Sentence Structure: Transitions
Transitions function to connect one idea to another either between sentences or between paragraphs. They
are signals that help readers follow the direction of the writer's thoughts. The lists below categorizes transitional
words and phrases according what they signify. Note that certain transitions appear on more than one list.
SOME TRANSITION WORDS AND PHRASES ACCORDING TO MEANING
ADDING
additionally
also
besides
further
furthermore
in addition
in the same way
likewise
moreover
similarly
COMPARING
by comparison
equally
in the same way
likewise
similarly
CONTRASTING
CONCLUDING
at any rate
even so
however
in contrast
in spite of that
instead
nevertheless
on the contrary
on the other hand
otherwise
still
accordingly
as a result
as a/in consequence
consequently
in conclusion
for this reason
hence
therefore
thus
to conclude
ADDING ADDITIONAL DETAIL
as an illustration
for example
for instance
indeed
in fact
in other words
in particular
specifically
that is
INDICATING SEQUENCE (LOGICAL)
first(ly), second(ly), third(ly)...
next
finally
last(ly)
then
above all
in conclusion
to illustrate
that is
SUMMARIZING
briefly
in a word
in brief
in short
in summary
to summarize
EXPRESSING OPINION
actually
apparently
certainly
(un)fortunately
of course
undoubtedly
SAME TIME
at the same time
concurrently
simultaneously
INDICATING SEQUENCE IN TIME
EARLIER TIME
NOW
before that
earlier
first
formerly
previously
at this time
at present
now
nowadays
these days
LATER TIME
after that
afterwards
in the future
later
next
soon
subsequently
then
When using transitions, keep in mind that there are subtle differences between transitional
words and phrases on the same list. If you are unsure about the precise meaning of a particular
word or phrase, consult your dictionary or ask your teacher. Also, while transitions do help to
connect ideas in an essay, too many transitions can make writing seen overly formal or stilted.
Certain transitions such as hence, moreover, thus, and subsequently may make your writing
sound too formal or artificial, which can be distracting to a reader. Formal transitions should be
avoided in personal writing and used judiciously even in formal writing.