Speaking coherence

Question 1

on top of that

Answer 1

Adding detail to the previous point ( = besides that )
E.g.
- A: What do you like about living here in the South West?
- B: Well, I love the fresh air, the people are friendly and on top of that it’s cheap!

Question 2

that said

Answer 2

Introducing an idea that contrasts with the previous point ( =even so )
E.g. The economy is struggling. That said, house prices rose slightly last month.

Question 3

in particular

Answer 3

Giving an example related to the previous point, more than others
E.g. He socialized with the other young people, one boy in particular

Question 4

the thing is

Answer 4

Giving an explanation for the previous point

E.g. The thing is, my parents like me to be home by ten o’clock.

Question 5

on the grounds that

Answer 5

For the reason that ( =because )
E.g. Some countries have proposed a tax on fizzy drinks on the grounds that it will discourage people from drinking so much.

Question 6

to build upon one’s/the point/idea a little more

Answer 6

Adding detail to an idea

E.g. To build upon this idea, I would like to present the example of Abercrombie and Fitch

Question 7

looking at it from another point of view

Answer 7

Contrasting by giving a different perspective/opinion

E.g. Looking at it from another point of view, social media has numerous benefits to users.

Question 8

ultimately

Answer 8

Concluding an argument with a final point

E.g. Ultimately, we are the only ones who can improve our health.

Question 9

at the end of the day

Answer 9

Something that you say before you give the most important fact of a situation
E.g. Of course I’ll listen to what she said but at the end of the day, it’s my decision.

Question 10

in a nutshell

Answer 10

To conclude with a final point

E.g. In a nutshell, we should protect the environment at all costs.

Question 11

in the act of

Answer 11

In the process of

E.g. They photographed him in the act of reading other people’s mail