Transition Words and Phrases

Transition words and phrases carry the reader from one idea to the next. Use the lists below, grouped by what each transition does, to connect sentences and paragraphs in your essays. This page is based on American School’s Transition Words grammar help sheet (PDF).

Why transitions matter

Writers move from one idea to another and must take the reader along. If the body of a composition is to be unified, each sentence must connect to the ones before and after it, and each paragraph to the ones around it. The most common transitional words are and, but, for and yet.

Transitional phrases develop the connection between one group of sentences and the next. To show time or order, use words like at first, then or soon. In a logical argument, on the one hand, on the other hand, but and however make the turns clear. To list ideas, connect them with in the first place, also, finally and in conclusion.

When an idea is too big for one paragraph, a one-sentence transition can pull together the point you just made and open the next one. Transitional paragraphs bridge gaps between paragraphs so the reader does not get lost.

Transitions That Show Time

after
always
eventually
finally
first
following
immediately
last
later
meanwhile
now
sometimes
soon
then
until

Transitions That Show Place and Position

above
ahead
around
below
beneath
down
far
here
horizontally
inside
near
next to
opposite
outside
over
parallel
there
under
vertically
within

Transitions That Show Cause and Effect

as a result
because
consequently
for that reason
so
so that
therefore

Transitions That Show Comparison and Contrast

but
however
in the same way
like
on the contrary
on the other hand
similarly
unlike

Transitions That Show Examples

for example
for instance
namely
that is

Transitions That List or Conclude Ideas

in the first place
also
finally
in conclusion

Transitions in a sentence

Time: First, read the assignment. Then, make an outline.
Cause and effect: The paragraph had no clear transitions; as a result, the reader lost track of the argument.
Contrast: Print courses arrive by mail. On the other hand, online courses are taken through the Online Student Center.
Example: Some transitions show place, for example, above, beneath and next to.

Frequently asked questions

What are transition words?

Transition words and phrases connect one idea to the next. They link each sentence to the ones before and after it, and each paragraph to the ones around it, so the reader can follow the writing from point to point.

What are some transition words that show time?

Words such as after, first, then, meanwhile, later, soon, finally and until show the order in which things happen.

What transition words show contrast?

Words like but, however, on the other hand, on the contrary and unlike signal a contrast; in the same way, similarly and like signal a comparison.

More writing help

See all of our free English help sheets on grammar, punctuation, essay writing and study skills, or browse American School’s accredited high school courses.