Lesson 11 of 125 min read
Cause, Effect & Argument
Linking phrases are useful only when the logical relationship is right. Decide whether you are giving a cause, a result, a contrast or a limitation before choosing the words.
Understand the pattern
Lead to and result in introduce an outcome; result from introduces a cause. Be associated with reports a connection without necessarily claiming causation. If two things occur together, a writer may still lack evidence that one produced the other. Preserve that distinction when explaining or paraphrasing an argument.
Match connectors to grammar. Because takes a clause: because the road was closed. Because of takes a noun phrase: because of the closure. Although introduces a contrasting clause, while despite can introduce a noun phrase or -ing form. Memorising only a translation leaves these structures unresolved.
A clear argument also identifies limits. One drawback is, a possible explanation is and this depends on let you qualify a claim. Avoid adding however or therefore as decoration. However needs a contrast, and therefore implies a conclusion or result that follows from the previous idea.
Language in context
| Word or pattern | Meaning or use | Example |
|---|---|---|
| lead to / result in | Introduce a stated outcome | The closure led to longer journeys. |
| be associated with | Report a connection | Longer journeys were associated with lower satisfaction. |
| despite + noun phrase | Express contrast | The service continued despite the disruption. |
| one drawback is | Introduce a limitation | One drawback is the extra travel time. |
Worked example
Reason through the choice
A survey finds that people who exercise more report better sleep. Does Exercise causes better sleep preserve the survey's claim?
Answer: Not necessarily. More exercise was associated with better reported sleep is the cautious version supported here.
The information describes an observed relationship, not a design that establishes cause. It also concerns reported sleep. Removing either qualification makes the statement stronger than the evidence supplied.
Try it yourself
Write your answers before opening the key. For open responses, the suggested answer is one possible version; keep the meaning and check the target pattern.
- Correct: The meeting was delayed because of the train was late.
- Complete with although or despite: ___ the high cost, the project continued.
- Join these ideas with a contrast: The service is convenient. It is expensive.
Check answers and explanations
1. The meeting was delayed because the train was late. Because introduces the clause. Because of the late train would use a noun phrase instead.
2. Despite. The high cost is a noun phrase. Although the cost was high would be a clause.
3. The service is convenient; however, it is expensive. The second idea qualifies the positive first idea. Therefore would suggest the wrong relationship.
Use it in your PTE preparation
PTE Academic
In a summary or essay, identify whether the source claims a cause, a correlation or a possibility. Choose verbs and connectors that preserve that level of evidence. Include a limitation only if it is relevant and supported.
PTE Core
For an explanation or request, give the reason and the action in a clear order: Because my shift changed, could we reschedule the appointment? Avoid overcomplicated linking phrases that obscure what you need.
Recall and transfer
Describe a practical problem using because, then rewrite it using because of. Add a contrasting sentence with despite. Check that changing the grammar has not changed the cause, effect or degree of certainty.