Conclusive Connectors – Concept, what they are and examples


We explain what conclusive connectors are, their functions and examples in sentences. Also, other types of connectors.

conclusive connectors
Conclusive connectors introduce a conclusion or close an idea.

What are conclusive connectors?

Conclusive connectors or conclusion connectors are a specific type of textual markers or discursive connectors, that is, a type of textual units that we use to link the parts of a text and provide it with a logical connection. These connectors are essential for fluent writing and operate in a similar way to links, but instead of linking parts of a sentence, they do so with portions of the same text.

Now, conclusive connectors differ from other types of connectors in that we allow to establish a conclusion or a summary about what has already been said, either to outline the closing or the end of the text (or one of its parts), to abandon one of the ideas that were being handled, or simply to offer the reader a reflection obtained from the subject.

The conclusive connectors that we most frequently use are: In summary, in summary, In conclusion, definitely, therefore, Finally, in sum, synthesizing, finally, finally, in short, among others.

Examples of conclusive connectors

The following sentences provide an example of the use of conclusive connectors:

  • In sumSo far we have proposed an economic model different from the traditional one.
  • What was exposed by the witness, definitely, demonstrates the circumstantiality of the evidence and contributes to the innocence of the accused.
  • In conclusionDear friends, I thank you very much for your presence here tonight.
  • We would also like, finally, clarify that the position of the company regarding ecological issues has always been and will be correct.
  • The results of this study, In summary, could open the door to future innovations in the field of civil engineering.

Other types of connectors

In addition to the conclusive ones, there are other classifications of connectors in the language, such as:

  • Additive (or summation) connectors. Those who add or add ideas, as in an enumeration or a count. For example: also, in addition, in addition, also, etc.
  • Adversative (or contrast) connectors. Those who introduce an oppositional relationship between two linked ideas, in such a way that the recent elements oppose the previous ones in the text. For example: but, still, nevertheless, on the other hand, at the same time, etc.
  • Cause and effect connectors. Those that, as their name indicates, pose a causal relationship, that is, of origin and consequence, between two or more elements of the text. For example: therefore, consequently, in this way, because of it,
  • Explanatory connectors. Those that allow us to return to what was said, although in another way, in order to make it clearer, either through examples, explanations or reiterations. For example: this is, for example, this means, put another way, in other words, etc.
  • Comparative connectors. Those that introduce a comparison between the linked terms, in order to highlight similarities or, on the contrary, differences. For example: as, contrary, inversely, in the same way, as well as, etc.
  • Conditional connectors. Those that incorporate a relation of probability or possibility (that is, conditional), with respect to the parts of the text, so that if one is fulfilled, the other is also fulfilled. For example: assuming, since, unless, if so, etc.
  • Temporary connectors. Those who establish a chronological sequential relationship in the text, placing what has been said in a prior, subsequent or simultaneous relationship with another reference. For example: at the same time, at the same time, once, back then, etc.
  • Emphatic connectors. Those that allow to emphasize an element of what has been said, that is, to highlight it or draw attention to it. For example: as if that were not enough, without a doubt, what is worse, even more surprisingly, etc.