Conjunctions

Conjunctions are words used to connect words, phrases, or clauses in a sentence. They are classified into three main types: coordinating conjunctions, subordinating conjunctions, and correlative conjunctions. Here's an explanation of each type along with examples:

1. Coordinating Conjunctions

These conjunctions join words, phrases, or independent clauses that are of equal importance.

Mnemonic: FANBOYS

Examples:

For: I stayed home, for it was raining heavily.
And: She likes to read novels and write poetry.
Nor: He doesn't drink coffee, nor does he drink tea.
But: I wanted to go to the park, but it was closed.
Or: Would you like tea or coffee?
Yet: The journey was long, yet we enjoyed every moment.
So: She studied hard, so she passed the test.

2. Subordinating Conjunctions

These conjunctions connect an independent clause with a dependent (subordinate) clause. They indicate relationships such as cause-effect, time, condition, or contrast.

Examples by Relationship:

Time:

After, Before, When, While, Until, Since, As soon as
- Example: I will call you after I finish my homework.

Cause-Effect:

Because, Since, As
- Example: She was upset because she lost her keys.

Condition:

If, Unless, Provided that, As long as
- Example: You can go out if you finish your chores.

Contrast/Concession:

Although, Though, Even though, Whereas, While
- Example: Although it was raining, they continued playing.

Purpose:

So that, In order that
- Example: She left early so that she could catch the bus.

3. Correlative Conjunctions

These conjunctions work in pairs to join elements of equal importance.

Common Correlative Conjunctions:

Either...or
Neither...nor
Both...and
Not only...but also
Whether...or

Examples:

Either you can come with us or stay home.
She is both intelligent and hardworking.
He is not only a good teacher but also a talented writer.
Neither the manager nor the assistant could solve the issue.
We must decide whether to take the train or drive.

Other Types of Conjunctions

Conjunctive Adverbs

While not traditional conjunctions, these words connect independent clauses and show relationships like addition, contrast, or cause.
Examples:

However, Therefore, Furthermore, Meanwhile, Consequently

Example Sentence:
She was late; however, she completed her work on time.

Compound Conjunctions

These are phrases that function as conjunctions.
Examples:

As well as: She is talented as well as hardworking.
In case: Take an umbrella in case it rains.

Type of Conjunction

Example Sentence

Coordinating (FANBOYS)

He wanted to stay, but she decided to leave.

Subordinating (Cause)

She left early because she felt sick.

Subordinating (Time)

Call me when you get home.

Correlative (Both...and)

She is both kind and generous.

Conjunctive Adverb

I was tired; therefore, I went to bed early.

Compound Conjunction

We will go out as long as it stops raining.

Using Correlative Conjunctions: Multiple choice

Using Correlative Conjunctions: Fill-in-the-blank

Printable Materials

Coordinating Conjunctions Worksheet