Conjunctions

Sentences are made up of different parts, and we can connect these parts using conjunctions.

Introduction

Conjunctions allow us to make meaningful connections between ideas in our writing; however, we need to make sure we use the correct type of conjunction, and the correct punctuation.

Coordinating conjunctions

A coordinating conjunction links two parts of a sentence that carry similar grammatical weight. The relationship between these two parts is clear and direct.

Common coordinating conjunctions are for, and, nor, but, or, yet and so.

If both parts are independent clauses, a comma should be introduced before the coordinating conjunction.

Correlative conjunctions

Correlative conjunctions act in a similar way to coordinating conjunctions, but they come in pairs.

Common correlative conjunctions are both ... and, either ... or, just as ... so, neither ... nor, not only ... but also, and whether ... or.

Subordinating conjunctions

Subordinating conjunctions link dependent and independent clauses in a specific way.

There are many subordinating conjunctions: some common ones are after, although, as, because, even though, if, so that, though, unless, and until.

If a subordinating conjunction is placed in the middle of a sentence it is usually not preceded by a comma. (This is the opposite of what is done with coordinating conjunctions.)

However, if a subordinating conjunction is placed at the beginning of a sentence, the opening clause is followed by a comma.

Conjunctive adverbs

Conjunctive adverbs are adverbs that perform the role of a conjunction.

A conjunctive adverb links independent clauses in the same way as a coordinating conjunction; however, it represents a stronger division of the sentence parts and is therefore accompanied by a semicolon.

Some common conjunctive adverbs are finally, furthermore, however, indeed, nevertheless, still, therefore and thus.

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