영어 연결어 마스터: 한국인이 자주 틀리는 연결어 실수
한국어 사고방식으로 영어 연결어를 직역하면 어색하거나 틀리는 경우가 많습니다.
Category: 접속사/연결어 (Connectors)
Why Korean Speakers Struggle with English Connectors
Korean and English handle logical connections in fundamentally different ways, and this mismatch is the root cause of most connector errors Korean speakers make. In Korean, particles such as -jimann (-지만), -myeonseo (-면서), and -euroso (-으로서) attach directly to verbs and adjectives, weaving clauses together without any punctuation decisions. The sentence simply flows from one idea to the next. English, however, draws a sharp line between coordinating conjunctions (and, but, or, so), subordinating conjunctions (because, although, while, if), and conjunctive adverbs (however, therefore, moreover, nevertheless). Each category obeys its own punctuation rules, and mixing them up produces errors that native speakers notice immediately. Consider the Korean sentence '비가 왔지만 우리는 나갔다.' The connector -jimann sits inside the verb ending, so there is no need for a period, semicolon, or even a comma. A Korean learner naturally transfers this pattern to English and writes 'It was raining, however we went out' — a classic comma splice. The learner is not careless; they are applying a perfectly valid Korean rule to English, where it does not work. Understanding this structural gap is the first step. Once you see that English connectors belong to distinct grammatical families, each with its own punctuation contract, the rules stop feeling arbitrary and start making sense. This post walks through the five most common error types, gives you a formality chart you can reference any time you write, and finishes with a practice quiz so you can test yourself.
Error Type 1: The Comma Splice — The Most Frequent Mistake
A comma splice occurs when a writer joins two independent clauses with only a comma and a conjunctive adverb, treating words like however, therefore, and moreover as if they were coordinating conjunctions like but or so. This is by far the most common connector error among Korean speakers, and it appears in emails, essays, and even professional reports. Here is the pattern that causes trouble. The writer thinks: 'I need to contrast two ideas, so I will use however.' They then write: 'It was late, however, we kept working.' The sentence feels natural because in Korean, inserting 그러나 (however) between two clauses with a comma is perfectly grammatical. But in English, however is not a conjunction — it is a conjunctive adverb, and it does not have the grammatical power to join two independent clauses. You must close the first clause with a period or a semicolon before introducing however. Correct versions: • It was late. However, we kept working. (period) • It was late; however, we kept working. (semicolon) The semicolon option signals that the two ideas are closely related, while the period creates a cleaner break. Both are correct. What is never correct is a bare comma. This rule applies to all conjunctive adverbs without exception: therefore, moreover, furthermore, consequently, meanwhile, nonetheless, nevertheless, in addition, and as a result. Memorize this list, and every time you reach for one of these words, ask yourself: 'Did I close the previous clause with a period or semicolon?' If the answer is no, fix it before moving on.
Error Type 2: Doubling Up — Using a Conjunction and a Conjunctive Adverb Together
This error is sometimes called redundant linking, and it happens when a writer uses both a subordinating conjunction and a conjunctive adverb to express the same logical relationship. The result is a sentence that says the same thing twice, which sounds clumsy and is grammatically incorrect in formal writing. Common examples: • 'Although he studied hard, nevertheless he failed the exam.' • 'Because it was raining, therefore we stayed indoors.' • 'But however, I still disagree with you.' In each case, the writer has paired two words that serve the same function. Although already signals concession, so adding nevertheless is redundant. Because already signals cause, so therefore is unnecessary. But already signals contrast, so however is a duplicate. The fix is simple: choose one or the other, never both. • 'Although he studied hard, he failed the exam.' OR 'He studied hard. Nevertheless, he failed the exam.' • 'Because it was raining, we stayed indoors.' OR 'It was raining. Therefore, we stayed indoors.' • 'But I still disagree.' OR 'However, I still disagree.' Why do Korean speakers fall into this trap? In Korean, stacking connectors is sometimes acceptable for emphasis: '비록 어렵지만 그래도 하겠다' combines 비록 (although), -지만 (but), and 그래도 (still) in one sentence. Korean tolerates this layering; English does not. When you catch yourself using two linking words for one logical turn, delete the weaker one and keep the sentence lean.
Error Type 3: Missing the Comma After a Conjunctive Adverb
Even after learners master the period-or-semicolon rule, many forget the comma that must follow a conjunctive adverb at the start of a sentence. This is a smaller error than a comma splice, but it is still noticeable in formal writing and can cost you points on exams like IELTS or TOEFL. Incorrect: • 'Therefore we need more funding.' • 'Moreover the research confirms our hypothesis.' • 'In conclusion I believe the policy should change.' Correct: • 'Therefore, we need more funding.' • 'Moreover, the research confirms our hypothesis.' • 'In conclusion, I believe the policy should change.' The comma after the conjunctive adverb serves an important purpose: it creates a brief pause that signals to the reader, 'I am about to present the main clause.' Without that pause, the sentence rushes forward and can momentarily confuse the reader about where the connector ends and the main idea begins. This rule also applies when the conjunctive adverb appears in the middle of a sentence. In that position, it needs commas on both sides: • 'The plan is, however, not without risks.' • 'The results were, therefore, inconclusive.' Think of mid-sentence conjunctive adverbs as parenthetical insertions — they interrupt the main clause, and the commas mark the boundaries of that interruption. If you remove the conjunctive adverb and its commas, the sentence should still be grammatically complete. That is a quick test you can apply whenever you are unsure.
Error Type 4: Ignoring Formality Levels
Choosing the right connector is not just about grammar — it is also about register. English connectors exist on a spectrum from casual to highly formal, and using the wrong register can make your writing sound awkward even if the grammar is perfect. Imagine texting a friend: 'Nevertheless, let us meet at seven o'clock.' The grammar is flawless, but the tone is absurdly stiff for a casual message. Now imagine writing an academic paper: 'So the data basically shows that pollution is bad.' The grammar is acceptable, but the tone is far too conversational for a research context. Here is a practical formality guide you can reference: Casual (texting, chatting): but, so, also, plus, like, anyway, still Neutral (emails, reports): however, as a result, in addition, for instance, even so Formal (essays, papers): nevertheless, consequently, moreover, furthermore, indeed, nonetheless, thus, hence A common mistake among Korean learners is defaulting to formal connectors in every situation because those are the ones taught in textbooks. Korean English education tends to emphasize academic vocabulary, so students learn moreover and consequently before they learn also and so. The result is writing and speech that sounds unnaturally stiff in everyday contexts. The fix is awareness. Before you choose a connector, ask yourself: 'Who am I writing to, and what is the expected tone?' If you are writing to a colleague, however is fine. If you are chatting with a friend, but is better. If you are writing a thesis, nevertheless adds the right weight. Matching your connector to your audience is a sign of real fluency.
Error Type 5: Confusing Connectors with Similar but Different Meanings
Some English connectors look interchangeable but carry subtle differences that can change the meaning of a sentence or make it logically incoherent. Korean speakers often conflate these because the Korean translations overlap. On the other hand vs. On the contrary: This is the most common confusion. 'On the other hand' introduces a different perspective on the same topic — it does not contradict the previous statement. 'On the contrary' directly negates what was just said. Compare: 'The hotel was expensive. On the other hand, the location was perfect.' (two different aspects) vs. 'He is not lazy. On the contrary, he works fourteen hours a day.' (negation of laziness). Using 'on the other hand' in the second sentence would imply laziness and hard work coexist, which is contradictory. Moreover vs. Also vs. In addition: Moreover adds information that is more significant than what came before — it escalates. Also and in addition simply add parallel information without implying importance. 'The product is affordable. Moreover, it outperforms every competitor.' (escalation) vs. 'I speak English. I also speak French.' (parallel addition). However vs. Nevertheless: Both signal contrast, but nevertheless carries a stronger sense of concession — 'despite everything, this is still true.' However is a lighter, more neutral pivot. 'The weather was terrible. Nevertheless, we completed the marathon.' (strong determination despite adversity) vs. 'The weather was cool. However, we still brought sunscreen.' (simple contrast). For example vs. Such as: 'For example' introduces a full sentence illustration. 'Such as' introduces a noun or noun phrase within the same sentence. You cannot write 'I like sports, such as I play tennis every day' because 'I play tennis every day' is a clause, not a noun. The correct version is 'I like sports such as tennis, basketball, and swimming.'
Connector Formality Reference Chart
The following chart organizes the most important English connectors by function and formality level. Bookmark this section and return to it whenever you are writing an email, essay, or message and need to pick the right word. Contrast (showing an opposing idea): Casual: but, still, yet | Neutral: however, even so | Formal: nevertheless, nonetheless, notwithstanding Cause and effect (showing why something happened or what resulted): Casual: so, that's why | Neutral: as a result, because of this | Formal: therefore, consequently, thus, hence Addition (adding more information): Casual: also, plus, and | Neutral: in addition, besides | Formal: moreover, furthermore, additionally Example (illustrating a point): Casual: like | Neutral: for example, for instance | Formal: such as, to illustrate, namely Emphasis (strengthening a point): Casual: really, actually | Neutral: in fact | Formal: indeed, as a matter of fact Concession (acknowledging the other side): Casual: but still, even though | Neutral: even so, admittedly | Formal: nonetheless, notwithstanding, be that as it may Time and sequence: Casual: then, next, after that | Neutral: subsequently, in the meantime | Formal: thereafter, henceforth, meanwhile Conclusion (wrapping up): Casual: anyway, so basically | Neutral: in short, to sum up | Formal: in conclusion, to summarize, all things considered A practical tip for essays: never repeat the same connector more than twice in a two-hundred-and-fifty-word paragraph. Variety in your connector choices directly improves your Coherence and Cohesion score in standardized tests and makes your writing more engaging for any reader.
Practical Editing Exercise
The best way to internalize connector rules is to practice identifying and fixing errors in real sentences. Below are eight sentences, each containing at least one connector mistake. Try to find the error and correct it before checking the answers in the quiz section. 1. The weather was bad, however we went hiking. (Hint: What punctuation does a conjunctive adverb need before it?) 2. Because she was tired, therefore she went to bed early. (Hint: Are two linking words doing the same job?) 3. He speaks English. Moreover he speaks Japanese fluently. (Hint: What is missing after the conjunctive adverb?) 4. The food was amazing. On the other hand, the bill was outrageous. (Hint: Is this really a different perspective, or a contrast?) 5. I enjoy many outdoor activities, such as I go hiking every weekend. (Hint: What type of phrase should follow 'such as'?) 6. Nevertheless I completely agree with your assessment. (Hint: Missing punctuation after the adverb.) 7. She is not shy at all. On the other hand, she is extremely outgoing. (Hint: Is this another perspective or a direct negation?) 8. All in all, in conclusion, the project was a great success. (Hint: How many conclusion connectors do you need?) After you attempt all eight corrections, check your answers against the quiz below. If you got at least six right, you have a solid grasp of English connector mechanics. If you scored lower, review the specific error types above and try again — repetition is the key to mastery.
Frequently Asked Questions About Connectors
Q: How many times can I use the same connector in one essay? A: A good guideline is no more than twice per two hundred and fifty words. If you find yourself reaching for however a third time, switch to nevertheless, even so, or yet. Variety signals language proficiency and keeps your reader engaged. Q: Should I put a connector in every sentence? A: Absolutely not. Overusing connectors is just as problematic as underusing them. If every sentence starts with Moreover or Furthermore, your writing will feel mechanical and forced. Use connectors at logical transition points — when you shift from one idea to another, introduce evidence, or draw a conclusion. Many sentences within a paragraph flow naturally without any explicit connector. Q: When should I use a semicolon instead of a period before a conjunctive adverb? A: Use a semicolon when the two clauses are closely related and you want to emphasize that connection. 'She studied all night; therefore, she passed the exam.' The semicolon tells the reader these ideas are tightly linked. A period creates a stronger pause and works better when transitioning between broader points. Q: Does connector usage affect my IELTS or TOEFL score? A: Yes, significantly. In IELTS Writing, Coherence and Cohesion accounts for twenty-five percent of your score. Band 7 and above requires accurate and varied use of cohesive devices. In TOEFL iBT, the integrated and independent writing rubrics both reward logical organization, which depends heavily on connector accuracy. Q: Is it okay to start a sentence with 'And' or 'But'? A: In modern English, yes — starting a sentence with And or But is widely accepted in journalism, fiction, and even academic writing. Style guides like the Chicago Manual of Style explicitly permit it. However, avoid doing it in every paragraph, and be aware that some conservative teachers may still mark it as informal.
Key Takeaways and Next Steps
Let us consolidate the five core rules that will eliminate the vast majority of connector errors from your English writing. Rule 1: Conjunctive adverbs (however, therefore, moreover, nevertheless, consequently, furthermore, meanwhile, nonetheless) must be preceded by a period or semicolon when they join two independent clauses. A comma alone creates a comma splice. Rule 2: Never combine a subordinating conjunction with a conjunctive adverb for the same logical relationship. Choose although OR nevertheless, because OR therefore, but OR however — never both. Rule 3: Always place a comma after a conjunctive adverb at the beginning of a sentence, and use commas on both sides when it appears mid-sentence. Rule 4: Match your connector's formality to your audience. Use but and so in casual contexts, however and as a result in professional emails, and nevertheless and consequently in academic papers. Rule 5: Learn the precise meaning of each connector. On the other hand is not the same as on the contrary. Moreover implies escalation, not simple addition. Such as introduces nouns, not full clauses. To build lasting fluency with connectors, practice in three ways. First, write short paragraphs using a variety of connectors and check them against these rules. Second, read English articles and highlight every connector you find — notice how professional writers vary their choices. Third, in everyday conversation, start incorporating casual connectors like but, so, and still before moving to more formal ones. Connector mastery is not about memorizing a list; it is about understanding the system and applying it consistently until it becomes second nature.
Examples
비가 왔다. 그래서 우리는 집에 있었다. (격식 버전) — It was raining. Therefore, we stayed indoors.
비가 왔지만 우리는 나갔다. — It was raining, but we went out.
그녀는 피곤했다; 그럼에도 불구하고 계속 일했다. — She was tired; nevertheless, she kept working.
비록 비가 왔지만, 우리는 나갔다. — Although it was raining, we went out.
가격이 비싸다. 하지만 품질은 우수하다. 게다가 보증도 제공된다. — The price is high. However, the quality is excellent. Moreover, it comes with a warranty.
예를 들어, 일본은 고령화 문제가 심각하다. — For example, Japan faces a serious aging problem.
일본 같은 나라는 고령화 문제가 심각하다. — Countries such as Japan face serious aging problems.
결론적으로, 영어 연결어는 구두점이 핵심이다. — In conclusion, English connectors are all about punctuation.
그는 게으르지 않다. 반대로, 하루 14시간 일한다. — He is not lazy. On the contrary, he works fourteen hours a day.
테니스, 농구, 수영 같은 스포츠를 좋아한다. — I enjoy sports such as tennis, basketball, and swimming.
Common Mistakes
Incorrect: She is smart, moreover, she is kind. → Correct: She is smart. Moreover, she is kind.. The conjunctive adverb 'moreover' cannot join two independent clauses with just a comma. Use a period or semicolon before it.
Incorrect: Although it was expensive, but I bought it. → Correct: Although it was expensive, I bought it.. 'Although' (subordinating conjunction) and 'but' (coordinating conjunction) serve the same contrastive function. Use one, not both.
Incorrect: He is not lazy. On the other hand, he works 12 hours a day. → Correct: He is not lazy. On the contrary, he works 12 hours a day.. 'On the contrary' negates the previous statement. 'On the other hand' presents a different aspect of the same topic, which does not fit here.
Incorrect: I like sports, such as I play tennis every day. → Correct: I like sports. For example, I play tennis every day.. 'Such as' must be followed by a noun or noun phrase, not a full clause. Use 'for example' to introduce a complete sentence.
Incorrect: Nevertheless, but I think you're right. → Correct: Nevertheless, I think you're right.. 'Nevertheless' (conjunctive adverb) and 'but' (conjunction) both signal concession. Using both is redundant.
Incorrect: The movie was boring, therefore I left early. → Correct: The movie was boring. Therefore, I left early.. 'Therefore' is a conjunctive adverb and needs a period or semicolon before it, plus a comma after it.
Incorrect: Because it snowed heavily, consequently all flights were cancelled. → Correct: Because it snowed heavily, all flights were cancelled.. 'Because' already establishes causation, so adding 'consequently' is redundant. Keep only one causal connector.
Quiz
What must always appear before a conjunctive adverb (however, therefore, etc.) when it connects two independent clauses?
Conjunctive adverbs are not conjunctions and cannot join independent clauses. A period or semicolon must close the first clause.
Which sentence is grammatically correct?
A period closes the first clause, and 'However' starts the new sentence with a comma after it. The other options either double up connectors or use comma splices.
Which connector is most appropriate for a formal academic essay to replace 'so'?
In academic writing, 'so' is too informal. 'Thus' and 'therefore' are the standard formal equivalents for expressing cause and effect.