English — Linking adverbs / connectors
Linking adverbs such as however, therefore and moreover connect ideas across sentences and signal relationships like contrast, result or addition. Unlike conjunctions, they are not grammatical joiners — punctuation is what holds the clauses together.
How it works
A linking adverb usually opens a new sentence and is followed by a comma: The plan was risky. However, it worked. To join two clauses in one sentence, put a semicolon before the adverb and a comma after it: It rained heavily; therefore, the match was cancelled. The adverb can also sit mid-sentence between commas: The results, moreover, were unexpected.
Common connectors
| Connector | Relationship | Example |
|---|---|---|
| however | contrast | The offer looked good. However, we declined it. |
| therefore | result / conclusion | She missed the deadline; therefore, she lost the contract. |
| moreover | addition | The house is small. Moreover, it needs repairs. |
| nevertheless | concession (despite that) | It was expensive; nevertheless, we bought it. |
| on the other hand | contrast (other side) | Trains are fast. On the other hand, they are pricey. |
| as a result | result / consequence | Sales dropped; as a result, prices were cut. |
| in addition | addition | The flat has a garden. In addition, parking is free. |
Good to know
Do not join two full clauses with just a comma before a linking adverb — that is a comma splice: It was late, however we stayed is wrong. Use a full stop or a semicolon instead: It was late. However, we stayed / It was late; however, we stayed. Note that however meaning "in whatever way" takes no comma: Do it however you like.