TOEFL Grammar - Linking words

Some examples of questions related to linking words on the TOEFL

There is no fixed rule for using linking words. So you have to memorize them, or at least understand them in context. In the TOEFL , when you need to insert or understand a linking word, you must first decide the link between the ideas that are to be linked. For example, in the following sentence, there is an opposition between the two ideas, so you need to know how to express this contrast:

The children went out to play _____ it was raining.

(A) Although

(B) Despite

(C) Whereas

(D) Instead

Having understood what kind of word or phrase is appropriate, one must choose the linking word that is grammatically appropriate. The list below offers several possibilities for expressing this opposition (instead, whereas, despite, although). Understanding the grammatical function of the word or phrase is necessary to know that the only word that is appropriate here is "although."

The children went out to play___the rain.

This example presents the same notion of opposition, but grammatically, the correct answer here would be "despite," because it is a word that is always followed by a noun, while "although" is always followed by a subject and a verb.

TOEFL Preparation

Linking Word List - TOEFL

Below is a list of linking words to express other concepts, such as addition, cause, consequence, exemplarity, etc.

English Linking Words - TOEFL: Addition

• Moreover - Moreover: " The alarm will ring if there is a robbery. Moreover, it will discourage people from trying to rob the bank. "
• Furthermore - Furthermore, moreover: " They reject our accusations. Furthermore, they claim that the loss is our responsibility. "
• Besides - Besides, in addition to: “ Do you play other sports besides football? / She won’t mind you being late – besides, it’s not your fault. ”
• In addition - In addition to: “ In addition, there were parallel meetings with management. ”
• Also - Also, likewise: " This is also extremely interesting. "
• As well as - As well as : " We have invited friends as well as family to the wedding. "
• Too - Also, likewise : " I'll support you. Bob will too. "

Linking Words - TOEFL: Condition

• Long ace - As long as: " As long as you do what we tell you, you'll be ok. "
• Even if - Even if: “ Even if you find it too difficult, keep on trying. ”
• In case - Just in case: “ You should read it again in case you misunderstood something. ”
• In the event of - In the case of: " In the event of fire, please use this extinguisher. "
• Unless - Unless: “ Unless we hear from you in the next two weeks, we shall be forced to take legal action. ”
• Wether - If (yes or no): " I don't know whether to laugh or cry. "
• On condition that - On condition: “ She has agreed on condition that there is no publicity involved. ”
• Provided, providing (that) - Provided that: "He'll help us provided (that) he can bring his dog with him."

Linking Words - TOEFL: Contrast / Opposition