Illinois Wesleyan Writing Center and Tutoring Services | Last Updated May 2021
Transitional Words and Phrases
Defined: “Words or phrases that help carry a thought from one
sentence to another, from
one idea to another, or from one paragraph to another” (Purdue OWL
“Transitional Devices”).
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...But WHY use them?
In short, to help guide your readers!
In long: “Transitional devices link sentences and paragraphs together smoothly so that
there are no abrupt jumps or breaks between ideas” (Purdue OWL “Transitional
Devices”).
By transitioning between your ideas, you can help your audience follow along. Not only
does it show credibility, but it makes your writing accessible to a wider range (consider
readers outside of your major!). Additionally, it lessens your risk of miscommunicating.
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The Purdue Online Writing Lab offers the following common transitions within a handful of
categories, and how they may cue your readers to the direction you’re taking as the writer:
To ADD:
*To expand the range of a point you’ve already begun making:
- and - further - what’s more
- again - furthermore - moreover
- and then - nor - in addition
- besides - too - first (second, etc.)
- equally important - next
- finally - lastly
Ex.
Transitional words and phrases can help you direct your readers. Furthermore, using
transitional devices well in a paper helps establish your credibility as a writer.
To COMPARE:
*To compare a point you’re about to make with one that you’ve already established:
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A more comprehensive overview of transitional words and phrases can be found on the Purdue OWL page titled
“Transitional Devices”
