Importance of linking words

Linking words or expressions are sometimes known as 'connectives'. They help you to join words or sentences. The following are common linking words used in English.

She went to school in spite of the heavy rain.

After she had written the letter, she posted it.

The servant swept the hall after everyone had left.

Although it was getting dark, the boys continued to play.

Although he failed the GCE A/L examination, he managed to find a job.

As there was no teacher in the class, the students started singing.

She went to temple yesterday as it was a Poya day.

As she was closing the door, she saw a stranger at the gate.

Because of his forgetfulness, he faced many problems in office.

My friend did not turn up because of the rain.

Shyama turned the air conditioner on because it was warm.

I practise yoga exercises because my friend asked me to do so.

If you hit me, I'll hit you.

If it happens to be a bright day, we can play cricket.

If I were a minister, I would clean up the mess.

She might buy a car if she won a lottery.

You cannot learn the keyboard if you do not practise.

Since he was busy, I decided to meet him some other day.

He has not been able to walk since he broke his leg.

When you have finished your work, you can go home.

When we are ill, we go to a doctor.

My hand hurts when I write.

When you are in Rome, do as the Romans do.

In spite of the teacher's warning, students continued to be boisterous.

Note: Write 'in spite of' as three words.

The patient didn't recover in spite of taking the pills.

She went to school in spite of the heavy rain.

Despite the bad weather, we went to school on time.

Note: Do not use 'of' after 'despite'.

'Despite' and 'in spite of' have the same meaning.

Mervyn wanted to contest despite his unpopularity.

Rocky is hot-tempered and arrogant. Nevertheless, he is a brilliant administrator.

Fonseka was a brave soldier. However, he didn't get a promotion.

I bought a car, but I can’t drive it.

The sergeant was uncooperative, but we compelled him to take down our complaint.

I bought a car, but I can't drive it.

Mary always travels by train, whereas her sister prefers to travel by bus.

'Though' and 'although' have the same meaning. However, 'though' is informal.

Although she wanted to buy the camera, she did not have money.

'Even though' is more emphatic than 'although'.

Even though you do not like her, try to be nice to her.

As soon as we entered the classroom, it started to rain.

'As soon as' means 'immediately after'.

Take these traveller's cheques in case you want to buy something.

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