Grammatical Connectors Flashcards

Choose the connector that best expresses a cause-and-effect relationship: 'He studied for weeks; _______, he passed the exam with high marks.'

Answer: consequently

'Consequently' signals that the result (passing) directly follows from the cause (studying).

Which sentence uses 'despite' correctly?

Answer: Despite being tired, she finished the report.

'Despite' must be followed by a noun phrase or gerund, not a clause introduced by 'that' or a bare subject.

Select the best connector: 'The new policy reduces costs; _______, it improves employee morale.'

Answer: furthermore

'Furthermore' adds a second benefit to the first, showing accumulation of positive outcomes.

Which word correctly introduces a concession? 'She had very little experience. _______, she got the job.'

Answer: Nonetheless

'Nonetheless' introduces a result that is surprising given the preceding statement (little experience).

Identify the error: 'Because of the store was closed, we went elsewhere.'

Answer: 'Because of' should be 'Because'

'Because of' is a preposition followed by a noun phrase, not a subject-verb clause; use 'Because' to introduce a full clause.

Choose the correct sentence using 'not only … but also':

Answer: She not only sings but also dances.

With 'not only … but also,' the verb phrase structure must be parallel; 'not only sings but also dances' maintains parallel verb forms.

Which connector shows contrast between two independent clauses joined by a semicolon? 'Maria prefers classical music; _______, her brother listens only to jazz.'

Answer: by contrast

'By contrast' explicitly signals that the second clause presents an opposing preference to the first.