Discourse Markers helps you communicate about coherence and management of longer discourse. Start with the meaning, notice the pattern, and then use it in complete sentences.
By the end of this lesson, you can
- I can organize extended speech and writing with appropriate discourse markers.
- Recognise and build the form: sentence-level markers for sequencing, contrast, reformulation, stance and conclusion.
- Use the pattern accurately in a meaningful sentence.
Meaning and use
Use Discourse Markers for coherence and management of longer discourse. Always read the whole situation before choosing the form: grammar expresses a meaning, not only a pattern.
To begin with, let's review what we have agreed so far.
'To begin with' signals the first stage of an organized discussion.
The first option is cheaper. On the other hand, the second is more reliable.
'On the other hand' introduces a contrasting consideration.
The system is obsolete; in other words, it no longer receives updates.
'In other words' reformulates the previous idea more clearly.
sentence-level markers for sequencing, contrast, reformulation, stance and conclusionKeep this pattern visible while you study the examples. Then cover it and rebuild one example from memory.
Key rules to notice
These rules explain why the form is correct. Focus on the subject, auxiliary, verb form, word order and time or meaning clues.
- 'To begin with' signals the first stage of an organized discussion.
- 'On the other hand' introduces a contrasting consideration.
- 'In other words' reformulates the previous idea more clearly.
- 'For example' introduces a specific illustration.
- 'Therefore' introduces a conclusion based on the preceding evidence.
Common mistakes
Not:Nevertheless, let's review what we have agreed so far.
Use:To begin with, let's review what we have agreed so far.
'To begin with' signals the first stage of an organized discussion.
Not:The first option is cheaper. For example, the second is more reliable.
Use:The first option is cheaper. On the other hand, the second is more reliable.
'On the other hand' introduces a contrasting consideration.
Not:The system is obsolete; for instance, it no longer receives updates.
Use:The system is obsolete; in other words, it no longer receives updates.
'In other words' reformulates the previous idea more clearly.
Check before you practise
Complete each sentence mentally, then reveal the answer.
Several factors caused the delay. ____, the supplier missed the deadline.
For example
'For example' introduces a specific illustration.
The evidence is limited. ____, we should avoid a firm conclusion.
Therefore
'Therefore' introduces a conclusion based on the preceding evidence.
____, the benefits outweigh the risks.
Overall
'Overall' signals a summary evaluation.