Summary
In-depth Explanation
What Are Conjunctions?
Conjunctions are words like “and,” “but,” “or” and “because.” Without conjunctions, our sentences would be short and choppy. For example:
Without conjunctions: I like apples. I like oranges.
With conjunctions: I like apples and oranges.
By using conjunctions, you can express your ideas more clearly and smoothly.
Types of Conjunctions
There are three main types of conjunctions: coordinating, subordinating and correlative.
Coordinating Conjunctions
These conjunctions connect words, phrases or independent clauses that are of equal importance. Some of the main coordinating conjunctions include:
Conjunction | Usage | Example |
and | Adds one thing to another | I like pizza and pasta. |
but | Shows contrast or an exception | I like most fruit, but I don’t like grapes. |
or | Presents alternatives or choices | Do you want tea or coffee? |
so | Indicates a result or consequence | It was raining, so we stayed indoors. |
When to use commas
Use a comma before a coordinating conjunction when it connects two independent clauses (complete sentences).
I wanted to go for a walk, but it started to rain.
Subordinating Conjunctions
These conjunctions connect an independent clause with a dependent clause. They show the relationship between the two clauses, such as cause and effect, time or condition. They include:
Conjunction | Usage | Example |
because | Introduces a reason or cause | She stayed home because she was feeling sick. |
if | Introduces a condition | If you study hard, you’ll pass the exam. |
since | Shows a time reference or a reason (similar to “because”) | I haven’t seen him since he moved away. Since he didn’t study, he failed the exam. |
when | Refers to the time something happens | We’ll leave when you’re ready. |
before | Indicates that something happens earlier than another action | You must finish your homework before you play video games. |
after | Shows that one action happens following another | We can go to the park after we eat lunch. |
When to use commas
- Use a comma when the subordinating conjunction starts the sentence.
Because it was raining, we stayed indoors.
Do not use a comma when the subordinating conjunction appears in the middle of the sentence.
We stayed indoors because it was raining.
Correlative Conjunctions
These conjunctions work in pairs to join words or phrases that have equal weight in a sentence. Examples of these conjunction pairs are:
Conjunction | Usage | Example |
either…or | Presents two choices or alternatives | You can either call me or send a text. |
both…and | Emphasizes that two things are included or true | Both the teacher and the students enjoyed the lesson. |
not only…but also | Adds emphasis by showing that something is true in addition to something else | She is not only smart but also hardworking. |
whether…or | Introduces two possible options or conditions | I don’t know whether she’ll call or send a message. |
When to use commas
Generally, correlative conjunctions do not require a comma unless they connect independent clauses or if there is a need for clarity.
Both my mom and my aunt are doctors. (no comma)
Either we go now, or we wait until the rain stops. (comma with two independent clauses)
Not only did she win the race, but she also set a new record. (comma for clarity)