In writing, clarity and flow are key elements that help readers understand the message being conveyed. One powerful tool used to achieve this is the cohesive device. These are words or phrases that connect ideas, sentences, and paragraphs together smoothly. They act like glue, holding the structure of writing intact and ensuring that the reader can follow the logic or argument with ease. In both academic and creative writing, cohesive devices are essential for maintaining coherence and helping ideas progress naturally. Exploring examples of cohesive devices, especially through five commonly used ones, can offer a practical understanding of how they enhance communication.
What Are Cohesive Devices?
Cohesive devices, sometimes known as linking words or connectors, are language tools that establish connections between parts of a text. They serve various functions such as indicating contrast, adding information, showing cause and effect, or giving examples. Without them, writing can appear disjointed or confusing, especially when transitioning between ideas or paragraphs.
Functions of Cohesive Devices
- To signal sequence or order
- To compare or contrast ideas
- To show cause and effect
- To add supporting information
- To give examples or clarify points
Five Common Examples of Cohesive Devices
1. Furthermore
Furthermore is used to add more information or extend an argument. It typically appears at the beginning of a sentence and introduces a new point that supports the previous one. This cohesive device is often found in academic or persuasive writing, where building up a case with multiple supporting ideas is necessary.
ExampleThe new policy will benefit small businesses. Furthermore, it is expected to boost local employment.
In this example, furthermore links the two ideas together and emphasizes that the second point strengthens the first.
2. However
However is used to show contrast or present a conflicting idea. It signals a shift in perspective or an opposing viewpoint. This cohesive device helps maintain balance in writing by acknowledging counterarguments or different opinions.
ExampleThe team played well during the first half. However, they lost focus in the second half and eventually lost the game.
Here, however connects two contrasting ideas, helping the reader understand the shift in tone or result.
3. Because
Because is a common cohesive device used to explain cause and effect. It connects an action with its reason and is widely used in both spoken and written English. This connector helps make explanations more precise and clear.
ExampleShe stayed home because she wasn’t feeling well.
In this sentence, because makes the relationship between staying home and not feeling well clear to the reader.
4. For example
For example is used to introduce illustrations or specific instances that support a general idea. This cohesive device is especially useful in educational, informative, and analytical writing, where clarity is essential.
ExampleMany animals have adapted to urban environments. For example, raccoons are known to live comfortably in cities.
This device helps provide concrete details that make the general statement more relatable or understandable.
5. Therefore
Therefore is a logical connector that signals the conclusion or result of a previous idea. It is often used in analytical writing or problem-solving contexts where showing cause and consequence is important.
ExampleThe weather was severe, and all flights were delayed. Therefore, the meeting had to be postponed.
The use of therefore here connects the cause (weather and flight delays) with the effect (postponed meeting).
How to Use Cohesive Devices Effectively
Avoid Overuse
While cohesive devices are helpful, using too many of them can make writing feel artificial or forced. Good writing maintains a natural flow, using connectors only when they serve a purpose. Choose the device that best matches the relationship between ideas and avoid repetition.
Match the Purpose
Each cohesive device serves a different function, so it’s important to match the device with the intent of the sentence. For example, don’t use however when you mean to add a similar idea. Instead, use moreover or in addition.
Place Them Correctly
Cohesive devices can appear at the beginning, middle, or end of a sentence depending on the structure. Some, like however, are often placed at the beginning of a second clause and followed by a comma. Others, like because, fit naturally between two clauses.
Why Understanding Cohesive Devices Matters
Improving Writing Skills
Learning to use cohesive devices properly can dramatically improve your writing skills. Whether you are writing essays, emails, reports, or even creative stories, these devices help your thoughts come across clearly. Readers can follow your logic, see the relationships between your points, and better understand your argument or narrative.
Enhancing Reading Comprehension
Being familiar with cohesive devices also helps with reading comprehension. When you understand how ideas are connected, you can identify the main arguments, conclusions, and supporting points more easily. This skill is particularly useful for students, professionals, and anyone who reads for information.
Developing Academic and Professional Communication
Cohesive devices are frequently used in formal writing and public communication. Mastering their use makes your writing sound more polished, logical, and credible. Whether in school essays, presentations, or business reports, cohesive writing gives a better impression and promotes understanding.
Practice Makes Perfect
To become comfortable with using cohesive devices, practice writing paragraphs using the five examples mentioned. Try linking different types of sentences and experiment with various connectors. Read topics or books and identify which cohesive devices are being used. Over time, this awareness will translate into more effective communication in your own work.
Cohesive devices play a vital role in making writing and speech more effective and coherent. Understanding how to use them properly enhances both the clarity and flow of your message. The five examples furthermore, however, because, for example, and therefore represent some of the most frequently used and practical cohesive devices in English. Mastering their usage can transform disorganized or confusing text into structured and engaging content. Whether you’re a student, a professional, or simply looking to improve your communication skills, learning how to apply cohesive devices is a step toward more powerful and persuasive language.