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Acedmi

Level 4 · Expert · Band 7.5+

Linking and cohesion: IELTS vocabulary

Connect your ideas smoothly and logically.

10 words

neverthelesslinker/nev-er-the-LESS/

even so; used before a point that seems to contradict the last

The evidence is limited; nevertheless, the findings deserve attention.

Collocation: but nevertheless important · Similar: nonetheless, even so

whereaslinker/wair-AZ/

used to compare two facts that are different

Some students thrive in groups, whereas others prefer to work alone.

Collocation: whereas others · Similar: while

consequentlylinker/KON-si-kwent-lee/

as a result of what has just been mentioned

Funding was cut sharply; consequently, several rural libraries had to close.

Collocation: and consequently · Similar: as a result, therefore

moreoverlinker/mor-OH-ver/

used to add a further, stronger point

The plan is expensive; moreover, it would take decades to complete.

Collocation: moreover, it is · Similar: furthermore, in addition

notwithstandinglinker/not-with-STAND-ing/

a formal word used before a noun, meaning 'in spite of'

notwithstanding the high cost, the scheme was considered a success.

Collocation: notwithstanding these concerns · Similar: despite, in spite of

therebylinker/thair-BY/

by doing this, which causes a stated result

The council cut bus fares, thereby encouraging more people to leave their cars.

Collocation: thereby reducing costs · Similar: in so doing, as a result

namelylinker/NAYM-lee/

used to introduce exact details of what was just mentioned

Two factors explain the trend, namely cost and convenience.

Collocation: two reasons, namely · Similar: specifically, that is

converselylinker/kon-VERS-lee/

introducing the opposite situation or reverse relationship

Higher prices reduce demand; conversely, lower prices tend to increase it.

Collocation: and conversely · Similar: by contrast, on the other hand

provided thatlinker/pro-VY-did that/

only if a certain condition is met

Remote work can be productive provided that staff have clear goals.

Collocation: provided that conditions are met · Similar: as long as, on condition that

albeitlinker/awl-BEE-it/

although; used before a short phrase rather than a clause

The economy is growing, albeit at a slower rate than expected.

Collocation: albeit slowly · Similar: although, though

Grammar check

Choose the right option, then open the answer.

  1. 1. ___ the evidence is limited, the conclusions remain plausible.

    Despite · Although · However · In spite of

    Show answer

    Although: 'Although' introduces a full clause. 'Despite' and 'in spite of' need a noun or -ing form.

  2. 2. The scheme failed, ___ was largely due to poor planning.

    which · that · what · it

    Show answer

    which: Use 'which' after a comma to refer back to a whole idea. 'That' cannot follow a comma here.

  3. 3. What surprised researchers ___ the speed of the change.

    were · being · was · have been

    Show answer

    was: In a 'What...' cleft sentence, the 'what' clause acts as a singular subject, so use 'was'.

  4. 4. Prices rose sharply; ___, wages stayed flat.

    however · although · despite · whereas

    Show answer

    however: After a semicolon, 'however' links two complete sentences. The others cannot be followed by a comma like this.

  5. 5. In addition to ___ costs, the plan improves safety.

    reduce · reduced · be reduced · reducing

    Show answer

    reducing: In 'in addition to', 'to' is a preposition, so it is followed by a noun or an -ing form.

Use the words: speaking questions

  • Why do some people prefer working alone, whereas others need a team?
  • What are the main consequences of cities growing so quickly?
  • Should public transport be free, provided that taxes cover the cost?

Answer them out loud with Dodo in the app for a band and better versions of your answers.