TRANSITION WORDS

Directions: Two steps should be used when you consult this list. First, determine the type of signal you need. Next, select from that signal group the word which is most appropriate to the meaning of your sentences.

Note: The same transition word or phrase can sometimes serve different purposes.

Type of Signal

Words to Use (Signal Group)

To signal an addition:

in addition, furthermore, moreover, also, equally important

To signal an example:

for example, for instance, thus, in other words, as an illustration, in particular

To signal a suggestion:

for this purpose, to this end, with this object

To signal emphasis:

indeed, truly, again, to repeat, infact

To signal a summary:

In summary, therefore, finally, consequently, thus, accordingly, in short, in brief, as a result, on the whole

To signal the development of a sequence:

Value sequence: first, second, secondly, third, thirdly, next, last, finally

Time sequence: then, afterward, next, subsequently, previously, first, second, at last, meanwhile, in the meantime, immediately, soon, at length, yesterday, today, tomorrow, eventually

Space sequence: above, across, under, beyond, below, nearby, nearer, opposite to, adjacent to, to the left/right, in the foreground, in the background

To signal a relationship:

Similarity: similarly, likewise, in like manner

Contrast: in contrast to, however, but, still, nevertheless, yet, conversely, notwithstanding, on the other hand, on the contrary, at the same time

Cause and Effect: consequently, thus, therefore, accordingly, hence, as a result