 IPSO FACTO literally translates to "by the fact itself," which can be interpreted as "given a certain fact, what follows or results must be true." Sounds logical, yes? Just like TRANSITIONS THAT INTRODUCE EXPECTED RESULTS. Transitions in this category include the following: consequently, as a consequence, therefore, obviously, as such, as a result, hence, thus, accordingly, it comes as no surprise, it stands to reason, logically, since, because, as expected, it follows, if/then, and in that case These transitions are typically listed after a given fact. But depending how you structure your sentences, they can sometimes show up earlier. Logically and since are two that usually appear first and because can appear before or after. To be included in this category, then must be preceded by another word like if or since. EXAMPLE SENTENCES: Jim likes marshmallows but they don't like him back. Consequently, he tries very hard to resist their lure. Sam missed the application deadline. Even though he pleaded, it came as no surprise the college refused to consider him. Sarah didn't pay her credit card bill on time and therefore was assessed a late fee by the bank. Tracy was gung ho to help out. Hence, I put her right to work. Diane makes the most amazing cookies, and I never met a cookie I didn't like. So obviously, I jump at the opportunity to be her official taste tester. Since Harrison had glowing reviews and lots of experience, we chose him to become our new dog sitter. Results of the survey came in as expected, based on all our prior research. Logically, Ben chose that car because it was the only one he could afford. I'm terrified of spiders. As such, please don't ask me to kill them for you. If Warren finishes his homework on time, then he can watch TV. Karen has a miserable cold. As a result, she can't make the party tonight. Ooh boy, I'm getting sleepy. Thus, I will end this spoonful here. HAPPY THANKSGIVING! I wish you all a wonderful holiday. Sincerely, Laura Fineberg Cooper
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 IN CONTRAST from my previous post on transitions that herald new information, this spoonful is all about transitions that signal contrast. Is it any surprise that the first transition expression in this category is IN CONTRAST? Read on for more! Here is a listing of transition words included in this category: in contrast, but, however, despite, in spite of, nonetheless, nevertheless, although, though, yet, unlike, rather than, other than, besides, instead of, conversely, contrary to, whereas, and except. EXAMPLE SENTENCES:
Janet loves cats but can't tolerate the smell of kitty litter. I would participate in Saturday's event; however, I need to work. Most of the children wore the school colors of blue and white to the concert. In contrast, Maryellen wore purple polka-dotted tights and a fuchsia top. All members have replied by the deadline except for you know who. In spite of his nasty cold, Timothy marched with band. Rather than quit the tennis team after losing the match, Meredith vowed to work even harder. Sometimes I feel like I'm running out of topics, yet new ones always pop into my head. I heard your argument. Nevertheless, I haven't changed my mind. Kevin is always clean and polished, unlike Sam who is always covered in dirt. Other than one day in May, Barry has been consistently tardy. Though Carol practiced every day, she didn't make the team. I think that's enough examples for now. Conversely, would you like more? You got it! Whereas Bob claims he doesn't like sweets, I catch him sneaking candy bars every day. Contary to most students in her class, Anna isn't afraid to raise her hand and share her opinions. You can often substitute words within this category. Try switching although for though, besides for other than, and nonetheless for nevertheless. You can make other substitutions with minor tweaks to your sentences. I hope you enjoyed this spoonful. Next week, I'll tackle transitions that introduce results. Have a great week! Sincerely, Laura  Life is punctuated by major transitions: from diapers to big kid undies, from high school to college, and from college to job or grad school! But transitions aren't always so dramatic. In writing, they smooth the path from one paragraph to the next or ensure that new information is viewed in the proper light. Sometimes, as the SAT proves, it can difficult to figure out the proper transition word to use for each case. In keeping with my "one spoonful at a time" philosophy, each transition category will have its own post. First up... TRANSITIONS THAT ADD NEW INFORMATION: also, and, another, besides, further, furthermore, in addition, additionally, moreover, too, as well, plus
Many lists place more transition words in this particular category. One such word is alternatively. To me, however, that word belongs in a different category: transition words that show contrast. (Ooh...does that sound like the next spoonful?!) Until then, I wish you all a wonderful week. Sincerely, Laura Fineberg Cooper A Spoonful of Grammar  Below is a summary of Spoonfuls #26-#34, plus a fun spoonful to honor a day close to my heart. By clicking on a blue title, you can easily access the particular posts that interest you. For the best way to peruse Spoonfuls #1-#24, look to my first summary in Spoonful #25. Spoonful#26: END PAST/PASSED CONFUSION As the title suggests, the goal of Spoonful #26 is to stop PAST and PASSED confusion in its tracks. Spoonful #27: LESS VS. FEWER If you think LESS and FEWER mean the same thing, you're more or LESS correct. But they aren't inter-changeable! Why? It's a question of countability. Spoonful #28: LIE/LAY/LAID This is "wings down" the most mind boggling word trio around. Period. If you're confused, rest assured, you're in good company. I'll do my best to LAY the rules on you straight! Spoonful #29: ALL READY VS. ALREADY What the 'L is going on here? ALL READY and ALREADY are duking it out! National Punctuation Day! A Special Spoonful Greetings, dear readers! I just learned that Sept. 24th was the 16th annual National Punctuation Day! Spoonful #30: INSURE/ENSURE/ASSURE Some style guides declare that INSURE, ENSURE, and ASSURE can be used interchangeably. But some do not! What's a writer to do when even the experts don't agree? Spoonful #31: ME, MYSELF, and I This spoonful is all about ME, MYSELF, and I. But please don't think I'm going to share my entire life story! Spoonful #32: WHOOO'S MIXED UP ABOUT WHO, WHOM, WHOSE, & WHO'S? Whooo's ready to discuss WHO, WHOM, WHO'S, and WHOSE? I pledge to provide some quick and easy ways to tell them apart. Spoonful #33: DOODLY-DO: DO/DOES/DID DO you realize that DO, DOES, and DID are fighting words? Read on and all will be explained. Spoonful #34: PEEK, PEAK, and PIQUE EEK! PEEK and PEAK can be scarily difficult to keep straight, while PIQUE is so unique, it can be frightening all on its own. So let's address this fearsome trio one at a time! I hope you find this summary helpful. I'll be back next Sunday with a brand new spoonful. Until then, I wish you all a glorious week. Sincerely, Laura Fineberg Cooper How to contact me: Email: cooperlaura@yahoo.com My website: laurafcooper.com Twitter: @cooperlauraf Facebook: Laura Fineberg Cooper
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