Introduction

In English, connectors are used to link ideas and show relationships between clauses. This guide focuses on four essential connectors: however, although, because, and so, as well as common time connectors like before, after, and while. These connectors help make your sentences clear and logical.

Clauses of Contrast

However

The word however is used to introduce a contrasting idea. It often starts a new sentence and is followed by a comma.

Correct: We wanted to go hiking. However, it started to rain.

Incorrect: We wanted to go hiking however, it started to rain.

Although

Although introduces a contrast within the same sentence. It is followed by a subject and a verb. Do not use a comma after although.

Correct: Although it was cold, we went swimming.

Incorrect: Although, it was cold, we went swimming.

Clauses of Reason

Because

Because explains the reason for something. Use it before a subject and a verb.

Correct: She stayed home because she was sick.

Incorrect: She stayed home because of she was sick.

Because of

Because of is followed by a noun or noun phrase.

Correct: She stayed home because of her illness.

Incorrect: She stayed home because of she was sick.

Clauses of Result

So

So shows the result of an action. It is usually placed in the middle of a sentence, preceded by a comma.

Correct: It was late, so we decided to go home.

Incorrect: It was late so we decided to go home.

Time Connectors

Before

Use before with a noun, -ing verb, or a full clause.

Correct: Before leaving, she checked her bag.

Incorrect: Before to leave, she checked her bag.

After

After works similarly to before and can be followed by a noun, -ing verb, or a clause.

Correct: They ate dinner after arriving home.

Incorrect: They ate dinner after they have arrived home.

While

Use while to talk about two actions happening at the same time.

Correct: He listened to music while studying.

Incorrect: He listened to music while he studies.

Common Mistakes

• Incorrect: When he will arrive, we’ll start the meeting.
• Correct: When he arrives, we’ll start the meeting.