5.1.9 - Connectives

A connective is a word or phrase that links clauses or sentences. Connectives can be conjunctions (eg but, when, because) or connecting adverbs (eg however, then, therefore).

Connecting adverbs (and adverbial phrases and clauses) maintain the cohesion of a text in several basic ways, including:

• Addition: also, furthermore, moreover
• Opposition: however, nevertheless, on the other hand
• Reinforcing: besides, anyway, after all
• Explaining: for example, in other words, that is to say
• Listing: first(ly), first of all, finally
• Indicating Result: therefore, consequently, as a result
• Indicating Time: just then, meanwhile, later

ACTIVITIES

Fill in the blank with a connective:

1. When the bell rang, the students entered the class.

2. The boys had left the class before the teacher arrived.

3. The train had left when I reached the station.

4. She could use the computer since she was three.

5. He laughed so much that tears rolled down his cheeks.