Transition Words and Phrases

Composing a sentence, you create a new thought. It is expressed on the paper by means of written language; each phrase and sentence has a definite hidden idea to be conveyed to the reader. World languages have sentences of different types. It doesn't matter how long they are. More important is what idea they host - it can be a conclusion, an observation, summary, evaluation. To organize your thoughts to one chain, transition words are used. They determine logical point within the process of idea creation. Using them, it is possible to make analysis, emphasis, define relationship - transition words show connection between the thoughts and ideas.

Use Them Wisely

In English, an essay transition words are used to logically connect and smooth flow of sentences and paragraphs; they have many functions within the sentence. They underline writers' knowledge, reasoning, emotions in the written discourse. Some of them should be used extensively within academic writing. You will learn vital information concerning usage of these elements on our blog article. Definite list of types of transitional words exists. Each group is used to logically connect one part of written content (paragraph) to another. Look at a structure of an essay example to have a better understanding of every part. If you have no previous experience of working with these words, learn more with us. You can read about them here.

Additive group	Adversative group	Casual transitions	Sequential transitions
Addition	Conflict	Cause/Reason	Numerical
Introduction	Emphasis	Condition	Continuation
Reference	Adversative	Effect/Consequence	Digression
Similarity	Replacement	Purpose	Resumption
Identification	Concession		Conclusion/Summation

Groups of Transitional Words

Additive Group

This group, named additive transitions, is large comparing to other groups of these words.

Additive transitions help unite sentences to a logical consequence of ideas. To compose the argument writing your paper, this type is commonly used: moreover, besides - are good examples. Pay attention, you should write each word or phrase at the right place every time. It will have a severe effect on the content of your 5 paragraph essay. Misuse of these elements can result in inappropriate understanding of your thought; your reader may be confused. Additive elements add value to the sentence - they emphasize the right information and point; an additive word underlines your attitude to the situation. One word can easily determine a writer’s attitude to the situation being described. When creating a research paper such words should be used wisely. They should not be used many times; on the contrary - avoid expressing personal attitude with similar words.

Introduction words are less demanding and signify less than additive ones: including, particularly - belong to introductory set of elements. They have a neural meaning. You can put them at the beginning of the paragraph; they are good to introduce your thoughts. On contrast to words from additive set, introduction words can be used by students who create scientific papers.

Reference set is used to refer to the the matter: regarding, the fact that, considering - are expressions that direct us. They attract readers’ attention to the object; students use them in academic writing from time to time.

Similarity words include: likewise, equally, etc. They link two objects having similar features; they add stylistic perfection to the text. Such words determine fine organisation of a sentence in the flow of language.

Identification set of transitions is an important one when creating your scientific essays: namely, specifically - are a couple of meaningful examples. Identification set emphasizes the meaning of a writer’s thought.

Adversative Group

This big group is Adversative transitions; they are used to show contradiction, oppose relationships.

Conflict elements include in fact, conversely, etc. They are clearly adding a comparison meaning. Their place within the sentence varies - it depends on a writer’s intention and logical flow of paper’s content.

Emphasis elements are a unique part of English lexics: for instance, more importantly are add additional reasoning to the content.

Adversative set is used to dismiss information. Either way, at any rate - writing your paper use them to signal conflict, contradiction concession, dismissal, etc.

Replacement set includes rather, instead, etc. They define correlation relationships between the objects; you need to use them smartly in formal papers.

Concession elements - however, regardless, etc. They enrich writing, i.e. - using them correctly will make your piece look sophisticated and professional.

Causal Transitions

Another big group you should pay attention to is causal transitions; they relate to cause-reason relationship in the sentence.

Cause/reason elements of this type include in a view of, being that, because. Do not leave them aside of your attention; within formal papers they show how a writer can analyze given facts.

Condition set of words is used when working on a research / academic work. Scientists test hypotheses and these words may help a reader to better understand paper’s logical flow: even if, in case, etc. Phrases are short but irreplaceable studying science course at the university.

Effect/Consequence transitions describe result, explain reasons. Accordingly, so that, therefore are good examples to show the after effect of actions, events, problems occured and solved.

Purpose set includes in the hope of, with this in mind, etc. These elements are important; they show reasons of events, thoughts, characters’ actions and deeds.

Sequential Transitions

Sequential transitions are the last group left to be discussed; they primarily show logical sequence of events.

Numerical set includes initially, to start with, firstly, etc. They are good to underline the strength of reasoning; numerical order shows readers that writer masters his/her arguments logically.

Continuation words: subsequently, previously, etc.  It draws the continuity line between objects, acts, thoughts making chains of events logically connected to readers’ better understanding.

Digression set includes incidentally, by the way. It serves to change the topic of the sentence; writers use them to switch a reader’s attention to other vital information.

Resumption words are very popular within all sorts of writing. Anyhow, anyway, at any rate add stilistic accents to the sentence; do not tend to overuse them - your paper may be considered watered down with no added value.

Conclusion/Summation transitions are used to summarize the information and derive a conclusion. Students should use them within summary/conclusive essay parts; they add assertiveness to the conclusions and make a thesis statement stated at an introductory part of the paper stronger.

Hint: Use all necessary language techniques to reach your goal of making an essay excellent.

Transitions words make the discourse of writing richer; students should use them wisely when doing their academic assignments and mind the english grammar. Remember not to overuse transitional elements. If you are new to the topic, learn more about academic writing or order your perfect essay from a team of professional writers in case you need help on homework. Good luck!