Useful Transitions for Expressing Cause and Effect

When we talk about events, we often want to explain why something happened (the cause) or what happened next (the effect).

1. Expressing Cause: “Why” Something Happened

To show the reason for something, we use because of and as a result of.

The Rule for Causes:

Both of these phrases must be followed by a noun phrase (a noun or a short phrase without a verb action), not a full sentence.

You can build your sentences in two different ways:

• Option A (Transition at the start): Put the cause first to emphasize it. You must use a comma after the cause phrase.
  • Example: Because of the extreme weather conditions, all flights have been canceled.
  • Example: As a result of global warming, many regions are experiencing heavier rainfall.
• Option B (Transition in the middle): Put the result first, followed by the cause. You do not need a comma here.
  • Example: All flights have been canceled because of the extreme weather conditions.
  • Example: Many regions are experiencing heavier rainfall as a result of global warming.

2. Expressing Effect: “What Happens Next”

When you want to show the result or impact of an action, use therefore, consequently, or as a result. They all mean “so” or “for this reason,” but they sound much more professional and academic.

The Rule for Effects:

Unlike the cause words above, these transitions connect two complete sentences (Subject + Verb).

Here are the two common ways to write them:

• Option A (Two separate sentences): Write the first sentence, put a period, start the next sentence with your transition word, and put a comma right after it.
  • Example: All flights have been cancelled. Therefore, passengers must rebook their flights.
  • Example: In the 2009 economic recession many companies laid off workers. As a result, the unemployment rate increased dramatically.
• Option B (Using a semicolon): If the two ideas are very closely linked, you can combine them into one long sentence using a semicolon (;) before the transition word and a comma after it.
  • Example: Manufacturers have been using GMO foods more and more; consequently, the cases of food allergies have been increasing.

Quick Summary Checklist for B1 Learners:

• Because of / As a result of + Noun (e.g., because of the rain).
• Therefore / Consequently / As a result + Comma + Full Sentence (e.g., Therefore, we stayed inside).