Conjunctions connect words, phrases and clauses. They allow us to express relationships between ideas and create longer, clearer sentences.
What is a conjunction?
A conjunction is a word used to connect words, phrases or clauses.
Common conjunctions include:
- and
- but
- or
- because
- so
- although
- if
- when
- while
- unless
Coordinating conjunctions
The main coordinating conjunctions are often remembered using FANBOYS:
- for
- and
- nor
- but
- or
- yet
- so
Examples:
I wanted to go, but I was busy.
She studied hard, so she passed the examination.
Would you like tea or coffee?
Subordinating conjunctions
These introduce dependent clauses.
Examples include:
- because
- although
- if
- when
- while
- before
- after
- unless
- since
Examples:
I stayed home because I was tired.
Although it was raining, we went outside.
If you study, you can improve.
Correlative conjunctions
These work in pairs.
Examples:
- either…or
- neither…nor
- both…and
- not only…but also
Examples:
You can choose either tea or coffee.
She speaks both English and Swahili.
Common mistakes
Incorrect: Although it was raining but we went out.
Correct: Although it was raining, we went out.
Or:
It was raining, but we went out.
Incorrect: Because I was tired, so I went home.
Correct: Because I was tired, I went home.