Furthermore and moreover are formal and need a semicolon or a new sentence, as in furthermore, the report highlights several unresolved safety concerns. In addition to takes a noun or gerund mid-sentence, and besides works as a discourse marker meaning also, as in the hotel is close to the beach, besides, the staff are friendly.
Grammar Rule
Discourse markers of addition link ideas that reinforce a previous point, but differ in register and punctuation.
Discourse Markers of Addition: Rules and Examples
| Marker | Structure | Example |
|---|---|---|
| furthermore / moreover | formal, semicolon or new sentence | Furthermore, the report highlights several unresolved safety concerns. |
| in addition to + noun/gerund | mid-sentence | In addition to the salary, employees receive a full benefits package. |
| besides | also (discourse marker) | The hotel is close to the beach. Besides, the staff are incredibly friendly. |
Remember: furthermore/moreover/in addition = formal, need a semicolon or period before them; besides ≠ beside.
Practice Test
Instructions
Answer each question in the test below choosing the correct discourse marker of addition. You will get a new random set of questions every time you retake the test, plus a downloadable results summary with your name and score at the end.
Discourse Markers Addition
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do you use furthermore or moreover?
Start a new sentence with them, or use a semicolon before them, as in furthermore, the report highlights several unresolved safety concerns.
How do you use in addition to?
Follow it with a noun or gerund mid-sentence, as in in addition to the salary, employees receive a full benefits package.
What does besides mean as a discourse marker?
It means also, as in the hotel is close to the beach, besides, the staff are incredibly friendly.
Is besides the same word as beside?
No, besides means also or in addition, while beside means next to; the two words are not interchangeable.