Connectors

Discourse markers and the subjunctive mood

Introduction

Discourse markers organize speech and writing at a higher level: introducing topics (regarding, as for), sequencing (first, finally), exemplifying (namely, for instance), and summarizing (in short, to sum up).

The subjunctive mood—using the base verb form after suggest, demand, insist—is a hallmark of formal English. "I suggest that he leave" sounds more sophisticated than "I suggest that he leaves."

These advanced features mark truly proficient English usage.

Themes

All Grammar (Basic) in This Chapter (30)

• Discourse Markers Words and phrases that organize and signal discourse structure
• Subjunctive Mood Special verb form for wishes, demands, suggestions, and hypotheticals
• Concession Clauses Advanced ways to express 'although' and contrast
• Participle Clauses Using -ing and -ed forms to connect clauses concisely
• Linking Adverbials Transitional words that connect ideas between sentences
• Fixed Grammatical Expressions Idiomatic phrases with set grammatical patterns
• Hedging and Vague Language Softening statements and being deliberately vague
• Emphatic Particles and Adverbs Words that add emphasis or attitude
• inasmuch as / insofar as Expressing extent or degree of truth
• be that as it may / that said Acknowledging a point while continuing
• Mandative Subjunctive Base verb after verbs of demand, suggestion, necessity
• Formulaic Subjunctive Fixed expressions using subjunctive
• Introducing Topics: As for, Regarding Discourse markers for introducing topics
• Summarizing: In short, To sum up Discourse markers for concluding and summarizing
• Exemplifying: Namely, For instance Discourse markers for giving examples
• Much as / However much Expressing concession about degree or extent
• albeit / notwithstanding Formal concessive expressions
• lest (+ subjunctive) Formal expression meaning 'in case' or 'so that...not'
• Be that as it may Conceding a point while dismissing its importance
• That said / Having said that Introducing a contrasting or qualifying point
• Granted (that) Accepting a point as true before countering
• Much as / Much though Strong concession despite personal feelings
• However + adjective/adverb Expressing 'no matter how'
• Hedging with tend to / appear to / seem to Softening statements to avoid absolute claims
• Vague language (sort of, kind of, stuff, thing) Deliberately imprecise expressions
• Evidential stance markers Showing the source or certainty of information
• seeing (that) / given (that) Formal expressions for reason/cause
• in order to / so as to Formal purpose expressions
• Textual organizers (firstly, moreover, finally) Words that structure discourse
• Cohesive reference (the former, the latter, such) Words that refer back to previous content