5 French Connectors That Will Instantly Boost Your Writing Score (TEF/TCF)

Published: January 9, 2026 | Category: Grammar | Read Time: 12 Mins

In the Writing Section (Expression Écrite) of TEF and TCF Canada, the difference between a CLB 5 (B1) and a CLB 7 (B2) is often not your vocabulary size from the dictionary. It is how you connect your ideas.

Examiners use a grading grid. One of the biggest criteria is "Cohérence et Cohésion".

1. Par ailleurs (Furthermore / Moreover)

The Problem: Students overuse "Et" (And) or "Aussi" (Also). It sounds childish. The Fix: Use Par ailleurs when adding a new, distinct argument to support your point.

2. En revanche (However / On the other hand)

The Problem: Students overuse "Mais" (But). The Fix: Use En revanche to show a strong contrast or opposition between two ideas. Note: It is stronger and more formal than Cependant.

3. Étant donné que (Given that / Since)

The Problem: Students overuse "Parce que" (Because) or "Car". The Fix: Use Étant donné que to introduce an evident cause or a known fact at the beginning of a sentence.

4. Pourvu que (Provided that + Subjunctive)

The Heavy Hitter. This connector is a double-points scorer.

1. It shows logical restriction (Condition).
2. It forces the use of the SUBJUNCTIVE MOOD.

Using the Subjunctive correctly is often the key to unlocking C1.

5. C’est la raison pour laquelle (That is the reason why)

The Problem: Students overuse "Donc" (So) or "Alors". The Fix: Use this phrase to conclude an argument with weight.

Summary Checklist

Before submitting your essay, scan specific spots for these connectors:

1. Adding a 2nd argument? -> Swap "Et" for Par ailleurs.
2. Opposing an idea? -> Swap "Mais" for En revanche.
3. Explaining a cause? -> Swap "Parce que" for Étant donné que.
4. Setting a condition? -> Try to use Pourvu que + Subjonctif.
5. Concluding? -> Swap "Donc" for .