Conjunctions at a glance
short and clear
Read the rule, inspect the example, then check yourself.
Overview
Conjunctions connect ideas and show how they relate.
Coordinating conjunctions join equal parts
Use and, but, or, nor, for, so, and yet to connect equal words, phrases, or clauses.
- short and clear
- I tried, but I failed.
Main Rules
Choose conjunctions by meaning: addition, contrast, choice, reason, result, time, or condition.
Subordinating conjunctions create dependent clauses
Because, although, if, when, while, before, and after introduce clauses that depend on a main clause.
- Because it was late, we stopped.
- I will call you when I arrive.
Use a comma when the dependent clause comes first
The comma helps mark the end of the opening dependent clause.
- If you need help, ask me.
- Ask me if you need help.
Patterns
Some conjunctions come in pairs.
Conjunction patterns
| Pattern | Meaning | Example |
|---|---|---|
| both ... and | two things together | Both grammar and vocabulary matter. |
| either ... or | one of two choices | Use either a noun or a pronoun. |
| neither ... nor | not this and not that | Neither answer nor explanation is correct. |
| not only ... but also | added emphasis | She not only listened but also took notes. |
Examples
Good conjunctions make the logic of a sentence clear.
I know the rule, but I need more practice.
But shows contrast.
We stayed home because it was raining.
Because gives the reason.
Although the topic is difficult, the examples are clear.
Although introduces contrast.
Common Mistakes
Do not combine conjunctions that do the same job.
Although it was late, but we continued.
Although it was late, we continued.
Although already marks contrast, so but is not needed.
Because I was tired, so I stopped.
Because I was tired, I stopped.
Because and so should not both connect the same two clauses.