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Discourse markers: nevertheless, consequently, as a matter of fact
C1 C1 grammar · lesson 9 of 16
Discourse markers are the signposts of a text. They show how one idea connects to the next, so readers and listeners can follow your argument easily.
What are discourse markers?
At B2 you used linkers like despite, whereas and so that inside a sentence. Discourse markers usually connect two sentences or two parts of a longer text. They often come at the start of a sentence, followed by a comma, but many can also go in the middle.
| Function | Markers |
|---|---|
| Contrast | nevertheless, nonetheless, however, even so, on the other hand |
| Result | consequently, as a result, therefore, thus, hence |
| Addition | moreover, furthermore, in addition, what is more |
| Real situation / surprise | as a matter of fact, in fact, actually |
| Changing topic | by the way, incidentally, as for |
| Summarising | in short, all in all, to sum up, on the whole |
Examples in context
The plan was risky. Nevertheless, the team decided to try it.
The factory closed. Consequently, many families moved away.
The flat is close to the station. Moreover, the rent is reasonable.
“You must be tired.” “As a matter of fact, I feel great.”
The hotel was old; even so, we really enjoyed our stay.
Prices have risen sharply; hence the need for a new budget.
Incidentally, have you heard from Lucy recently?
The food was good and the staff were kind. All in all, a great evening.
Grammar and punctuation
Discourse markers are adverbs, not conjunctions. This means they cannot join two clauses with only a comma. Use a full stop or a semicolon before them.
✓ It was expensive; however, we bought it.
✓ It was expensive. However, we bought it.
Some markers can move to the middle or end: The test was hard. Anna passed, nevertheless. / We therefore recommend a change.
Hence is very formal and is often followed by a noun phrase rather than a full clause: The road was closed, hence the delay.
Common mistakes
✗ The weather was bad, nevertheless we went out.
✓ The weather was bad. Nevertheless, we went out.
✗ He didn’t study. Moreover, he passed the exam.
✓ He didn’t study. Nevertheless, he passed the exam.
✗ Actually, I’m living in Leeds now since a year.
✓ Actually, I’ve been living in Leeds for a year now.
✗ As a matter of fact that, I agree.
✓ As a matter of fact, I agree.