5.2 Using adverbs in compound sentences
The two independent clauses that form a compound sentence are often linked through an adverb. You met most of these adverbs in Week 5 when you looked at ways to link ideas. The most common of these adverbs are listed in the following table.
Adding emphasis | Giving an example | Adding a consequence | Adding a contrasting idea | Adding a similar idea |
indeed in fact | for example for instance | therefore consequently hence thus as a result | however conversely on the other hand instead on the contrary nevertheless | similarly likewise |
Compound sentences linked through an adverb are structured as follows:
First independent clause | Semi-colon | Adverb | Comma | Second independent clause |
Researchers have studied AIDS for many years | ; | however | , | a vaccine has not been found yet. |
Activity 10
The following sets of sentences have been incorrectly or unclearly organised. Rewrite them including the adverb in the brackets and making correct use of punctuation.
Example:
Staff must be able to observe the patients this has the effect of reducing patients’ privacy and dignity. (however)
Answer
Staff must be able to observe the patients; however, this has the effect of reducing patients’ privacy and dignity.
- Migration is often seen as a large-scale or impersonal issue. It is an intense personal experience which transforms the individual lives of those who move. (however)
Answer
- Migration is often seen as a large-scale or impersonal issue; however, it is an intense personal experience which transforms the individual lives of those who move.
- Global warming causes changes in ecosystems many animal populations will dwindle or die out. (consequently)
Answer
- Global warming causes changes in ecosystems; consequently, many animal populations will dwindle or die out.
- Technology includes social innovations, a book can be thought of as a technology for sharing ideas. (for example)
Answer
- Technology includes social innovations; for example, a book can be thought of as a technology for sharing ideas.
- All businesses must be aware of the environments in which they operate, they must identify factors that may affect them. (in particular)
Answer
- All businesses must be aware of the environments in which they operate; in particular, they must identify factors that may affect them.
- At Cedar Court Nursing Home, rights to privacy and dignity are totally ignored by staff; residents are treated as objects of care. (indeed)
Answer
- At Cedar Court Nursing Home, rights to privacy and dignity are totally ignored by staff; indeed, residents are treated as objects of care.