Summary of "Writing: Transitions – THEREFORE, THUS, CONSEQUENTLY"
Summary of the Video: “Writing: transitions – therefore, thus, consequently“
Main Ideas and Concepts
The video focuses on the use of transition words that express logical conclusions or consequences in writing, especially essays. The key transition words discussed are:
- therefore
- thus
- consequently
- so
- then
- hence
- as a result
These words serve as transitions, acting like bridges connecting two ideas—specifically linking a cause or premise to a conclusion or consequence. Understanding the subtle differences between these words helps improve writing clarity and style, particularly in formal contexts like IELTS or TOEFL essays.
Detailed Explanation and Guidelines
1. What is a Transition?
- A transition connects two ideas logically.
- In this context, transitions link a premise or situation with its conclusion or consequence (result).
2. Key Transition Words and Their Nuances
-
- Indicates a conclusion drawn from a premise.
- More formal and mathematical in tone.
- Example: “I think, therefore I am.”
- Often starts a new sentence.
- Best suited for formal writing; avoid casual use.
-
- Means “result.”
- Indicates the result of the immediately preceding argument.
- Typically used without commas.
- Slightly more formal and less common in casual speech.
- Can be used mid-sentence.
- Can also mean “like this” or “like that” in some older or formal contexts.
-
- Means “as a consequence.”
- Similar to “thus” but emphasizes the consequence aspect.
- Works well after semicolons.
- Formal tone.
-
So
- Casual and informal.
- Used to show consequence or result in everyday speech or writing.
- Can be used mid-sentence with a comma.
- Should be used sparingly in formal essays, especially if other transitions have been used.
- Has multiple uses (e.g., intensifier in “so demanding”), so context matters.
-
Then
- Indicates consequence or result, often in casual or spoken English.
- Different from its use as a time-sequence word.
- Example: “It’s too difficult.” “Then practice more.”
-
Hence
-
As a result
- Formal phrase indicating consequence.
- Can be used at the beginning of a sentence.
- Slightly too formal for casual contexts.
3. Usage Tips
- Always ensure the transition relates directly to the previous idea or sentence.
- Use commas to control the pace and emphasis when placing transitions mid-sentence.
- Avoid overusing one transition; vary your language for better style.
- Use “so” for casual or less formal writing, but be careful with its multiple meanings.
- Avoid “hence” unless you are confident in its correct use.
- You can combine transitions in a paragraph or between sentences to show complex cause-effect relationships.
- Example: “The job was too demanding, so many people quit. consequently, the company hired new employees.”
4. Examples Provided
-
Simple:
- “I’m cold. therefore, I’ll put on a coat.” (formal)
- “I’m cold, so I’ll put on a coat.” (casual)
-
Formal/business:
- “Sales shrank, and competition increased. therefore, the company decided to invest more in R&D.”
- Variations using “consequently” and “thus” in similar contexts.
-
Using semicolons:
- “It was too expensive; consequently, they decided to do something else.”
-
Mixing transitions:
- “The job was too demanding, so many people quit. consequently, the company hired new employees.”
5. Additional Notes
- “thus” can sometimes mean “like this,” especially in formal or technical writing.
- “Then” can be used in spoken or casual advice contexts.
- The video encourages practicing these transitions through quizzes and exercises available on www.engvid.com.
Speakers/Sources
- Adam (Instructor from www.engvid.com)
Summary
This lesson clarifies the use of several transition words that indicate cause, consequence, or conclusion in writing. It explains their subtle differences, appropriate contexts, formality levels, punctuation rules, and provides examples to help learners use them correctly and effectively.
Category
Educational
