This quiz works best with JavaScript enabled.
Home
>
English Grammar
>
Grammar
>
Discourse
>
Linking Words For Writing – Quiz 1
Linking Words For Writing Quiz 1 (30 MCQs)
This multiple-choice question set evaluates the understanding of coherence and logical structure in academic writing, focusing on linking words for contrast, cause and effect relationships, and conditional sentences vs noun phrases. It assesses students' ability to add information or support to a point, distinguish between types of linking words, and use conjunctions effectively.
Quiz Instructions
Select an option to see the correct answer instantly.
1.
My friends ..... I are a team.
A) But.
B) And.
C) So.
D) Because.
Show Answer
Explanations:
"Linking words for writing" are used to connect ideas, phrases, or clauses in a sentence. In the given sentence "My friends ..... I are a team," the linking word should logically connect the subjects "my friends" and "I." The correct choice is
Option B: And
, as it properly links the two subjects indicating that they together form a team.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
But - indicates contrast, not connection.
Option B:
And - correctly connects the subjects.
Option C:
So - implies a result or consequence, not a simple connection.
Option D:
Because - introduces a reason, not a direct link between subjects.
2.
What is the best way to combine these two sentences?Mr. Newcott loves buffalo chicken bites. Mr. Newcott likes barbecue chicken bites.
A) Mr. Newcott likes barbecue chicken bites but loves buffalo chicken bites.
B) Mr. Newcott loves barbecue but hates buffalo chicken.
C) Mr. Newcott likes barbecue chicken bites, on the contrary, Mr. Newcott loves buffalo chicken bites.
D) None of the above.
Show Answer
Explanations:
Option A correctly uses the linking word "but" to show contrast between Mr. Newcott's preferences for both types of chicken bites, accurately reflecting his love for buffalo chicken bites and liking for barbecue chicken bites.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Correctly uses "but" to indicate a contrast in preferences.
Option B:
Incorrectly suggests Mr. Newcott dislikes buffalo chicken bites, which is not supported by the original statements.
Option C:
Uses "on the contrary," which implies an opposite preference that isn't present in the original sentences.
Option D:
Indicates none of the options are correct, but Option A actually does fit the criteria well.
3.
Which linking word would best fit in the following sentence? "She is not only a great singer but also an excellent dancer."
A) Therefore.
B) But also.
C) Consequently.
D) However.
Show Answer
Explanations:
"However" is not the best fit for this sentence because it introduces a contrast, which is not present in the given statement. "She is not only a great singer but also an excellent dancer" presents two positive attributes without any contradiction or opposition.
Option B) But also correctly connects the two positive attributes, indicating that she possesses both qualities.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Therefore - Introduces a conclusion based on previous statements, which is not applicable here.
Option B:
But also - Correctly links the two positive attributes without contradiction.
Option C:
Consequently - Indicates a result or effect, which is not relevant in this context.
Option D:
However - Introduces a contrast, which does not fit as there is no opposition between the attributes mentioned.
4.
Which sentence below uses the words wood or would incorrectly?
A) Antoine spent the day chopping would.
B) Every day he would head downstairs.
C) Would you hand me the basket?.
D) My mother's old chair is made of wood.
Show Answer
Explanations:
Option A uses "would" incorrectly. In this context, "would" is used as a noun ("chopping would"), which is not grammatically correct. "Would" should be used as a modal verb to express past habits or conditional situations.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Incorrect use of "would". Should be "wood".
Option B:
Correct usage of "would" for expressing habitual actions.
Option C:
Correct usage of "would" in a polite request.
Option D:
Correct usage of "wood" as an adjective describing the chair.
5.
Not possibleSwimming alone is against the rules and, ..... , it's dangerous
A) Moreover.
B) Furthermore.
C) However.
D) In addition.
Show Answer
Explanations:
"However" is used to introduce a contrast, but the sentence does not present any contrasting idea; it continues with an explanation of why swimming alone is against the rules. "Moreover," "Furthermore," and "In addition" are all used to add information or support a point, making them suitable choices here.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Moreover - Adds information supporting a point.
Option B:
Furthermore - Adds information supporting a point.
Option C:
However - Incorrect as it introduces contrast, not additional information.
Option D:
In addition - Adds information supporting a point.
6.
..... Peter woke up late, he missed his first class on Monday.
A) Before.
B) As.
C) Despite.
D) When.
Show Answer
Explanations:
"Peter woke up late, he missed his first class on Monday." The sentence requires a linking word to connect the two clauses smoothly. "As" is used to indicate that one action happened during another and fits well here: Peter waking up late (one action) led to him missing his class (another action). This usage of "as" shows a temporal relationship.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Before - Incorrect. It implies an order but not the simultaneous occurrence or duration indicated by the sentence.
Option B:
As - Correct. Indicates that one action happened during another, fitting the context of Peter waking up late leading to missing his class.
Option C:
Despite - Incorrect. It suggests a contrast rather than a sequence or duration of actions.
Option D:
When - Incorrect. While it can indicate a time point, it does not fit as well in showing the sequence of events as "as" does here.
7.
Choose the correct linking word to complete the sentence:'She studied hard for the exam ..... , she passed with flying colors.'
A) However.
B) Meanwhile.
C) Nevertheless.
D) Therefore.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The sentence "She studied hard for the exam
Therefore
, she passed with flying colors." indicates a clear cause-and-effect relationship. The word "Therefore" is used to show that the result (passing with flying colors) is a direct consequence of the action (studying hard). This makes it the most appropriate linking word for this context.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
However - indicates contrast, not cause and effect.
Option B:
Meanwhile - suggests something happening at the same time, not a result of an action.
Option C:
Nevertheless - implies despite contrary expectations or circumstances, which is not applicable here.
Option D:
Therefore - correctly indicates that passing with flying colors is the result of studying hard.
8.
What does 'because' explain in a sentence?
A) 'Because' is used to provide a reason for something.
B) 'Because' is used to ask a question.
C) 'Because' is used to introduce a contrast in ideas.
D) 'Because' is used to express a condition.
Show Answer
Explanations:
'Because' is used to provide a reason for something, which helps explain why an event occurred or what caused another action or situation. This linking word introduces the cause of an effect or the reason behind a statement.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Correct. 'Because' explains the reason for something.
Option B:
Incorrect. 'Because' does not ask questions; it provides reasons.
Option C:
Incorrect. 'Because' introduces a cause, not contrast.
Option D:
Incorrect. 'Because' expresses the reason for something, not conditions.
9.
I like the VW Golf ..... I like the Alpha Romero 147.
A) Because.
B) While.
C) And.
D) Too.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The sentence "I like the VW Golf..... I like the Alpha Romero 147." is a list of preferences, and to connect two similar statements expressing likes in a sequence, the appropriate linking word is "And". This indicates that both preferences are being mentioned together.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Because - Introduces a reason or explanation, not a conjunction for listing similar ideas.
Option B:
While - Indicates contrast or simultaneous actions, which is not applicable here.
Option C:
And - Correctly connects two similar statements expressing likes in sequence.
Option D:
Too - Often used to add a similar idea at the end of a sentence, but "And" fits better for connecting both ideas equally.
10.
I chose an electric car ..... one driven by petrol.
A) Yet.
B) In spite of.
C) Instead of.
D) Therefore.
Show Answer
Explanations:
"Instead of" is the correct answer because it indicates a substitution, showing that the speaker chose an electric car over a petrol-driven one.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
"Yet" suggests contrast but not necessarily substitution. It would be more appropriate if there was a contrasting idea after the sentence.
Option B:
"In spite of" means despite or regardless of, which does not fit the context of choosing one thing over another.
Option C:
"Instead of" correctly indicates substitution, showing that an electric car was chosen instead of a petrol-driven one.
Option D:
"Therefore" suggests a result or conclusion, which is not applicable in this context as there's no stated outcome from the choice made.
11.
I've covered the main events of the year ..... , our team is now one of the best in the world.
A) Despite.
B) To sum up.
C) That's why.
D) In addition.
Show Answer
Explanations:
To sum up is used to conclude a discussion, which fits well with the context of summarizing the main events and achievements of the year. It indicates that what follows is a conclusion or summary of the information provided.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Despite introduces a contrast or exception, which does not fit the context of concluding an achievement.
Option B:
To sum up correctly concludes the statement by summarizing the main points.
Option C:
That's why provides a reason for something, which is not appropriate here as there is no need to explain the reason further after stating the achievement.
Option D:
In addition adds information or supports an idea, but it does not fit well with concluding the main events and achievements of the year.
12.
What is the effect of using linking words in academic writing?
A) They confuse the reader.
B) They reduce the need for references.
C) They strengthen the quality and structure of the work.
D) They make the writing informal.
Show Answer
Explanations:
Linking words, such as conjunctions, transitional phrases, and connectives, are essential in academic writing because they help to create a smooth flow of ideas, enhance the logical structure of arguments, and improve overall readability. By using linking words effectively, writers can ensure that their work is coherent and well-organized.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
They confuse the reader - Incorrect. Linking words are used to clarify relationships between ideas, not to cause confusion.
Option B:
They reduce the need for references - Incorrect. Linking words do not affect the necessity of referencing sources in academic writing.
Option C:
They strengthen the quality and structure of the work - Correct. Linking words help to build a clear, logical progression of ideas, thereby enhancing the overall quality and structure of the text.
Option D:
They make the writing informal - Incorrect. While linking words can vary in formality, their primary function is to improve clarity and coherence rather than alter the tone of the writing.
13.
Which one is not used while contrasting?
A) Never theless.
B) Yet.
C) For.
D) On the other hand.
Show Answer
Explanations:
"Nevertheless" is not typically used for contrasting ideas in writing. It is more often employed to introduce a statement that contrasts with the preceding one but does so less directly than "yet," "on the other hand," or "for." These latter options are specifically designed and commonly used to contrast ideas.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Nevertheless is not typically used for direct contrast in writing.
Option B:
Yet is a linking word often used to introduce contrasting ideas.
Option C:
For can be used to add supporting information, but it's not primarily a contrasting link.
Option D:
On the other hand is explicitly used for presenting contrasts or alternatives.
14.
..... I exercise every day; I can't see myself losing any weight.
A) However.
B) But.
C) On the contrary.
D) Although.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The sentence "I exercise every day; I can't see myself losing any weight." requires a linking word that connects two contrasting ideas: daily exercise and the lack of weight loss. The correct answer,
Option D) Although
, is used to introduce a contrast or exception to the first part of the statement. It indicates that despite exercising every day, there has been no change in weight.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
However - While this can also be used for contrast, "although" better fits when starting with a clause.
Option B:
But - This is less formal and typically used at the beginning of a sentence rather than in the middle.
Option C:
On the contrary - This phrase means the opposite and does not fit the context of a partial contrast.
Option D:
Although - Correctly introduces a clause that contrasts with the first part, indicating despite exercising daily, weight loss is not observed.
15.
The couple had a terrible row ..... theycalled the wedding off.
A) As a result.
B) Thanks.
C) So as not to.
D) Owing to.
Show Answer
Explanations:
"As a result" is the correct answer because it indicates that the wedding was canceled due to the argument, showing a cause-and-effect relationship between the couple's disagreement and their decision.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
As a result. This correctly shows the consequence of the row.
Option B:
Thanks. Irrelevant to the context, does not connect cause and effect.
Option C:
So as not to. Implies avoiding something, which is not the case here.
Option D:
Owing to. While it can be used for causes, "as a result" better fits the context of showing consequence in this sentence.
16.
Which linking word best completes the sentence? 'She was tired, ..... she decided to go to bed early.'
A) So.
B) But.
C) Because.
D) Although.
Show Answer
Explanations:
"So" is the best linking word to complete the sentence because it indicates a result or consequence. The first part of the sentence, "She was tired," sets up a reason, and "she decided to go to bed early" shows the outcome due to that reason.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
So - Correct. Indicates a result following a cause.
Option B:
But - Incorrect. Suggests contrast, not consequence.
Option C:
Because - Incorrect. Introduces the reason, not the result.
Option D:
Although - Incorrect. Indicates a concession or contrast, not a result.
17.
Errol is a good cook; ..... , his wife can only boil eggs.
A) Although.
B) In contrast.
C) Therefore.
D) For example.
Show Answer
Explanations:
In contrast indicates a comparison between two contrasting ideas, which is suitable for the context where Errol being a good cook contrasts with his wife's limited cooking ability of only boiling eggs.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Although introduces a concession or exception, not fitting the contrasting idea.
Option B:
In contrast is correct as it highlights the difference between Errol and his wife's cooking abilities.
Option C:
Therefore suggests a result or conclusion, which does not fit the context of comparison.
Option D:
For example provides an illustration rather than contrasting ideas.
18.
How does 'besides' differ from 'moreover'?
A) 'Besides' is used for contrast; 'moreover' is used for examples.
B) 'Besides' adds information; 'moreover' strengthens an argument.
C) 'Besides' is used in questions; 'moreover' is used in formal writing.
D) 'Besides' is a synonym for 'also'; 'moreover' is a casual term.
Show Answer
Explanations:
'Besides' and 'moreover' are both used to add information, but they serve slightly different purposes in writing.
- 'Besides' is often used to introduce additional supporting details that complement the main point without necessarily strengthening it as much as 'moreover'.
- 'Moreover', on the other hand, is typically employed to enhance or strengthen an argument by providing further evidence or elaboration.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Incorrect. Both 'besides' and 'moreover' can be used for adding information, not just contrast.
Option B:
Correct. This accurately describes the primary difference between the two terms.
Option C:
Incorrect. Neither term is specifically limited to questions or formal writing.
Option D:
Incorrect. 'Besides' and 'moreover' are both formal terms, not casual ones.
19.
Which word CANNOT be used to start a sentence?
A) Because.
B) However.
C) But.
D) None of the above.
Show Answer
Explanations:
"However" and "But" are coordinating conjunctions that can be used to start a sentence, connecting two independent clauses. "Because," on the other hand, is a subordinating conjunction typically used to introduce an adverbial clause of reason.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Because - Correctly starts sentences as a subordinating conjunction.
Option B:
However - Can start sentences as a coordinating conjunction.
Option C:
But - Can start sentences as a coordinating conjunction.
Option D:
Incorrect. "Because" can be used to start a sentence.
20.
What is the best way to combine these two sentences?Mr. Newcott threw the ball at Mr. Mance. Mr. Mance missed and it hit Mrs. Talmo.
A) Mr. Newcott threw the ball at Mr. Mance but Mr. Mance missed and it hit Mrs. Talmo.
B) Mr. Newcott threw the ball at Mr. Mance when Mr. Mance missed and it hit Mrs. Talmo.
C) All the above.
D) None of the above.
Show Answer
Explanations:
Option A correctly combines the two sentences using a coordinating conjunction "but" to link the independent clauses, maintaining proper sentence structure and flow. The use of "but" indicates that despite Mr. Mance's attempt to catch the ball, he missed it.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Correctly uses "but" to connect the two actions, showing a contrast between throwing and missing.
Option B:
Uses "when," which implies simultaneity rather than a sequence of events. This is incorrect because Mr. Mance's action follows Mr. Newcott's action.
<
Option C:
Incorrect, as it includes Option B, which is wrong.
Option D:
Incorrect, as there is a correct option (A).
21.
'' It was cold ..... I shut the window." Complete each sentence with a correct linking word.
A) Nor.
B) And.
C) So.
D) None of the above.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The sentence "It was cold..... I shut the window." indicates a cause-and-effect relationship, where the cold temperature led to the action of shutting the window. The linking word "So" (Option C) is appropriate because it shows that the action of shutting the window was a result of the coldness.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Nor does not fit as there is no negation or additional statement to link.
Option B:
And suggests an addition or sequence, which is not the case here.
Option C:
So is correct because it indicates a consequence of the coldness.
Option D:
None of the above is incorrect since Option C fits well.
22.
The documents will be scrutinized by the police ..... they will be sent back to the relevant authority.
A) After all.
B) Then.
C) Nevertheless.
D) For example.
Show Answer
Explanations:
"Then" is the correct answer because it indicates a sequence of events, showing that the scrutiny by the police will be followed by sending documents back to the relevant authority. This word effectively links two actions in a logical order.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
"After all" suggests a conclusion or finality, which does not fit the context of a sequence of events.
Option B:
"Then" correctly indicates a subsequent action following scrutiny by the police.
Option C:
"Nevertheless" implies a contrast or exception, which is not applicable here as there's no indication of an opposing idea.
Option D:
"For example" introduces an illustration or instance, which does not fit the context of describing a sequence of actions.
23.
There are more people on Earth ..... there is more consumerism.
A) That is why.
B) Due to.
C) Because.
D) None of the above.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The correct answer is
A) That is why.
This linking word indicates a conclusion drawn from the previous statement, suggesting that an increase in population leads to more consumerism as a result.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
"That is why" introduces a conclusion or explanation for what has been stated previously. It connects two ideas by showing causation.
Option B:
"Due to" indicates the cause of something, but it does not directly connect the increase in population with more consumerism as clearly as "That is why." It would be better suited if the sentence were structured differently, such as: "There are more people on Earth due to... there is more consumerism."
Option C:
"Because" also indicates a cause but is less formal and often used in spoken language. In written English, especially for academic purposes, "That is why" sounds more appropriate.
Option D:
"None of the above" is incorrect because option A is correct.
24.
Which category does the linking word 'due to' belong to?
A) To Add More Effects.
B) To Show Effect.
C) To Show Cause.
D) To Conclude.
Show Answer
Explanations:
"Due to" is used to indicate the cause of an event or situation, making it a linking word that shows cause.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Incorrect. "Due to" does not add more effects.
Option B:
Incorrect. "Due to" is not used to show the effect of an event or situation.
Option C:
Correct. "Due to" indicates the cause, aligning with the definition provided in the question.
Option D:
Incorrect. "Due to" does not conclude a statement or argument.
25.
Despite is a linking word that conveys .....
A) Order.
B) Addition.
C) Emphasis.
D) Contrast.
Show Answer
Explanations:
Despite is a linking word that conveys contrast. It is used to introduce a clause that contrasts with the main idea of the sentence, indicating a difference or opposition between two ideas.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Order - Despite does not indicate sequence or order.
Option B:
Addition - Despite is not used to add information sequentially.
Option C:
Emphasis - Despite can be used for emphasis, but its primary function is contrast.
Option D:
Contrast - Correct. Despite introduces a clause that contrasts with the main idea of the sentence.
26.
Taking care of the environment is an essential part of our lives ..... , many people don't seem to be worried.
A) However.
B) Therefore.
C) Although.
D) None of the above.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The sentence "Taking care of the environment is an essential part of our lives....., many people don't seem to be worried." requires a linking word that contrasts the first part with the second part. "However" (Option A) is used to introduce a contrast or contradiction, making it the correct choice.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Introduces a contrast or contradiction between two parts of the sentence.
Option B:
Indicates a result or consequence which does not fit here as there is no indication that taking care of the environment leads to people being worried.
Option C:
Suggests despite something, which might be used in some contexts but doesn't fit well with the given sentence structure and meaning.
Option D:
Indicates none of the above, but since "However" fits correctly, this is not applicable.
27.
I am a vegetarian ..... I don't eat meat.
A) So.
B) Till.
C) Else.
D) When.
Show Answer
Explanations:
"So" is used to show the result of a situation, which fits well in this context where the speaker explains their dietary choice as a consequence of being a vegetarian.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Correct. "So" indicates a result or consequence.
Option B:
Incorrect. "Till" means until, which does not fit the context.
Option C:
Incorrect. "Else" is used to indicate alternatives, which is not applicable here.
Option D:
Incorrect. "When" indicates a time, which is not relevant in this sentence structure.
28.
I went home early ..... I wasn't feeling well that day.
A) Furthermore.
B) Because of.
C) Because.
D) Although.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The sentence "I went home early..... I wasn't feeling well that day." requires a linking word to connect the two clauses logically. The correct answer is
C) Because.
This word introduces a reason for going home early, making the connection clear and grammatically correct.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Furthermore indicates addition or emphasis, not causation.
Option B:
Because of is grammatically correct but less concise than "Because." Both are acceptable, but "Because" is more commonly used in this context.
Option C:
Correctly introduces the reason for going home early.
Option D:
Although suggests contrast or contradiction, which does not fit the sentence structure.
29.
She is poor, ..... she is kind.
A) But.
B) So.
C) For.
D) And.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The sentence "She is poor,
But
she is kind." uses a linking word to contrast two related but opposing ideas. The word "But" indicates that despite the first statement (she being poor), there is an unexpected positive quality (being kind).
Option Analysis:
Option A:
But - Correct. It contrasts her poverty with her kindness.
Option B:
So - Incorrect. "So" would imply a result, not a contrast.
Option C:
For - Incorrect. "For" introduces a reason or explanation, not a contrast.
Option D:
And - Incorrect. "And" connects similar ideas, not contrasting ones.
30.
Which word or phrase CANNOT complete the sentence?
A) Due to.
B) Owing to.
C) Because of.
D) Because.
Show Answer
Explanations:
"Because" is not typically used to introduce a clause that provides the reason for something, unlike "due to," "owing to," and "because of." These linking words are more appropriate when explaining causes in a sentence.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Due to - Correctly introduces a reason.
Option B:
Owing to - Correctly introduces a reason.
Option C:
Because of - Correctly introduces a reason.
Option D:
Because - Incorrectly used as it directly follows the verb without a clause, making it incomplete in this context.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are linking words for writing?
Linking words for writing, also known as transition words or conjunctions, help connect sentences and ideas within a text to improve flow and coherence.
Why are linking words important in writing?
Linking words are crucial as they enhance the readability of texts by guiding the reader through the logical progression of ideas, making the text more cohesive and easier to understand.
How do linking words for contrast differ from those for cause and effect?
Linking words for contrast, such as 'however' or 'on the other hand,' are used to present opposing ideas. Those for cause and effect, like 'therefore' or 'as a result,' show the relationship between reasons and outcomes.
Can you give an example of when to use 'would' versus 'wood' in writing?
In writing, 'would' is used for hypothetical situations or polite requests, while 'wood' (which is not a linking word) refers to the material and should be avoided in this context.
What are some common linking words for writing?
Common linking words include 'and,' 'but,' 'therefore,' and 'however.' These help in connecting ideas, showing contrast, indicating cause and effect, or summarizing points.