Which category includes words like 'so', 'and', 'but', and 'or' that connect parts of discourse?

Which category includes words like 'so', 'and', 'but', and 'or' that connect parts of discourse?

• A. Discourse connectives
• B. Discourse markers
• C. Conjunctions
• D. Prepositions

Answer: (A)

Discourse connectives are words that link one part of a text to another, showing how ideas relate across sentences or clauses. Words like so, and, but, or illustrate this by signaling relationships such as consequence (so), addition (and), contrast (but), or alternative (or). They help the reader follow the flow of thought from one discourse unit to the next, creating coherence. Conjunctions do connect words or phrases within a single sentence, but the prompt focuses on linking larger chunks of discourse, which is why discourse connectives are the best fit. Discourse markers primarily signal stance or transitions (like well, actually, anyway) and don’t always establish the specific logical relation between discourse units. Prepositions show relations within clauses (like spatial or temporal relations) rather than linking separate parts of discourse.

Discourse connectives are words that link one part of a text to another, showing how ideas relate across sentences or clauses. Words like so, and, but, or illustrate this by signaling relationships such as consequence (so), addition (and), contrast (but), or alternative (or). They help the reader follow the flow of thought from one discourse unit to the next, creating coherence.

Conjunctions do connect words or phrases within a single sentence, but the prompt focuses on linking larger chunks of discourse, which is why discourse connectives are the best fit. Discourse markers primarily signal stance or transitions (like well, actually, anyway) and don’t always establish the specific logical relation between discourse units. Prepositions show relations within clauses (like spatial or temporal relations) rather than linking separate parts of discourse.