Conversational Transition Terms

Used to signal that you are now being serious after saying something funny or light-hearted

All joking aside, we really do need to work harder if we want to finish this project on time.

Used to say that something seems true based on the information or knowledge you currently have

As far as I can tell, the new software update hasn't caused any problems with the system yet.

Used to introduce a result or fact that is different from or surprising compared to what was expected

We thought the trip would be boring, but as it turns out, it was the best vacation we ever had.

Used to share something private or secret that you don't want others to know

Between you and me, I think the boss is going to announce some big changes next week.

Used to introduce a specific example that clearly supports or proves what you just said

Many simple habits can improve your health. Case in point, drinking more water every day can make a big difference.

Used to introduce something surprising, strange, or coincidental

Funny thing is, I was just thinking about calling you when you walked through the door.

Used to emphasize that you are giving your personal opinion, even if nobody directly asked for it

If you ask me, they should have started the project much earlier to avoid all these problems.

Used to say that something happens most of the time or in most situations

More often than not, students who study consistently get better grades than those who cram before tests.

Used before something that is already obvious or that everyone already knows

She practiced the piano for eight hours a day. Needless to say, she became an excellent musician.

Used to say that something is surprising or unexpected

Oddly enough, I ran into my old teacher at the airport in a foreign country.

Used when you change your mind or reconsider a decision you just made

I'll have the chocolate cake. On second thought, maybe I should choose the fruit salad instead.

Used to clarify or emphasize the main idea or reason behind what you are saying

She worked three jobs while studying full time. Point being, she never gave up no matter how hard things got.

Used to say that something happened exactly as expected or predicted

I told him the road was icy, and sure enough, he slipped on the way to his car.

Used to introduce a statement that contrasts with or adds something different to what was just said

The restaurant is quite expensive. That being said, the food quality is absolutely worth the price.

Used to introduce the main point or most important idea of something without all the details

I don't have time to explain everything right now, but the gist is that we need to change our plan immediately.

Used to introduce the most surprising, ironic, or unexpected part of a story or situation

He drove an hour to the store to buy the item on sale, and the kicker is, they were completely sold out.

Used to introduce your personal opinion or point of view about something

The way I see it, we should save more money now instead of spending it all on vacation.

Used to add one final detail, usually the most extreme or surprising part of a situation

He missed his flight, lost his luggage, and to top it off, it rained the entire vacation.

Used to introduce an honest statement, often one that might be surprising or uncomfortable

Truth be told, I didn't really enjoy the party, but I stayed because my friend needed me there.

Used to express something that bothers, surprises, or frustrates you about a situation

What gets me is that he knew about the problem for weeks but never said anything to anyone.

Used to talk about what is most important or fundamental after removing all other details

We can discuss many strategies, but when it comes down to it, hard work and a little of good old-fashioned luck is what truly leads to success.