time up to the present time to begin with in due time as soon as as long as in the meantime in a moment without delay in the first place | after later last until till since then before hence since when once about | henceforth whenever eventually meanwhile further during in time prior to forthwith straightaway immediately by the time whenever |
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Conclusion Transitions
As you reach the end of an idea or or group of ideas, conclusion transitions can help introduce your final point or summarize previous information.
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 in a word for the most part | after all in fact in summary in conclusion in short in brief in essence to summarize on balance altogether | by and large to sum up on the whole in any event in either case all in all usually obviously ultimately definitely |
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How to Use Transition Words More Effectively
Using transition words and phrases isn’t always as easy as it looks. Here are some best practices to keep in mind so that you can effectively use transition words.
1. Understand the relationship between your ideas
The better you understand the relationships between the ideas in your text, the more effectively you’ll be able to wield transition words and phrases. The relationships between your ideas will help you understand which you should pick.
2. Know your transition words
Different transitions are appropriate in different contexts. Don’t just pick a random transition to use. Make sure the one you’ve chosen is appropriate for what you’re trying to say. Also, don’t be afraid to try out a new transition word from the list we’ve provided above. Just like in other types of writing, repetitive language can be boring for your readers. Try out new transition words (as long as they’re the right type) to increase the interest of your writing.
How ProWritingAid Helps You Improve Transition Words and Phrases in Your Writing
Since transitions help to organize your ideas and demonstrate connections, it’s important to include them in your writing to make it more clear. ProWritingAid can help. Our software analyzes your writing to determine whether or not you’ve used transitions appropriately in your work.
Depending on what you’re writing, you can find your Transitions score in two places: your goals and the Transition Report.
ProWritingAid knows that different genres require different amounts and types of transitions, so your suggested transition percentage changes depending on what you’re writing. If you’re working on an academic paper, for instance, transitional phrases are important to improving understanding. So you’ll find a goal for transitions in your sidebar.
On the other hand, formal transitions are less common in some types of fiction writing, so you may not see this goal if you’re working on say, a crime novel.
You can always find your score, regardless of what you’re writing, by running the Transition Report. The ProWritingAid Transition Report will scan your writing and give you a “transitions score." This measures the percentage of your sentences that begin with a transition word.
Check your transitions with a free ProWritingAid account.
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Abruptly switching topics in essays can be jarring; however, transition words can smooth the change for the convenience of the reader.Moreover, you can use essay transition words to start a paragraph, sentence, or clause more naturally.Additionally, essay transition words can connect new information to the previous statement so you don't have to say everything at once.
Transition Words & Phrases | List & Examples. Published on July 19, 2024 by Kayla Anderson Hewitt, MA.Revised on September 13, 2024. Transition words and phrases are used to connect ideas in your writing and help readers understand your arguments. Also called connecting words, linking words, or transitional words, these words describe the relationship between phrases, sentences, or paragraphs.
Transitions give your writing coherence. They're like road signs, guiding readers through your thoughts. Below are some common transitions, categorized by the type of relationship they describe. While the examples within each category are similar, they are NOT interchangeable. Be sure the transition you're using suits your meaning.
Having a list of transition words means you'll be able to weave your sentences together smoothly. Read on to commit these lists to memory!
Example sentence. Transition words and phrases. Addition. We found that the mixture was effective. Moreover, it appeared to have additional effects we had not predicted. indeed, furthermore, moreover, additionally, and, also, both x and y, not only x but also y, besides x, in fact. Introduction.
A speeding car came around the corner. Rewrite: The boy kicked the ball into the street. At the same moment, a speeding car came around the corner. The rewrite uses a transition phrase to show when the event happened. We see the action in a wider lens: the ball goes into the street just as a car comes careening around the corner.
Altogether. After all. Ultimately. Here's an example of this type of transition in use: "Traveling make you more open to new experiences, which increases your willingness to try new things in the future. It also increases your brain's capacity and attentiveness in future situations that are new and challenging.
Transitions. The strength of any argument largely hinges on the writer's ability to make clear connections between his or her assessments, assertions, and research. This means that every sentence needs to rely on the previous sentence and contribute to the next. After all, this sort of logic-based linking is what ultimately guides your reader ...
These are the transition words that bring paragraphs, arguments, and pieces of writing to a close. They can also be used to summarize and restate ideas. These transition phrases and words include: in summary. in conclusion. to conclude. in any event. in either case. overall.
Practical Applications of Good Transition Words Good Transition Words in Essays. In essays, transition words are used to connect different ideas and paragraphs. They help to create a logical flow of ideas and make the essay easier to read. Here are some examples of transition words that are commonly used in essays:
Here are a few more examples of transition sentences at work: Employees who've returned to the office reported higher productivity levels since switching to a four-day week. Similarly, remote employees have also reported they're more productive with the new schedule. First, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.