A conjunction is a word or a set of words that links words, groups, or clauses together. There are coordinating conjunctions like ‘and’ and ‘but,’ as well as subordinating conjunctions like ‘although,’ ‘because,’ and ‘when’ in English.
Conjunction of several types:
Conjunctions that work together. A coordinating conjunction joins two or more grammatical elements that are of equal value. In practice, a coordinating conjunction frequently connects the identical pieces of speech, such as a verb with another verb. Consider the following scenario:
Everyone joined in on the singing and dancing.
Coordinating conjunctions, on the other hand, are the conjunctions that link independent clauses together. A phrase that can stand alone as a complete sentence is known as an independent clause. Take a look at the two clauses below:
It’s possible he went to the park.
Both of these are entire phrases. To combine them into one statement, we can employ a coordinating conjunction. A comma will always be followed by the coordinating conjunction:
He might have gone to the park or he could have come home. (Or join two sentences together.)
Conjunctions that serve as subordinators
A subordinating conjunction joins a subordinate clause (also known as a dependent clause) with an independent clause. A subordinate clause, unlike an independent clause, cannot stand alone as a complete sentence. Consider the following scenario:
where buffalo graze (not a complete sentence)
A subordinating conjunction, on the other hand, can be used to link a subordinate sentence to an independent phrase. Subordinating conjunctions mainly be seen in the beginning or at the middle of a sentence:
We remain indoors and watch movies whenever it rains.
When it rains, we remain inside and watch movies.
Conjunctions that are related to each other
Correlative conjunctions are two conjunctions that complement each other. Both… and, either… or, neither… nor, and rather… Here are some examples of correlative conjunctions. Each pair of correlative conjunctions has a unique purpose. Listed below are a few examples:
I’m looking for either red or pink flowers. (Gives two alternatives)
She prefers to play outside rather than sit in the house. (Indicates a recommended option)
The dog was like the size of a horse! (Creates a metaphor)
How well do you understand prepositions? Find out more about them here.
The rules of conjunction apply.
Conjunctions aren’t difficult to utilise appropriately for the most part. However, there are some guidelines to follow.
It’s a common belief that coordinating conjunctions like and or but can’t be used to start a sentence. However, this “law” is frequently disregarded, and starting a phrase with a coordinating conjunction is completely appropriate. All you have to do now is make sure your sentences are grammatically correct. Consider the following scenario:
You could believe that we’ve learned all there is to know about dinosaurs. But you’d be mistaken.
The Grinch was not a fan of Christmas trees. Or anything else related to the holiday season.
Comma Usage:
The comma is frequently the punctuation mark that creates the most confusion. The following are the general guidelines for using commas with conjunctions:
- Coordinating conjunctions: When combining independent sentences or making a list, use a comma before If you’re connecting things that aren’t separate clauses, don’t use a comma:
Clause of independence: I adore my sister, and she adores me. (comma)
I’ll have vanilla, chocolate, or strawberry ice cream on my list. (comma)
This sweater is hot and irritating, but it’s not an independent clause. (Without the comma)
- Subordinating conjunctions: Unless a subordinating phrase is used at the beginning of a sentence, there is no need for a comma. If that’s the case, add a comma at the end of the subordinate clause:
No comma: I breezed through the exam because I studied diligently.
Comma: I breezed through the test since I studied so diligently.
- Correlative conjunctions: Correlative conjunctions usually do not require a comma. It’s possible that they’ll appear near a is being utilised for something else, such splitting a modifier. As an example,
I chatted with both Abby and Will, who had no idea what had happened. Combining distinct sorts of conjunctions
It is absolutely acceptable to combine all of the different sorts of conjunctions in a one statement. Just remember that coordinating conjunctions link independent clauses together, while subordinating conjunctions link subordinate clauses to independent ones. Even though sentences might get very long and complex at times, you must remember when and where to employ commas
Here’s a complex statement that incorporates all three sorts of conjunctions. A comma is only used in the coordinating conjunction that unites two separate clauses.
Using a comma as an example:
She’s preparing a meal of chicken, potatoes, corn, and carrots.
Not only but also is a form of conjunction. combination of correlatives, not only is it a correlative conjunction, but it’s also a correlated conjunction. Correlative conjunctions are a type of conjunction that joins or connects two equally important words, phrases, or clauses.
Conclusion:
A conjunction is a word or a set of words that links words, groups, or clauses together. There are coordinating conjunctions like ‘and’ and ‘but,’ as well as subordinating conjunctions like ‘although,’ ‘because,’ and ‘when’ in English. One must be thorough with the rules and functionalities of the conjunctions to be able to use them appropriately.