Conjunction

 

A conjunction is a part of speech that connects words, phrases, clauses, or sentences. There are three main types of conjunctions:

1. Coordinating Conjunctions

These connect words, phrases, or clauses of equal rank. The acronym FANBOYS helps remember them:

For

And

Nor

But

Or

Yet

So

Examples:

I wanted to go to the park, but it started raining.

She likes apples and oranges.

He doesn’t like coffee, nor does he drink tea.

2. Subordinating Conjunctions

These connect a dependent (subordinate) clause to an independent clause, showing a relationship like cause, time, contrast, condition, etc.

Common Subordinating Conjunctions:

Cause/Reason: because, since, as

Time: when, while, after, before, until

Condition: if, unless, though

Contrast: although, even though

Examples:

She stayed home because she was feeling sick.

I will call you after I finish my homework.

Although it was late, we continued working.

3. Correlative Conjunctions

These are pairs of conjunctions that work together to link equal elements.

Common Correlative Conjunctions:

either...or

neither...nor

not only...but also

both...and

whether...or

Examples:

Either you apologize or I will leave.

She is not only smart but also hardworking.

We can both watch a movie and go for dinner.