English - Lesson 89 of 139: Transitions

Anyway, ...

change the topic in a natural, informal way

Meaning: Change the topic in a natural, informal way.

When to use: Use when you want to move the conversation on or return to another topic.

Tip: Using it to start a sentence that needs more explanation; pair it with a clear next idea.

Anyway, let's finish this meeting.

Anyway, what about weekend plans?

By the way, ...

introduce a related side topic

Meaning: Introduce a related side topic.

When to use: Use to add a small question or extra information that is related but not central.

By the way, did you see Lisa's email?

By the way, are you free Friday?

As I was saying, ...

return to an earlier topic after an interruption

Meaning: Return to an earlier topic after an interruption.

When to use: Use when you resume speaking after being interrupted or distracted.

As I was saying, the deadline is next Tuesday.

As I was saying, we need more volunteers.

On the other hand, ...

present a contrasting point

Meaning: Present a contrasting point.

When to use: Use to show another side of the argument or a contrast.

On the other hand, that plan could be expensive.

On the other hand, we might get better results.

At the same time, ...

add a different point that is also true

Meaning: Add a different point that is also true.

When to use: Use to balance two truths or add nuance without strong contrast.

At the same time, I understand your concern.

At the same time, we need to finish on schedule.

In that case, ...

introduce a result or decision based on the situation

Meaning: Introduce a result or decision based on the situation.

When to use: Use when you make a logical reaction to new information.

Tip: Don't use it when the situation isn't clearly described; it needs a clear condition before it.

In that case, let's postpone the meeting.

In that case, you should call them now.

The thing is, ...

introduce the main reason or key problem

Meaning: Introduce the main reason or key problem.

When to use: Use when you want to explain the main issue or a key reason.

The thing is, we don't have the budget.

The thing is, I forgot to send the file.

So,

Signal a result, conclusion, or next step in conversation.

Meaning: Signal a result, conclusion, or next step.

When to use: Use when summarizing or moving to the next action in conversation.

So, I'll email you the notes.

So, we agree to meet next week.

First of all, ...

Introduce the first or most important point in a sequence.

Meaning: Introduce the first or most important point in a sequence.

When to use: Use when you want to list points or start an explanation.

First of all, check the schedule.

First of all, thank you for coming.

For example, ...

Introduce an example to support or explain an idea.

Meaning: Introduce an example to support or explain an idea.

When to use: Use to give a concrete example that clarifies your idea.

For example, you can try the mobile app.

For example, last year we saved time with this method.

In fact, ...

Add information that strengthens, corrects, or makes a point more exact.

Meaning: Add information that strengthens, corrects, or makes a point more exact.

When to use: Use to emphasize a point or correct an earlier idea.

In fact, I checked the numbers this morning.

In fact, the deadline was earlier than we thought.

Actually, ...

Gently correct, clarify, or shift from what was just said.

Meaning: Gently correct, clarify, or shift from what was just said.

When to use: Use to offer a correction or gentle clarification in conversation.

Actually, I already finished that report.

Actually, it's closer to three o'clock.

English - Transitions

1. Reading + Listening Practice

2. Conversational Listening Practice

3. Guided Practice

Which phrase introduces a contrasting point?

Which phrase do you use to return to an earlier topic after an interruption?

Which phrase signals a result or next step?

Which phrase introduces a decision based on new information?

I forgot my umbrella, in that case we'll get wet.

By the way, I left my keys at work. Can you bring them?

We could go for a walk. On the other hand, it might rain later.

Match the core phrases

Match the extra phrases

4. Speaking Practice