Conjunction - Definition, Types, Use & Examples, Worksheet

Conjunctions: The Magical Bridges of Language

Table of content

1. Introduction

2. What Are Conjunctions?

3. Types of Conjunctions

4. Functions of Conjunctions

5. Common Mistakes with Conjunctions

6. List of conjunctions

7. Conjunction Worksheet/ Exercise

8. FAQs

Definition :

A word which joins two words, two phrases or two sentences is called as a "Conjunction".
The most commonly used conjunctions are - and, or, but

For example:

• My friend and I went to the market yesterday but we didn't buy anything. I will go to the market tomorrow and I will buy a shirt or T-shirt.

1. Introduction

Conjunctions in English might seem like small and insignificant words, but they possess a magical power in the world of language. Like little bridges, they connect words, phrases, and clauses, allowing us to create complex and meaningful sentences. 

From simple connections to intricate relationships, conjunctions play a pivotal role in expressing our thoughts, ideas, and emotions. 

In this delightful journey through the realm of conjunctions, we will explore their various types, functions, and how they contribute to the beauty of communication.

2. What Are Conjunctions?

Before we delve into the fascinating world of conjunctions, let's understand what they are. Conjunctions are words used to link or join different elements in a sentence, providing a smooth flow and coherence. They are essential for creating well-structured sentences and maintaining logical relationships between words, phrases, or clauses.

Conjunctions serve as the bridges that link ideas together, allowing us to express complex thoughts with ease. Without conjunctions, our language would be fragmented, making it challenging to convey relationships between different elements in a sentence.

In simple words, Conjunctions are connectors.

3. Types of Conjunctions

There are three main types of conjunctions, each serving a unique purpose in constructing sentences and conveying meaning. Let's explore them one by one:

a. Coordinating Conjunctions

Coordinating conjunctions are the friendly connectors that link words, phrases, or independent clauses of equal importance. They create balance and harmony in a sentence. 

The seven coordinating conjunctions are easy to remember using the acronym FANBOYS:

Conjunction	Use	Example Sentence
For	Used to indicate cause or reason.	He stayed at home, for it was raining outside.
And	Used to add similar or related ideas.	He likes to sing, and she enjoys dancing.
Nor	Used to present negative alternatives.	She didn't study for the test, nor did she bring her textbook.
But	Used to show a contrast or contradiction.	He wanted to go out, but his car wouldn't start.
Or	Used to present alternatives.	What would you like to have, tea or coffee?
Yet	Used to show contrast or surprise.	It was raining heavily, yet they decided to go for a walk.
So	Used to show the result or consequence.	He studied hard, so he cleared the exam.

b. Subordinating Conjunctions

Subordinating conjunctions, also known as "dependent" conjunctions, create a relationship of dependence between the main clause and the subordinate clause. The subordinate clause cannot stand alone as a complete sentence but relies on the main clause for meaning.

Subordinating conjunctions connect a dependent clause (subordinate clause) to an independent clause, showing a relationship of cause, time, condition, comparison, or purpose.

Some common subordinating conjunctions include:

Conjunction	Use	Example Sentence
As	Used to show a reason or comparison.	As it got darker, we lit the fire.
As if	Used to indicate a hypothetical or imagined situation.	He acted as if he knew the answer.
As long as	Used to show conditions.	You can stay as long as you like.
As soon as	Used to indicate immediate action following something else.	I will call you as soon as I arrive.
As much as	Used to compare the extent or degree.	I like her as much as I like him.
As far as	Used to show limitation or extent.	As far as I know, she’s coming.
Before	Used to indicate an action happening earlier in time.	Finish your homework before you go out.
By the time	Used to indicate that something has already happened by a certain moment.	By the time we arrived, the movie had already started.
In order to	Used to express purpose or intention.	She left early in order to catch the train.
In case	Used to express precaution or preparedness for something.	Take an umbrella in case it rains.
Though	Used to introduce a contrast.	Though he tried, he couldn’t fix it.
Even if	Used to introduce a condition that doesn't change the outcome.	Even if it rains, I’ll still go running.
Than	Used to compare two elements.	He is taller than I am.
When	Used to refer to time or occasion.	Call me when you’re ready.
Where	Used to indicate place.	This is where I grew up.
Wherever	Used to refer to any place or situation.	We’ll go wherever you want.
Unless	Used to introduce a condition where something won’t happen unless another thing does.	I won’t go unless you come with me.
Till/Until	Used to indicate up to the point in time or event mentioned.	I’ll wait till/until you’re finished.
Whenever	Used to indicate any time or every time.	You can come whenever you like.
Whereas	Used to introduce a contrast.	She loves cats, whereas I prefer dogs.
Whose	Used to ask about possession.	Do you know whose book this is?
Whosever	Used to indicate possession, often in a situation where ownership is unknown.	Whosever keys these are, they left them here.
After	Used to indicate time following something.	After the movie, we went for dinner.
Although	Used to introduce a contrast.	Although it was cold outside, she went for a jog.
Because	Used to show cause or reason.	She didn’t come because she was sick.
If	Used to present conditions.	If you finish your homework, you can play outside.
Since	Used to indicate time or cause.	He has been studying since morning.
While	Used to express a contrast or a simultaneous action.	She was reading a book while waiting for the train.
So that	Used to show purpose or result.	She left early so that she could catch the train.
As though	Used to describe a hypothetical situation.	He looked as though he had seen a ghost.
Afterwards	Used to indicate a time following an event.	We can go for ice cream afterwards.
Because of	Used to show the reason for something.	We stayed home because of the rain.
In spite of	Used to express a contrast or concession.	She succeeded in spite of her difficulties.
Due to	Used to indicate the reason for something.	The game was canceled due to rain.
Regardless of	Used to indicate indifference to conditions.	She kept going regardless of the obstacles.

See also: Though vs Although vs Even Though

c. Correlative Conjunctions

Correlative conjunctions are pairs of conjunctions that work together to connect two balanced clauses, phrases, or words. They are always used in pairs.

Some common examples include:

Conjunction	Use	Example Sentence
Both...and	Used to link two related ideas.	She is both intelligent and hardworking.
Either...or	Used to present two options or alternatives.	You can either join us for the movie or stay at home.
Neither...nor	Used to present two negative alternatives.	Neither the movie nor the play was interesting.
Not only...but also	Used to add emphasis by linking two positive qualities.	He is not only a talented artist but also a skilled writer.
Whether...or	Used to express uncertainty between two options.	I’m unsure whether to stay or leave.
Rather...than	Used to express a preference for one thing over another.	I would rather sleep than watch TV.
Just as...so	Used to compare two similar actions.	Just as you love sports, so does your brother.

d. Conjunctive Adverbs

Conjunctive adverbs are words or phrases that connect two independent clauses or sentences. Conjunctive adverbs are not typical conjunctions, but they serve a similar purpose by linking ideas within sentences or clauses. They are used to express relationships such as cause, effect, contrast, time, sequence, or comparison. 

They often require a semicolon or a period before them, and a comma after them when joining two clauses.

Some common conjunctive adverbs include:

Conjunction	Use	Example Sentence
However	Shows contrast or contradiction.	I wanted to go out; however, it started raining.
Therefore	Indicates a consequence or result.	She studied hard; therefore, she passed the exam.
Moreover	Adds additional information.	The book was interesting; moreover, it was educational.
Consequently	Shows a result or effect.	He didn’t study; consequently, he failed the test.
Furthermore	Adds more information or emphasis.	The project is due tomorrow; furthermore, it needs to be completed by 9 AM.
Nevertheless	Shows a contrast or exception.	She was tired; nevertheless, she finished her homework.
Meanwhile	Indicates simultaneous events.	I was cooking dinner; meanwhile, he was setting the table.
Otherwise	Suggests an alternative or condition.	We need to leave now; otherwise, we’ll be late.
Thus	Indicates a result or conclusion.	The evidence was strong; thus, the verdict was guilty.
Indeed	Adds emphasis or clarification.	He is very talented; indeed, he is one of the best in the team.
Nonetheless	Indicates a contrast or exception.	It was raining heavily; nonetheless, they decided to continue the trip.
Similarly	Shows a comparison between two ideas.	She loves to travel; similarly, her sister enjoys exploring new places.
Finally	Indicates the last in a sequence of events or a conclusion.	We visited three museums; finally, we went to the park.
In addition	Adds more information.	He is a great teacher; in addition, he’s a wonderful mentor.
Instead	Suggests a replacement or alternative.	I didn’t go to the party; instead, I stayed home and watched a movie.
Also	Adds additional information or emphasizes a related point.	She’s a talented musician; also, she can speak three languages fluently.
Afterward	Refers to something happening later or following a certain event.	We had dinner at the restaurant; afterward, we went for a walk by the beach.
Still	Shows that something continues despite potential difficulties or contrary conditions.	He didn’t study much; still, he passed the exam with flying colors.
Next	Indicates something happening immediately after or in a sequence.	First, we’ll review the document; next, we’ll discuss the budget.
Hence	Shows a result or conclusion drawn from something previously stated.	The road was closed due to construction; hence, we had to find an alternate route.
Likewise	Indicates similarity or a parallel between two ideas.	He decided to skip the meeting; likewise, his colleagues preferred to stay home.
Conversely	Shows a contrast or opposite idea to what was previously mentioned.	Most people prefer summer vacations; conversely, I enjoy traveling during the winter months.

4. Functions of Conjunctions

Conjunctions serve various functions in constructing sentences. Let's explore their primary roles:

a. Coordination

Coordinating conjunctions are masters of coordination, joining words, phrases, or independent clauses of equal importance to create balanced and harmonious sentences. They facilitate clear communication and enhance the overall structure of the language.

b. Subordination

Subordinating conjunctions excel in subordination, linking the main clause with a subordinate clause that relies on the main clause for its meaning. This allows us to convey complex relationships between different parts of the sentence and provides depth to our expressions.

c. Combining Sentences

Conjunctions enable us to combine shorter sentences into longer ones, making our writing more concise and coherent. This process enhances readability and makes our communication more effective.

d. Creating Contrast

Conjunctions play a crucial role in expressing contrasts and contradictions, allowing us to highlight differences between ideas or events. This helps add depth and complexity to our language.

e. Presenting Alternatives

Conjunctions are essential when presenting alternatives or choices. They enable us to express options and decisions, making our language more flexible and versatile.

f. Expressing Cause and Effect

By using conjunctions, we can clearly indicate cause and effect relationships in our sentences. This enables us to explain why certain events occur and understand the consequences of actions.

5. Common Mistakes with Conjunctions

Though conjunctions might seem simple, they are not immune to common mistakes.

Let's look at some errors people often make and how to avoid them:

a. Run-on Sentences

Run-on sentences occur when two independent clauses are improperly joined, resulting in an excessively long and confusing sentence. To avoid this, use a coordinating conjunction or use punctuation (a comma and a coordinating conjunction or a semicolon) to separate the clauses properly.

b. Misusing Conjunctions

Using the wrong conjunction can lead to miscommunication and confusion. Make sure to choose the right conjunction that fits the context and relationship between the elements you are connecting.

c. Lack of Parallelism

When using correlative conjunctions or coordinating conjunctions to link similar elements, ensure they follow parallel construction. This means that the elements connected by the conjunctions should have the same grammatical structure.

d. Overusing Conjunctive Adverbs

While conjunctive adverbs can add variety and sophistication to our writing, overusing them can make the text appear cluttered. Use them judiciously to maintain clarity and flow.

Conjunctions are indeed the magical bridges of language.

6. List of conjunctions

1. Coordinating conjunctions:

The seven coordinating conjunctions can be remembered using the acronym FANBOYS:

• For – Shows reason or cause
• And – Adds information or connects similar ideas
• Nor – Presents a negative option
• But – Shows contrast or exception
• Or – Presents a choice or alternative
• Yet – Shows contrast (like "but")
• So – Shows result or consequence

2. Subordinating conjunctions:

Common subordinating conjunctions include:

• Because, Since – Show reason or cause
• Although, Though – Show contrast or concession
• If, Unless – Show condition
• When, While, As – Show time
• Before, After, Until – Show order in time
• Where, Wherever – Show place
• So that, In order that – Show purpose

3. Correlative conjunctions:

Common correlative conjunctions include:

• Either…or
• Neither…nor
• Not only…but also
• Both…and
• Whether…or
• As…as

See also : Interjection

7. Conjunction Worksheet/ Exercise

Instructions: Fill in the blanks with the appropriate conjunctions to complete each sentence.

1. I enjoy both tea ___ coffee.
2. She is allergic ___ peanuts ___ seafood.
3. He wanted to go for a run, ___ it was raining outside.
4. You can have either the chicken ___ the fish for dinner.
5. We can go to the beach ___ stay home and watch a movie.
6. I am tired ___ I have to finish this project tonight.
7. He studied hard ___ he failed the exam.
8. She likes to read novels ___ she enjoys watching movies.
9. They went for a hike ___ a picnic in the park.
10. The party was canceled ___ the bad weather.

Answer Key:

1. and
2. to, and
3. but
4. or
5. or
6. but
7. but
8. and
9. or
10. due to

FAQs: Conjunction

1. What is a conjunction?

A conjunction is a word that connects words, phrases, clauses, or sentences. Examples include "and," "but," "or," "so," "because," and "although."

2. What are the different types of conjunctions?

There are three main types of conjunctions: coordinating conjunctions, subordinating conjunctions, and correlative conjunctions.

3. What is a coordinating conjunction?

A coordinating conjunction connects words, phrases, or clauses of equal importance. The most common ones are "for," "and," "nor," "but," "or," "yet," and "so" (often remembered by the acronym FANBOYS).

4. What is a subordinating conjunction?

A subordinating conjunction connects a dependent clause to an independent clause, showing a relationship such as cause, time, or condition. Examples include "because," "although," "if," "when," and "since."

5. What is a correlative conjunction?

A correlative conjunction pairs with another conjunction to link balanced words, phrases, or clauses. Examples include "either...or," "neither...nor," "both...and," "not only...but also," and "whether...or."

6. Can conjunctions start a sentence?

Yes, conjunctions, especially subordinating conjunctions and coordinating conjunctions like "and," "but," and "or," can start a sentence to add emphasis or create a conversational tone. However, this is more common in informal writing.

7. How do conjunctions improve sentence structure?

Conjunctions help create complex and compound sentences, which improve sentence variety and clarity by linking related ideas and showing their relationships.

8. What is the difference between "and" and "but"?"

And" is used to connect similar ideas or add information, while "but" is used to contrast ideas or show an exception. For example, "She likes coffee, and she likes tea" vs. "She likes coffee, but she doesn't like tea."

9. What are some examples of subordinating conjunctions?

Examples of subordinating conjunctions include "after," "although," "as," "because," "before," "if," "since," "though," "unless," "until," "when," "where," and "while."

10. Can conjunctions connect more than two elements?

Yes, conjunctions can connect more than two elements in a list or series. For example, "She bought apples, oranges, and bananas" or "He can sing, dance, and play the guitar."

References

1. Azar, B. S., & Hagen, S. A. (2009). Understanding and Using English Grammar (4th ed.). Pearson Education.
2. Carter, R., & McCarthy, M. (2006). Cambridge Grammar of English: A Comprehensive Guide. Cambridge University Press.
3. Murphy, R. (2012). English Grammar in Use: A Self-study Reference and Practice Book for Intermediate Learners of English (4th ed.). Cambridge University Press.
4. Swan, M. (2005). Practical English Usage (3rd ed.). Oxford University Press.
5. Quirk, R., Greenbaum, S., Leech, G., & Svartvik, J. (1985). A Comprehensive Grammar of the English Language. Longman.