Chapter XII Logical Connectives

2301晨花鹿

Logical connectives are expressions that link two adjacent ideas, guiding readers through the logical flow of a text. Unlike Chinese, which often relies on implicit coherence (意合), English demands explicit cohesion (形合). Without clear connectives, English writing can feel abrupt or disjointed. As the textbook puts it, logical connectives are “the glue that holds English discourse together.”

Functions of Logical Connectives
Addition: and, moreover, in addition
Contrast: but, on the contrary, instead
Cause and Effect: because, thus, hence
Similarity: likewise, similarly, in the same way
Purpose: in order that, to this end, for this purpose
Chronology: after, then, meanwhile
Logical Order: in the first place, next, finally
Examples: for instance, as an example, specifically
Concession: granted, to be sure, of course
Emphasis: indeed, in fact, surely
Restatement: that is, in other words, as has been said
Summary: to sum up, in short, in conclusion

Note: Writers just like me with a Chinese language background, may unintentionally omit connectives due to native habits. This kind of mistake is often hard to detect, simply because I’m not even aware it's there.
For example:
❌ Because the British side stuck to its position... there was no progress. In March 1983 Mrs. Thatcher wrote...
✅ Because the British side stuck to its position... there was no progress. In March 1983, however, Mrs. Thatcher wrote...
Analysis: Adding “however” clarifies the contrast and improves cohesion.

Note: There are two frequently misused expressions.
while – It can mean either "at the same time" or "whereas", leading to confusion.
❌The visitors were offered tea in the courtyard, while dinner was served indoors.
✅Is this simultaneity or contrast?

with – This seemingly simple word can be vague when used to introduce a reason.
❌With the rapid growth of automobile imports... Chen was promoted.
✅Because of the rapid growth... Chen was promoted.

Reflection:
Overusing connectives can be distracting, but underusing them—especially in English—risks making our writing illogical or flat. Striking the right balance is key. We should learn to use connectives purposefully to clarify relationships, improve flow, and guide readers through our argument.