Signal words

Signal words can be used to lead a reader in a particular direction. They are useful when writing an essay or reading a comprehension passage.

Introduction: to begin with, to start with, first of all, initially, in the first place

Continuing: secondly, afterwards, then, next, in addition, furthermore, another point, the steps involved are

Conclusion: to sum up, finally, lastly, last of all, to conclude

Comparison [how things are alike]: likewise, in the same way, at the same time, in the same manner, similarly, equally, not only…but also, compared to, and, as well as

Contrast [how things are different]: however, on the other hand, but, on the contrary, in contrast, although, even though, instead of, as opposed to, while

Illustration: for example, for instance, like, such as

Result: as a result, therefore, thus, for this reason, consequently, hence, the effects of, leads/led to, is caused by, may be due to, because of this, since

Emphasis: not only this but also, what is more, in fact, besides, most of all, a significant factor, a major development, a key feature, a primary concern, a major event, a central issue, above all, it is important to note, the basic concept

Uncertainty: almost, it looks like, maybe, could, alleged, might, reputed, seems like, was reported, probably, it could be argued that, typically
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1 comment for "Signal words"

  1. With this edition it will be more appropriate for the students to put all those necessary details and objects which they might need to understand. esl editor

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