L'intrus
French debate connectors that add a reason rather than an opposition
Identify the logical outsider in six French connector groups, distinguishing added reasons, concession, correction, reformulation and consequence in context.
- C1
- 6 rows
- Find the odd one out
- Learn this in the C1 notebook →
In short
Choose a connector for the relation you actually mean. De surcroît adds a point; en effet supports or explains; néanmoins introduces a restriction. Their formal appearance does not make them interchangeable.
Yellow the idea to rememberBlue French to learn
If the venue is accessible and also cheaper, de surcroît can add the second advantage. If it is accessible but too small, néanmoins can mark the limit. Before choosing a polished expression, say the relation in simple terms: another reason, an explanation, a contrast, a correction or a result.
Tap the word that doesn't belong in each row.
The first two add a supporting point; néanmoins introduces a restriction.
The first two can explain or support; cependant marks opposition.
The first two contrast; par conséquent draws a consequence.
The first two reformulate; de plus adds.
The first two infer a consequence; en revanche contrasts.
The first two reinforce by addition; au contraire reverses a proposition.
| Relation | Connected example |
|---|---|
| Addition | La salle est accessible ; de surcroît, elle coûte moins cher. |
| Explanation | Le choix est pratique ; en effet, la salle est proche de la gare. |
| Restriction | La salle est accessible ; néanmoins, sa capacité reste insuffisante. |
| Consequence | La capacité est insuffisante ; il faut donc limiter les inscriptions. |
Read beyond the connector
Some expressions have several uses, and a group exercise isolates one familiar function. In a complete text, the propositions still determine whether a link makes sense. Do not classify every occurrence from the word alone or treat a formal synonym as proof of a stronger argument.
For revision, remove the connector and write the intended relation in the margin. Restore a connector only if it helps the reader follow that relation. A plain mais remains useful when it expresses the contrast accurately.