Add → and / also
The next idea goes in the same direction.
- I enjoyed the lesson, and I used the phrases later.
Free cheat sheet 05 · B1 and above
Connect Your Ideas
Choose the link that shows your meaning.
Before choosing a linking word, decide what the second idea is doing. Is it adding, turning, explaining or showing a result?
What to use—and when
Make the choice by meaning.
Turn → but / although
The next idea is different or surprising.
- I was nervous, but I kept talking.
- Although I was nervous, I kept talking.
Give a reason → because
Explain why something happened.
- I stayed in because it was raining.
Show a result → so
Say what happened because of the first idea.
- It was raining, so I stayed in.
The quick check
Keep this beside you.
- Same direction? → and
- A turn or surprise? → but / although
- Why? → because
- What happened as a result? → so
Notice the difference
A small change can change the meaning.
The weather is the reason.
Staying in is the result.
Two common slips
A useful fix for next time.
Instead ofAlthough it was late, but we stayed.
UseAlthough it was late, we stayed.
Although already makes the contrast.Instead ofBecause it rained, so we stayed in.
UseBecause it rained, we stayed in.
Use because or so for this link, not both.