We use linking words to link ideas in our talking and writing. Linking words enable our ideas to flow logically and cohesively. In doing so, our listeners and readers will have an easy time understanding us.

We use linking words to add ideas together, contrast ideas, or show the reason for something.

There are three main types of linking words:

• Conjunctions
• Sentence connectors
• Subordinators

We use subordinators to introduce subordinate (dependent) clauses. Subordinate clauses do not normally stand alone. Thus, they are also known as dependent clauses. They are called dependent clauses as they make no sense by themselves. Consider the following:

• While they were away
• While I was watching the show

They make no sense by themselves. However, they do when we add the independent (main) clause:

• While they were away, I helped myself to the food on the table.
• A man knocked on the door while I was watching the show.

We will usually place subordinators at the beginning or in the middle of a sentence.

Although

• Although the field was muddy, the football game went on.

• I did not get wet although it was raining heavily.

Though

• Though it is raining heavily, the football game went on.

• The concert was not cancelled though the turnout was low.

Even though

• Even though I had 1 hour to shop, I did not find the bag I wanted.

• He continued to work even though he was sick.

While

• While you are having a shower, I will prepare breakfast.

• I was reading the newspaper while my wife was ironing the clothes.

Whereas

• Some married couples argue all the time whereas others never do.

• In the UK, the hottest month is usually July, whereas in southern Europe, it is August.

Since

• Since everyone is going to the party tonight, I will go too.

• We will not wait for Peter since he will be late.

So that

• I will apply for leave today so that I can take care of you.

• We will set off by 3pm so that we can avoid the rush-hour traffic.

Because

• Jack did not do very well for his English paper because he was sick.

• I love to travel because it broadens my horizons.

As

• As it is late, we will talk tomorrow.

• Alice decides to take a cab to school as she is late.

If

• If you get an A for your English paper, I will give you a treat at your favourite restaurant.

• I will only help you if you agree to my conditions.

Whether

• Whether you succeed or not depends on the amount of work you put in.

• I have no idea whether to listen to Peter or John.

Unless

• Unless you work hard, you will fail this exam.

• We will not be able to finish this project unless we work as a team.

Wherever

• Wherever Peter goes, Sue follows him.

• I will bring an umbrella along wherever I go.

Where

• I will meet you at the shop where we bought your birthday cake.

• The place where I often frequent is closed for renovation.

How

• I have no idea how he does it.

• I will tell you how I do the trick.

After

• After the rain, the weather is much cooler.

• I will go to bed after I have done my homework.

When

• When Sally found her wallet at the ladies, she heaved a sigh of relief.

• Kevin hid in the bushes when he saw his enemy.

Until

• John does his work until midnight everyday.

• Every Sunday, Jack will watch cartoons with his nephews until dinner time.

Whenever

• Whenever Lynn travels overseas, she will buy gifts for her friends.

• Jack will not drive whenever he feels dizzy.

Before

• Before we set off for the zoo, do you have any other questions?

• Let us do an equipment check before we set off.

Since

• Since April this year, we have been working on the project.

• I have been living here since 2000.