Discourse Markers

Article excerpt · target grammar marked

In 2023, global merchandise trade fell by roughly 5% in dollar terms. Nevertheless, container volumes barely changed. Furthermore, the rise of e-commerce has transformed small-scale importing.

Grammar Reference · Discourse Markers

Contrast connector

Use nevertheless or however to introduce a point that surprises after what came before. Trade fell in value; nevertheless, volumes held steady.

Addition connector

Use furthermore or moreover to add a point of equal or greater weight. Tariffs rerouted supply chains; furthermore, Mexico overtook China.

Result connector

Use as a result or therefore to show a consequence. Platforms handle paperwork automatically; as a result, small firms can export easily.

Punctuation rule

Always place a comma after a sentence-opening connector. Nevertheless, the volumes held up. Missing this comma is the most common written error.

01Exercise 1 — Form · Write the Correct Form

Discourse Markers

1., tariffs rarely destroy trade flows — they simply reroute them.

2.Mexico overtook China as the top US exporter in 2023; , the USMCA played a decisive role.

3.Commodity prices fell sharply; , the headline trade figure shrank even as volumes held.

4.Nearshoring cuts delivery times; , it raises unit production costs for most manufacturers.

5.Apple moved assembly to India; , many European firms relocated suppliers closer to home.

6.Currency risk is significant; , payment terms can make or break a cross-border contract.

02Exercise 2 — Transform

rewrite with the new structure

1.Trade fell in value. Volumes barely changed.

2.Platforms handle customs paperwork. Small firms can now export easily.

3.Nearshoring reduces transit risk. It raises unit costs.

4.Mexico overtook China. The USMCA agreement was decisive.

5.Tariffs were imposed on Chinese steel. Imports arrived from South Korea instead.

03Exercise 3 — About You

in your notebook

Personalise: complete five sentences about yourself using the target grammar.

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