Conjunctions

What are Conjunctions?

Conjunctions are words that link related parts of a sentence.

Conjunctions That Introduce Subordinate Clauses

There are two kinds of words that introduce subordinate clauses:

1. Subordinating conjunctions

after because in order that than whenever

although before now that though where

as even if once till whereas

as if even though rather than unless wherever

as long as if since until while

as though if only so that when

2. Relative pronouns

which what who (whose, whom)

that whatever whoever (whomever)

Conjunctions That Create Compound Sentences

There are two kinds of conjunctions that create compound sentences:

1. Coordinating conjunctions

There are only seven words in English that can join two sentences together:

for

and

nor (Just remember “FANBOYS”)

but

or

yet

so

Note: When one of these coordinating conjunctions joins two sentences, a comma must precede the conjunction.

2. Correlative conjunctions

Both . . . and

Ex: Both Tylenol and massage therapy can relieve stress headaches.

Neither . . . nor

Ex: The procedure requires neither heat application nor a cold compress.

Not only . . . but also

Ex: The migraine sufferer learns not only to recognize the causes of headaches but also to control those causes.

Either . . . or

Ex: Either the safety kit in the bathroom or the one in the kitchen will have the medicine you need.

Not . . . but

Ex: It is not a sales invoice but a shipping invoice.

(Note: Usage is divided on whether or not one should place a comma before but in structures such as this one. We will use a comma before but only when but joins two independent clauses.)

Whether . . . or

Ex: Whether you attend the meeting or not will determine your participation in the program.

As . . . as

Ex: She is as bright as her older sister.

Remember:

Conjunctions are words that introduce subordinate clauses or create compound sentences.