How to use linking words in English - BBC English Masterclass

Summary

In this Masterclass, Sian from BBC Learning English explores the concept of discourse markers, also known as signposting, which are words and phrases used in conversation to guide the listener. These markers, such as 'you know', 'actually', 'mind you', and 'by the way', help make speech more fluent, connect ideas, and signal changes in topic or emphasis. Sian illustrates their use through a humorous telephone call about a dinner party disaster, explaining each marker's function with real-life examples. Viewers are encouraged to practice these markers for improved fluency in both speaking and writing.

Takeaways

• 😀 Discourse markers are words and phrases used to guide listeners and connect ideas in speech.
• 😀 These signposts help speakers sound more fluent and make conversations easier to follow.
• 😀 Common discourse markers include 'you know', 'actually', 'mind you', 'anyway', and 'by the way'.
• 😀 'You know' signals that the speaker is about to share information that the listener is likely familiar with.
• 😀 'Actually' is used to introduce surprising information or to correct something that was said earlier.
• 😀 'Mind you' is used when the speaker wants to add a contrasting thought or afterthought.
• 😀 'Anyway' is versatile—it can signal a change of topic, return to a previous topic, or indicate the speaker is concluding their point.
• 😀 'As I was saying' is useful when the speaker is about to return to a previous discussion or topic.
• 😀 'Come to think of it' is used when the speaker suddenly remembers something important during the conversation.
• 😀 'Basically' is used to provide a summary or to simplify what has been said.
• 😀 'By the way' is used to change the subject and introduce something that is not directly related to the main topic.

Q & A

What is the main topic of the video script?

The main topic of the video script is about using signposts, also called discourse markers, in spoken language to help direct the listener and improve fluency.

What are discourse markers?

Discourse markers are words and phrases used in speech to help connect ideas, guide the listener through the conversation, and indicate transitions or changes in topic.

Why are discourse markers important in conversations?

Discourse markers are important because they help speakers sound more fluent, aid in the flow of conversation, and help listeners understand the structure and direction of the speaker's message.

Can you give an example of a discourse marker that indicates a surprising piece of information?

An example of a discourse marker that indicates a surprising piece of information is 'actually'. For example, 'Actually, it was a complete disaster.'

What does the discourse marker 'mind you' signify in a conversation?

'Mind you' is used to present an afterthought or to add something that contrasts with what was previously said. For example, 'People arrived when I was still cooking. Mind you, I did say 'turn up when you want.'

What is the purpose of 'as I was saying' as a discourse marker?

'As I was saying' is used to return to a previous topic in the conversation. It helps the speaker steer the discussion back to a point they had made earlier.

What does the phrase 'come to think of it' mean in the context of a conversation?

'Come to think of it' is used when the speaker remembers or realizes something they hadn't initially mentioned. It signals that new information has just come to mind.

How does 'basically' function in a conversation?

'Basically' is used to summarize or simplify what is being said. It gives the listener a concise version of the speaker's main point or conclusion.

What is the function of the discourse marker 'by the way'?

'By the way' is used to introduce a new topic or piece of information that is unrelated to the main subject of the conversation.

Why is it useful to practice discourse markers, according to the script?

Practicing discourse markers is useful because it helps speakers sound more natural and fluent, making it easier to understand and participate in native speaker conversations.