Connectives and Discourse Markers

Connectives and Discourse Markers

Connectives and Discourse Markers are essential elements of the Fluency and Coherence section within the IELTS Speaking Criteria, especially if you wish to obtain higher marks (6.5+).

Connectives

These words are used to ‘connect’ ideas, clauses or words. In some grammar books, they are known as conjunctions. There is a variety of these, but perhaps the most simple are ‘and’, ‘but’ and ‘or’.

Below are some frequently used connectives grouped together by their function.

The ones that I have used in my new book 9 分达人 are highlighted.

and, also, besides, furthermore, too, moreover, then, another

like, in the same way, as so, similarly, same as

but, in contrast, conversely, however, still, nevertheless, yet, on the other hand, on the contrary, or, in spite of this, actually, in fact

first, second, (etc.), finally, next, then, to begin with, after, before, as soon as, in the end, gradually

As a result, so, consequently, since, therefore, for this reason, because of this

For example, to illustrate, for instance, to be specific, such as

In summary, to sum up, to repeat, briefly, in short, finally, on the whole, therefore, as I have said, in conclusion, as you can see

This is not a complete list and should not be used as such.  It is meant as a guide to what is possible to use.  Don’t forget that you need to use a ‘range’ in the IELTS Speaking exam, so try and learn how to use a few of these beyond the elementary ones.

 

Some more information about connectives (or Conjunctions) is availabe from the Cambridge Online Dictionary.

Discourse Markers

Discourse Markes are words and phrases that help us to organize our ideas and clearly express our thoughts. In other English Grammar books, they may be called ‘Signalling Words’.

Below are some frequently used connectives grouped by their function.

The ones that I have used in my new book 9 分达人 are highlighted.

I mean, what I mean is, in other words

Right, well, okay

So, anyway, Like I said

My point is, what I’m getting at is, in my opinion, having said that,

Absolutely, definitely, exactly, certainly, without a doubt, that’s easy, of course.

Actually, to be honest, indeed, frankly

Oh, Crumbs, Wow

First(ly), Second(ly), then, after that, Last(ly), finally, up to now, until recently, during these days, currently, what’s more, furthermore.

Some more information about Discourse Markers is availabe from the Cambridge Online Dictionary.