Sentence Coordinators (Connectors): English Standard 7

Meaning of coordinators

Coordinators (often called connectors or linking words) are essential tools in English. They act like bridges, linking two ideas together to show how they relate to one another. Without them, writing can feel choppy or confusing.

Below are your notes categorized by how these specific words are used.

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1.  Adding Information or Emphasis

These words are used when you want to add more detail or highlight a specific point.

• And: Used to join two similar ideas or items.
  • Example: She finished her homework and went out to play.
• In fact: Used to emphasize a statement or provide more specific detail.
  • Example: The test was easy. In fact, I finished it in ten minutes.
• Actually: Used to clarify a point or correct a misunderstanding.
  • Example: I thought he was angry, but actually, he was just tired.

2. Showing Contrast or Opposition

Use these when the second part of the sentence is different from or goes against the first part.

• But: Connects two contrasting ideas.
  • Example: It was raining, but we still went for a walk.
• However: Similar to “but,” used to introduce a statement that contrasts with what was just said.
  • Example: The team played well. However, they lost the match.
• Despite: Used to show that something happened even though there was an obstacle.
  • Example: Despite the loud noise, the baby slept soundly.

3. Showing Cause, Effect, or Result

These words explain why something happened or what the final outcome was.

• Therefore / Hence / Thus: All three mean “as a result” or “for this reason.”
  • Example: He did not study; therefore, he failed the exam.
  • Example: The experiment failed; hence, we must start over.
• Otherwise: Used to show what will happen if a specific condition is not met.
  • Example: You must hurry; otherwise, you will miss the bus

4. Showing Time and Summarizing

These help organize the flow of your writing.

• Meanwhile: Used to describe something happening at the same time as another event.
  • Example: My mother was cooking; meanwhile, I was setting the table.
• In short: Used to summarize a large amount of information into a brief statement.
  • Example: The hotel was dirty, the food was cold, and the staff was rude. In short, it was a terrible holiday.

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Summary Table for Quick Revision

Purpose	Coordinators
Addition	And, In fact, Actually
Contrast	But, However, Despite
Result	Therefore, Hence, Thus, Otherwise
Time/Summary	Meanwhile, In short

Pro-Tip: When using words like Therefore, However, and Meanwhile to start a new sentence, always place a comma after them!