Conjunctions

Conjunctions are small words that join words, phrases, or clauses. They help sentences flow and show relationships (and, but, because, etc.).

Below are the main types with simple definitions and easy examples.

1. Coordinating conjunctions

What they do: Join equal parts (two words, phrases, or sentences).

Words to remember: for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so

Examples:
I like apples and bananas.
She wanted to go, but it rained.
You can study now or later.

2. Correlative conjunctions

What they do: Work in pairs to join balanced ideas. Keep the parts after each word parallel.

Common pairs: either…or, neither…nor, both…and, not only…but (also)

Examples:
Either call me or text me.
Both Tom and Anna came.
Not only was she early, but she also helped.

3. Subordinating conjunctions

What they do: Introduce a clause that depends on (adds to) the main clause — shows time, reason, condition, or contrast.

Common words: because, if, when, while, although, since, before, after, unless

Examples:
Because it rained, we stayed inside.
If you study, you will pass.
I waved when he arrived.

4. Conjunctive adverbs (simple linking words)

What they do: Join two whole sentences and show a relationship (result, contrast, addition). Often used with a semicolon in writing, but beginners can use them to start the second sentence.

Common words: however, therefore, meanwhile, consequently, furthermore

Examples (beginner-friendly):
He forgot his book. Therefore, he went back home.
The test was hard. However, I did my best.

5. Relative words that act like conjunctions (simple)

What they do: Introduce extra information about a person or thing.
Common words: who, which, that, where, when

Examples:
The girl who smiled is my sister.
The house that we saw is blue.

Tips for beginners

• Use and to add, but to show contrast, or to give choices, and because to show reason.

  I bought apples and oranges.
  I wanted to go, but I felt too tired.
  Would you like tea or coffee?
  She stayed home because she was sick.

• Keep correlative pairs together and matching:

  either X or Y, not both X and Y.

• When a subordinating conjunction starts a sentence, follow the clause with a comma:

  If it rains , we will cancel.

• For short spoken sentences, it’s okay to use conjunctive adverbs at the start of the second sentence:

  I was tired. However, I finished my homework.

Short practice (try them)

Join with a coordinating conjunction: I like tea. I like coffee. → I like tea and coffee.
Use a subordinating conjunction: _____ you hurry, you will miss the bus. → If you hurry, you will miss the bus.
Use correlative pair: _____ you call _____ you text, let me know. → Either you call or you text, let me know.