Comprehensive List of Relationship Words

There are three types of relationship words

1. Coordinating conjunctions (also called FANBOYS)
2. Subordinating conjunctions (also called trigger or signal words)
3. Transitions

Each group of words represents a different part of speech; thus, you may not use them interchangeably. Note the clause patterns below.

IC, fanboys IC.
IC DC.
DC, IC.
IC; trans word, IC.

Many of the words in each category may express the same relationship, but they function as different parts of speech in the sentence. Notice how the punctuation changes.

I want to go to the concert, but I have to work instead. (IC, but IC.)

Although I want to go to the concert, I have to work instead. (DC, IC)

I want to go to the concert; however, I have to work instead. (IC; however, IC)

Each type of relationship and the words that express that relationship are listed below. If the column is blank, it means there are no appropriate words for that entry. Click on a link below if you wish to jump directly to a specific group of relationhip words.

Cause
Causes make something happen.

FANBOYS Trigger Words Transitions

For Because
Since

Effect
Effects are the results or outcomes of something having happened.

FANBOYS Trigger Words Transitions

So As a result
Therefore
Consequently
Thus
Hence

Contrast
Points out the difference between or among things.

FANBOYS Trigger Words Transitions

But
Yet Although
Even though
Though However
On the contrary
Instead
On the other hand
Nevertheless
Otherwise
Nonetheless

Comparison
Show how things are similar to one another.

FANBOYS Trigger Words Transitions

Than
As Similarly
Likewise
Both
In the same manner
In comparison
Accordingly

Time
Shows the order in which things happen.

FANBOYS Trigger Words Transitions

When (whenever)
While
After
Before
Where (wherever) First, next, finally
First, second, third
Immediately
Eventually
Meanwhile
Then
Soon
Often

Example
Provides an illustration or a specific clarification of the point just made.

FANBOYS Trigger Words Transitions

For example
For instance
To illustrate
Such as
Specifically
Namely

Addition
The information that follows is equally important to the information that comes before it. Often used in a list where the order is not important. No other relationship should apply if you use addition.

FANBOYS Trigger Words Transitions

In addition
Additionally
Also
Another
Moreover
Furthermore
Further

Condition
Something that is conditional requires that specific things happen in order for things to turn out a certain way.

FANBOYS Trigger Words Transitions

If
Unless

Last Modified: 6/23/2008