Cambridge Grammar of English Hardback with cd-rom a comprehensive Guide

Linking in written and spoken English

335a

Some linking adjuncts are particularly associated with written or spoken styles and

particular positions in those styles. For example, on the contrary is very rare in informal

conversation. In written English it is more common and usually occurs in front (or much

less frequently in mid) position:

He had no private understanding with Mr X. 

On the contrary, he knew very little of him.

On the other hand

occurs frequently in both spoken and written usage. But the concessive

adjunct then again (always in front position) is much more frequent in spoken than in

written language:

[speakers are discussing training in the use of a new computer program; Arrow is a

software supply company]

A: We’ve hopefully got some people from Arrow who might be able to help a bit. 

B: But then again, if you’re interested in computers, er, it’s very easy to learn quickly.

Other linking adjuncts more common in written than in spoken usage include: 

accordingly

furthermore

therefore

as a consequence

in the event

duly

moreover

Other linking adjuncts more common in spoken than in written usage include: 

as I say 

because of that

in the end

what’s more

Û

108 Discourse markers: organising the discourse

594 | Adjuncts

Cambridge Grammar of English

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