* Conjunctions: These words connect words, phrases, or clauses. They act as bridges by showing the relationship between the elements they join. Examples: and, but, or, because, so, while.
* Prepositions: These words show the relationship between a noun or pronoun and another word in the sentence. They can be considered bridges because they link the noun or pronoun to the rest of the sentence. Examples: on, in, at, to, from, for.
* Relative pronouns: These pronouns connect a dependent clause to an independent clause. They act as bridges by introducing the dependent clause and relating it back to the main clause. Examples: who, whom, whose, which, that.
* Transition words: These words connect ideas between sentences or paragraphs. They function as bridges by smoothly transitioning from one thought to the next. Examples: however, therefore, furthermore, in addition.
Ultimately, the specific term depends on the precise function of the word in question.
Could you provide me with an example of the "bridge" function you're interested in? I might be able to give you a more specific answer.