What is the best definition of a 'linking word'?

Question

BlackTom AI · Accepted Answer

Question restated: What is the best definition of a 'linking word'?

Option a: 'Words or phrases which are in the topic sentences.' This definition is not accurate because linking words are connectors that show relationships between ideas, not merely items found in topic sentences. Topic sentences may contain linking words, but their presence there is not what defines a linking word.

Option b: 'Words which join two or more sets of information, ideas or evidence' This captures the core function of linking words: they connect different pieces of information, help indicate relationships (such as contrast, addition, cause), and link ideas or evidence within a text. This aligns with the general linguistic and writing conventions about linking elements.

Option c: 'Words or phrases which are the most important ingredients.' This phrasing is vague and metaphorical; linking words are not about being the 'most important ingredients' of a sentence. They serve a grammatical or discourse function, not an abstract notion of importance or recipe-like ingredients.

Further analysis across options:
- option a focuses on location (topic sentences) rather than function, which misses the defining role of linking words as connectors.
- option b emphasizes the connective role across information, ideas, or evidence, which is the key purpose of linking words in coherence and cohesion.
- option c mischaracterizes linking words as a qualitative measure (importance) rather than a syntactic/semantic tool used to link content.

In summary, the concept that best matches the role of linking words is their function as connectors between different information or ideas, rather than merely being present in topic sentences or being described as 'ingredients.'

MUF0011 English Unit 1 - Semester 1, 2025 8.3 Academic Literacy Quiz

What is the best definition of a 'linking word'?

View Explanation

Log in for full answers

Similar Questions

位置28的问题 Riding a bicycle without a helmet can be dangerous. _______________, my nephew had to get stitches in his scalp when he fell off his bike and wasn't wearing a helmet. AlsoFor exampleHoweverMoreover

位置25的问题 My family has decided to visit this weekend; ___________, I will not be going to the beach with you tomorrow. thereforehoweverlaterfor example

What is the best definition of a 'linking word'?

Select the two linkers from the list below that are NOT contrast linkers.

Match each term in the left column with its "joining word" name or example in the right column. Use each right column answer once only. 1: conclusion 2: for 3: Previously, 4: whereas 5: To illustrate this,

In a consumer society, many adults channel creativity into buying things

Economic stress and unpredictable times have resulted in a booming industry for self-help products

People born without creativity never can develop it

More Practical Tools for Students Powered by AI Study Helper

Homework AI Solver

Stylized AI Paper Writer

Plagiarism Checker Assistant

Citation AI Academic Writing Tool

In-Class Translation Assistant

AI Note Generator

AI Quiz Answers

Past Exam Questions from University Test Bank

Smart Practice Assistant

Adaptive Practice

Making Your Study Simpler