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Ch 10

Linking & Discourse

Despite/although · cause/result · addition

Linking words at B2

B2 writing requires sophisticated linking — connectors that show relationships between ideas: addition, contrast, cause, result, and example.

Addition
in addition, furthermore, moreover, what's more, besides
Contrast
however, nevertheless, on the other hand, whereas, while
Cause
because, as, since, due to, owing to, on account of
Result
therefore, consequently, as a result, thus, hence
Example
for example, for instance, such as, namely, in particular

Despite / in spite of vs although

despite / in spite of + noun/-ing
Despite the rain, we went out.
In spite of being tired, she worked late.
Despite the fact that it was raining...
although / even though + clause
Although it was raining, we went out.
Even though she was tired, she worked late.
despite + noun or -ing · although + clause. Both express contrast, but the grammar differs.

Cause vs result connectors

Cause (because of...)
Because it rained, the match was cancelled.
+ clause
Due to / Owing to the rain, the match was cancelled.
+ noun (formal)
Result (... so / therefore)
It rained, so the match was cancelled.
It rained heavily; therefore, the match was cancelled.

Adding ideas with sophistication

in addition
The course is interesting. In addition, it's free.
furthermore
She is talented. Furthermore, she works hard. (formal)
moreover
The plan is ambitious; moreover, it is realistic.
what's more
He plays piano. What's more, he composes too. (informal)
not only ... but also
She is not only kind but also intelligent.

Common mistakes

Despite it was raining, we went out.
→
Despite the rain / Although it was raining, we went out.
despite + noun · although + clause
Although raining, we went out.
→
Although it was raining, we went out.
although needs a full clause
Because of it rained, we stayed in.
→
Because it rained / Because of the rain, we stayed in.
because + clause · because of + noun

Recap

Addition
in addition · furthermore · moreover
furthermore (formal writing)
Contrast
although + clause · despite + noun/-ing
although it rained / despite the rain
Cause/result
due to + noun · therefore (new sentence)
due to rain; therefore, cancelled
Not only ... but also
paired addition emphasis
not only kind but also smart
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