Discourse markers are (words like 'however', 'although' and 'nevertheless') more commonly referred to as 'linking words' and 'linking phrases', or 'sentence connectors'. They may be described as the 'glue' that binds together a piece of writing, make the different parts of the text 'stick together'. They are used less frequently in speech, unless the speech is very formal.

Type of relationship in using Discourse Markers

1. Adding something

Examples are:

Moreover; In addition; Additionally; Further; Further to this; Also; Besides; What is more.

2. Making a contrast between two separate things, people, ideas, etc.

Examples are:

However; On the other hand; In contrast; Yet.

3. Making an unexpected contrast (concession)

Examples are:

Although; Even though; Despite the fact that; In spite of the fact that; Regardless of the fact that.

4. Saying why something is the case

Examples are:

Because; Since; As; Insofar as.

5. Saying what the result of something is

Examples are:

Therefore; consequently; In consequence; As a result; Accordingly; Hence; Thus; For this reason; Because of this.

6. Expressing a condition

 Examples are:

If; In the event of; As long as...; So long as...; Provided that...; Assuming that...; Given that....

7. Making what you say stronger

Examples:

On the contrary; As a matter of fact; In fact; Indeed.