Italian grammar · Upper intermediate (B2)
Connectors: tuttavia, eppure, sebbene, pertanto
The words that link ideas in Italian arguments and formal writing, what they mean, their register, and which ones need the congiuntivo.
Contrast and concession
and are the everyday words for “but”. (however) is more careful and common in writing. (and yet) introduces something surprising. (instead, on the other hand) compares two things.
For “although”, , and take the congiuntivo, while takes the indicative. Before a noun, means “despite”: . + gerund also concedes: (although I knew).
| Connector | English | Followed by |
|---|---|---|
| but | indicative | |
| however | indicative | |
| and yet | indicative | |
| even though, even if | indicative | |
| although | congiuntivo | |
| although; despite | congiuntivo; a noun |
Cause and result
(because) is the everyday word. goes at the start of the sentence. and (since, as) are a little more formal. Before a noun, use (because of) or (thanks to).
For a result, use or (so) in speech, and , or in more formal language.
- Dato che piove, restiamo a casa.As it's raining, we're staying at home.
- Il volo è stato cancellato. Pertanto chiedo il rimborso.The flight was cancelled. I therefore request a refund.
Structuring an argument
To list points, use or (first of all), (what's more, furthermore) and (finally). (on the other hand) brings in the other side. (in short) and (in conclusion) sum up.
In formal writing, (regarding) introduces the topic, and (if, should) + congiuntivo introduces a possible condition: , …
| Connector | English | Register |
|---|---|---|
| first of all | neutral | |
| what's more, furthermore | neutral, written | |
| on the other hand | neutral | |
| in short, well | spoken | |
| therefore | formal | |
| regarding | formal |