In this guide
What you will be able to do
- Connect ideas according to the relationship
- Compare a scripted answer with a connected answer
- Practise responding to the previous speaker
Connect ideas according to the relationship
Discourse markers in spoken English help listeners follow a contribution, recognise a shift and understand your response to another speaker. Choose them by function: adding, contrasting, reformulating or returning to the main topic.
“Actually” often corrects an assumption and can sound confrontational if used repeatedly. “On the other hand” introduces a contrasting consideration; it does not simply mean next. “Anyway” can return to a topic but may sound dismissive if it cuts off someone’s concern.
| Function | Example | Register note |
|---|---|---|
| Add | There is also a training cost. | Neutral and easy to follow. |
| Qualify | That said, the pilot was small. | Useful when acknowledging a limitation. |
| Reformulate | In other words, we need approval before spending. | Clarifies an existing idea. |
| Return | Coming back to the deadline, what can we finish today? | Makes a topic return explicit. |
| Conclude | So, our next step is to test the revised process. | Summarises a consequence or decision. |
Compare a scripted answer with a connected answer
Overloaded version: “Firstly, moreover, furthermore, the system is useful. Nevertheless, on the other hand, it is expensive.” The markers do not repair the unclear relationships. A clearer version is: “The system could save us time. That said, the licence is expensive, so I would test it with one team first.”
The second version has a benefit, qualification and consequence. It also leaves room for a response. In conversation, a brief pause or clear sentence order may connect ideas without an explicit marker. Avoid inserting a transition at the beginning of every sentence.
Practise responding to the previous speaker
Partner A says: “We should cancel the weekly meeting.” Partner B must acknowledge the idea, add a limitation and offer an alternative. A possible reply is: “That could free up time. That said, new colleagues need a place to ask questions. Could we shorten the meeting instead?”
Now swap roles and discuss a different decision. Review whether the marker reflects the actual relationship and whether the reply addresses the previous speaker. If removing a marker makes the answer clearer, remove it. The goal is connected meaning rather than a high count of linking expressions.
Continue with guided practice
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Useful answers
Frequently asked questions
Should I begin every sentence with a discourse marker?
No. Clear ordering, a pause or a relevant response may provide enough connection. Add a marker when it helps a listener understand the relationship.
Sources, scope and accuracy
Original Cambridge Veritas learning guide. Cases and figures are fictional practice examples. Activities are self-study aids, not validated proficiency assessments. Cambridge Veritas offers CVAF; consult the course page for current programme details.
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