Connection Expressions That Improve JLPT Reading

In JLPT reading, connection expressions are important signals. They show how one sentence relates to the next. If you miss them, you may misunderstand the writer’s conclusion, reason, contrast, or change of topic.

しかし and ところが show contrast. They tell you that the next sentence moves in a different direction from the previous one. 一方で compares two sides or two viewpoints.

それに and さらに add information. However, ところで changes the topic. It does not add more information to the same topic; it moves the conversation or text to a new topic.

つまり and 要するに summarize or rephrase the previous information. In reading questions, the writer’s main point often appears near these expressions. ただし adds a condition, limitation, or exception.

When studying connection expressions, do not memorize them as isolated words. Group them by function: addition, contrast, comparison, summary, condition, and topic shift.

Practice connection expressions

Main expressions in this guide

• しかし
• ところが
• 一方で
• それに
• さらに
• ところで
• つまり
• 要するに
• ただし

Related articles

• Reading the Author’s Real Intention in JLPT Passages: What Comes After 「一方で」(on the other hand), 「たしかに」(it is true that), and 「しかし」(however)?
• JLPT Reading Expressions: Quick Guide
• What Connector Expressions Are Easy to Misread on the JLPT? Move Beyond a Vague “But” and “And” Mindset
• JLPT N2 Grammar Is Not Solved by Meaning Alone: How to Identify Grammar Through Connection, Context, and Evaluation
• Struggling with JLPT N3/N2 Reading Speed? Focus on 「主張」(claim), 「理由」(reason), and 「対比」(contrast)
• How to Read Japanese Demonstratives in Reading: What Do “This,” “That,” and “That Over There” Refer To?
• JLPT Reading: If You Get Confused by Answer Choices, You May Be Weak at「言い換え」(ii-kae / paraphrasing)
• What Is the Difference Between 「ただし」 and 「しかし」?

Related hub pages

For cause and reason expressions, see Confusing JLPT Cause and Reason Expressions.

For limitation expressions, see Confusing JLPT Limitation Expressions.