English Grammar/Basic Parts of Speech/Conjunctions

A conjunction is a word or words used to show the relationship between one notion and another notion. There are two main types of conjunction: the coordinative conjunction, which joins phrases of equal importance and rank, and the subordinative conjunction, which joins a phrase with another phrase that is dependent on it.

Coordinative Conjunctions

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A coordinative conjunction joins two sentences together that do not rely on each other for meaning. We can split the coordinative conjunctions into four smaller groups: the cumulative, the alternative, the adversative, and the illative.

Cumulative

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A cumulative conjunction is used to add one thought to another. Examples of cumulative conjunctions include

  • and
  • both...and
  • not only
  • but also
  • as well as

Alternative

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Used to indicate a choice between one notion and another. For example:

  • or
  • either...or
  • else
  • otherwise
  • neither...nor

Adversative

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Used to contrast one notion and another.

  • but
  • yet
  • however
  • nonetheless
  • despite
  • still

Illative

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These show that one notion is implied, inferred or proved by another.

  • then
  • thus
  • therefore
  • so
  • for

Subordinating conjunctions

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Subordinating conjunctions express relationships of time, manner, cause or reason, comparison, condition, or purpose. They are used to introduce subordinate clauses that are not complete

Conjunctive adverbs

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