Conjunction

Conjunctions are words that connect other words, phrases, or clauses in a sentence. They are essential for constructing complex sentences and improving the flow of writing. There are three main types of conjunctions: coordinating, subordinating, and correlative.

1. Coordinating Conjunctions#

These conjunctions join elements of equal importance in a sentence. The primary coordinating conjunctions can be remembered with the acronym FANBOYS:

• For: Presents a reason (e.g., I left early, for I was feeling tired).
• And: Adds one thing to another (e.g., She bought apples and oranges).
• Nor: Presents an alternative negative idea to an already stated negative idea (e.g., He didn’t like the movie, nor did he enjoy the play).
• But: Shows contrast (e.g., I wanted to go, but I was too busy).
• Or: Presents an alternative or choice (e.g., Would you like tea or coffee?).
• Yet: Shows contrast, similar to but (e.g., It was late, yet they continued to play).
• So: Shows cause and effect (e.g., It was raining, so we stayed inside).

2. Subordinating Conjunctions#

These conjunctions connect an independent clause with a dependent clause, showing a relationship such as cause, time, or condition. Some common subordinating conjunctions include:

• After: Shows time (e.g., We can go out after the rain stops).
• Although: Shows contrast (e.g., Although it was raining, we went for a walk).
• Because: Shows cause (e.g., She was late because she missed the bus).
• Before: Shows time (e.g., He left before the sun rose).
• If: Shows condition (e.g., If it rains, we will stay home).
• Since: Shows cause or time (e.g., Since it’s late, we should leave; I haven’t seen him since he moved).
• Unless: Shows condition (e.g., I won’t go unless you come with me).
• Until: Shows time (e.g., I will wait until you arrive).
• When: Shows time (e.g., Call me when you arrive).
• While: Shows time or contrast (e.g., She read a book while waiting).

3. Correlative Conjunctions#

These pairs of conjunctions work together to coordinate two items. Common pairs include:

• Both…and: (e.g., Both the teacher and the students were excited).
• Either…or: (e.g., You can either come with us or stay home).
• Neither…nor: (e.g., Neither the manager nor the employees knew about the changes).
• Not only…but also: (e.g., She is not only smart but also hardworking).
• Whether…or: (e.g., I can’t decide whether to stay or leave).

Usage Tips#

• Use coordinating conjunctions to join similar elements (words, phrases, or independent clauses).
• Use subordinating conjunctions to introduce dependent clauses that add information to the main clause.
• Use correlative conjunctions in pairs to emphasize the relationship between two elements.

Examples#

1. Coordinating: I wanted to go for a hike, but it started to rain.
2. Subordinating: She stayed at home because she was feeling unwell.
3. Correlative: Either you can come with us, or you can stay home.

Understanding and using conjunctions effectively can greatly enhance the clarity and complexity of your writing.