The Rule
| Function | Markers | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Adding | furthermore, moreover, in addition, what is more, on top of that | Furthermore, the data supports our strategy. |
| Contrasting | however, nevertheless, nonetheless, on the other hand, that said, even so | The costs are high. However, the potential return is significant. |
| Conceding | although, even though, while, whereas, admittedly, granted | Admittedly, the timeline is aggressive. |
| Cause & result | therefore, consequently, as a result, hence, thus, for this reason | Consequently, we had to revise the strategy. |
| Exemplifying | for instance, for example, such as, namely, in particular | Several factors, in particular the pricing, need review. |
| Summarising | in conclusion, to sum up, overall, in short, in brief, all in all | In conclusion, we recommend proceeding. |
| Sequencing | firstly, to begin with, subsequently, then, finally, lastly | Firstly, we reviewed the data. |
Position matters:
Mid-sentence with commas: The project was delayed. However, we delivered on budget.
Within clause: The project was delayed although we delivered on budget.
Register: moreover/furthermore/consequently = formal (reports, presentations)
but/so/also = informal (conversation, internal messages)
Mid-sentence with commas: The project was delayed. However, we delivered on budget.
Within clause: The project was delayed although we delivered on budget.
Register: moreover/furthermore/consequently = formal (reports, presentations)
but/so/also = informal (conversation, internal messages)
Common Mistakes
The costs are high. However the potential return justifies them.
The costs are high. However, the potential return justifies them. (comma after however)
The results were poor. Therefore, but we decided to continue.
The results were poor. Therefore, we decided to continue. (remove 'but')
Although the project was late, but it was delivered on budget.
Although the project was late, it was delivered on budget. (remove 'but')
The strategy has worked well. Furthermore, there are still some risks.
The strategy has worked well. However, there are still some risks. (contrast needed, not addition)
Gap Fill — Press Enter to Check
Error Correction
Multiple Choice
Put the Words in the Correct Order
Sentence Transformation — Press Enter to Check
Conversation Practice
1
Give a 2-minute presentation on a topic from your work. Use at least 5 different discourse markers.
2
Practise contrasting: use however, that said, and nevertheless to discuss the pros and cons of something at your company.
3
Structure an argument using: firstly, furthermore, however, nevertheless, in conclusion.
Homework
Write a short report (10 sentences) about a challenge or opportunity at your company. Use at least 6 different discourse markers. Underline each one.