A conjunction is a word that connects words, phrases, or clauses.
They act like bridges between
different parts of a sentence. Here's a breakdown with examples:
1. Coordinating Conjunctions (FANBOYS): These connect elements of equal grammatical
rank (two nouns, two adjectives, two clauses, etc.).
● For: I went to the store, for I needed some milk. (Shows reason)
● And: I like apples and oranges. (Adds information)
● Nor: He doesn't like coffee, nor does he like tea. (Shows a negative alternative)
● But: She is intelligent, but she is also shy. (Shows contrast)
● Or: Do you want coffee or tea? (Shows a choice)
● Yet: He studied hard, yet he failed the test. (Shows contrast, similar to "but")
● So: I was tired, so I went to bed early. (Shows cause and effect)
2. Subordinating Conjunctions: These introduce subordinate clauses (dependent clauses)
which cannot stand alone as a sentence. They show the relationship between the subordinate
clause and the main clause.
● Time: After the movie ended, we went home. Before I leave, I will say goodbye. While I
was cooking, the phone rang. Since I moved here, I've been happier. Until the rain stops,
we will stay inside. When I finish my work, I will relax.
● Cause and Effect: Because it was raining, I took my umbrella. Since you're so tired, you
should rest. As the day went on, it got hotter.
● Contrast/Concession: Although it was difficult, she didn't give up. Even though he was
sick, he went to work. While she enjoys reading, he prefers watching movies.
● Condition: If you study hard, you will pass the test. Unless it rains, we will have a picnic.
Provided that you agree, we can go.
● Place: Where there's a will, there's a way. Wherever you go, I will follow.
3. Correlative Conjunctions: These come in pairs and connect elements of equal grammatical
rank.
● Both/and: Both my brother and my sister are doctors.
● Either/or: You can have either the cake or the ice cream.
● Neither/nor: He is neither tall nor short.
● Not only/but also: She is not only intelligent but also beautiful.
● Whether/or: I don't know whether he is coming or not.
Examples of conjunctions in sentences:
● "The dog barked, and the cat ran away." (coordinating)
● "Although she was tired, she finished the race." (subordinating)
● "She is both a talented singer and a skilled dancer." (correlative)
● "I like coffee, but I prefer tea." (coordinating)
● "Because the traffic was heavy, I was late for work." (subordinating)