Discourse and Linking Phrases: Assimilate various linking phrases into your readings and writings to improve the flow of your discourse.
In order to improve the flow and coherence of your Dutch writing and speaking, it is essential to understand and utilize linking phrases. Linking phrases help to create logical connections between different parts of your discourse, allowing for smoother transitions and clearer communication.
1. Adding Information:
When you want to introduce additional information, use these phrases:
daarnaast
- moreoverbovendien
- furthermoreook
- alsodaarbij
- in additionverder
- moreover
Example:
- Ik houd van sport.
Daarnaast
lees ik graag boeken.
Translation:
- I enjoy sports.
Moreover
, I also love reading books.
2. Contrasting Ideas:
To introduce a contrasting idea or provide an alternative viewpoint, consider using these phrases:
maar
- butechter
- howevertoch
- still/yetdaarentegen
- on the other handintegendeel
- on the contrary
Example:
- Hij is slim,
maar
lui.
Translation:
- He is smart,
but
lazy.
3. Giving Examples:
When you want to provide examples to support or illustrate your point, use these phrases:
bijvoorbeeld
- for examplezo
- such aster illustratie
- by way of illustrationneem nou
- take for example
Example:
- Er zijn veel sporten,
bijvoorbeeld
voetbal, tennis en basketbal.
Translation:
- There are many sports,
for example
soccer, tennis, and basketball.
4. Sequencing Ideas:
When discussing a sequence of events or ideas, these phrases can be helpful:
ten eerste
- firstlyten tweede
- secondlyvervolgens
- nextdaarna
- thenten slotte
- finally
Example:
Ten eerste
doe je de boodschappen,vervolgens
kook je het avondeten, enten slotte
eet je het op.
Translation:
Firstly
, you do the groceries,then
you cook dinner, andfinally
you eat it.
5. Concluding:
To wrap up your thoughts or conclude a discussion, consider using these phrases:
kortom
- in shortconcluderend
- in conclusionalles bij elkaar genomen
- all things consideredsamenvattend
- to summarizetot slot
- finally
Example:
Samenvattend
kunnen we stellen dat het belangrijk is om regelmatig te sporten.
Translation:
To summarize
, we can state that it's important to exercise regularly.
Remember, using linking phrases appropriately can greatly enhance the coherence and flow of your Dutch discourse. Practice incorporating these phrases into your writing and speaking to improve your language skills and express your ideas more effectively.
Created: 12/21/2023 | Updated: 5/5/2025