What Are Conjunctions? Definition, Types, Rules, and Examples

Good writing flows, and much of that flow comes from tiny words that join ideas smoothly. These words are called conjunctions. They connect words, phrases, or clauses so that thoughts link naturally instead of feeling broken or abrupt.

Consider the difference:

• I wanted to go out. It was raining.
• I wanted to go out, but it was raining.

That small word but changes everything. It bridges two ideas and shows contrast. Conjunctions do this constantly in English, helping us express relationships like addition, contrast, cause, or choice in a single sentence.

What Is a Conjunction?

A conjunction is an important part of speech that connects two or more words, phrases, or clauses within a sentence. It acts like a grammatical bridge, showing how one idea relates to another—whether they agree, contrast, depend, or add meaning to each other. Common conjunction examples: and, but, or, so, for, yet …

Conjunctions can link:

• Words: cold and windy
• Phrases: at home or at work
• Clauses: She stayed inside because it was snowing.

Conjunctions may be short, but they do heavy lifting in every sentence you speak or write. They help your sentences sound natural, logical, and connected. Without them, writing or speech can feel disjointed or mechanical.

Compare these two versions:

• I finished my work. I went for a walk. It started to rain.
• I finished my work and went for a walk, but it started to rain.

The second version feels smoother because “and” adds a new action, while “but” introduces contrast—creating rhythm and meaning.

Conjunctions show relationships between ideas in different ways:

• Addition: She sings and plays the guitar.
• Contrast: He tried hard, yet he failed.
• Reason: We stayed inside because it was cold.
• Choice: You can have coffee or tea.

In short, a conjunction’s job is simple but powerful: it keeps sentences clear, cohesive, and easy to follow.

List of Conjunctions

Here’s a list of common conjunctions in English:

Types of Conjunctions

All conjunctions connect ideas, but they don’t all work the same way. English has three main kinds of conjunctions: coordinating, subordinating, and correlative conjunctions. Each linking ideas in a slightly different relationship. Understanding these helps you decide how to join thoughts logically and clearly.

Coordinating Conjunctions

A coordinating conjunction joins words, phrases, or clauses of equal importance. They balance two ideas, like equal partners in a sentence. The seven coordinating conjunctions are easy to remember with the acronym FANBOYS:
For, And, Nor, But, Or, Yet, So

Examples:

• She wanted to visit Paris, but her flight was canceled.
• I can cook dinner or order food tonight.
• He was tired, yet determined to continue.

These conjunctions can also connect single words (red and blue), short phrases (at home or at work), or full clauses (I tried, but it was too late).

Tip: When joining two independent clauses, place a comma before the conjunction.

Subordinating Conjunctions

A subordinating conjunction links a dependent clause (one that can’t stand alone) to an independent clause (a complete thought). It shows the relationship between the two, such as cause, time, condition, or contrast.

Common subordinating conjunctions: because, although, since, while, when, if, unless, until, whereas, even though

Examples:

• I left early because I wasn’t feeling well.
• She stayed calm although the news was shocking.
• We’ll start the meeting when everyone arrives.

Tip: If the dependent clause comes first, use a comma before the main clause.
Although it was late, we kept working.

Correlative Conjunctions

Correlative conjunctions come in pairs and work together to join equal grammatical elements. They create balance and rhythm in writing, emphasizing choices or relationships between ideas.

Common correlative conjunctions are:
both…and, either…or, neither…nor, not only…but also, whether…or

Examples:

• She’s interested in both art and design.
• You can either stay here or come with us.
• He’s not only smart but also kind.

Tip: Keep the sentence structure parallel after each part of the pair.
Incorrect: She likes both to paint and singing.
Correct: She likes both painting and singing.

Rules & Guidelines for Using Conjunctions Correctly

Conjunctions seem simple, but using them well takes attention to structure and punctuation. A few small rules can make the difference between a smooth, clear sentence and one that feels clumsy or confusing.

Combining Two Independent Clauses

When two complete sentences express related ideas, you can join them with a coordinating conjunction such as for, and, nor, but, or, yet, or so. This combination forms a compound sentence that improves flow and avoids choppy writing.

An independent clause has its own subject and verb, so punctuation is essential when joining them. You must place a comma before the coordinating conjunction to separate the clauses.

Correct: The results arrived late, but the team stayed calm.
Incorrect: The results arrived late but the team stayed calm.

The comma helps readers see where one idea ends and the next begins. Without it, the sentence can look like a run-on.

You can also use conjunctions to show different logical relationships:

• Addition: She proofread the report, and he formatted the charts.
• Contrast: I wanted to stay longer, but the lights were turning off.
• Choice: You can send the form now, or deliver it tomorrow.
• Consequence: The store closed early, so we ordered online.

Avoid combining independent clauses without punctuation or with just a comma (known as a comma splice).

Incorrect: He forgot the keys, he waited outside.
Correct: He forgot the keys, so he waited outside.
Correct: He forgot the keys. He waited outside.

Note: When joining two clauses with a conjunction, make sure each part has correct subject–verb agreement and that any modifiers appear close to the words they describe. This prevents grammatical errors and ensures both clauses read clearly and logically.

Joining Dependent and Independent Clauses

When a sentence includes one idea that depends on another, a subordinating conjunction connects them. This creates a complex sentence, where one clause (the dependent clause) relies on the main clause to complete its meaning.

A dependent clause begins with a subordinating conjunction such as because, although, since, if, when, or unless. It cannot stand alone. The independent clause expresses the main idea. Example: I turned off my phone because I needed to focus. Here, “because I needed to focus” depends on the first part for its meaning.

• When the dependent clause comes first, use a comma. If you see any errors, let me know immediately.
• When the independent clause comes first, skip the comma. Let me know immediately if you see any errors.

Subordinating conjunctions show different logical relationships, so the one you choose changes how the ideas connect.

• Cause or Reason: The concert was postponed because of the storm.
• Time: We’ll start when the guests arrive.
• Condition: You won’t succeed unless you practice daily.
• Contrast: He kept smiling although the speech was harsh.

Coordinating Ideas with Correlative Conjunctions

The most important rule for correlative conjunctions is to keep both sides grammatically parallel. The same word form or pattern should follow each part. When structure breaks, the sentence sounds awkward or incorrect.

Incorrect: She likes both painting and to sketch.
Correct: She likes both painting and sketching.

Incorrect: He is not only intelligent but also with a kind heart.
Correct: He is not only intelligent but also kind.

Parallelism creates rhythm and balance, making your writing more natural and professional.

Use Correlatives to Show Relationships:

• Addition: The project requires both skill and patience.
• Choice: You can either book the tickets now or wait for the discount.
• Negation: She wants neither fame nor attention.
• Emphasis: He’s not only reliable but also creative.
• Uncertainty or Alternatives: They’re unsure whether to accept the offer or negotiate further.

Choosing the Right Conjunction for the Relationship

Each conjunction expresses a specific logical connection between ideas—such as addition, contrast, reason, or result.
Choosing the wrong one can distort meaning or make your writing unclear. To use them effectively, focus on what kind of relationship you want to show.

Addition

Use conjunctions like and, as well as, both…and when you’re adding information or ideas of equal weight.

Examples:

• The report was detailed and easy to follow.
• She enjoys reading as well as writing short stories.

Incorrect: She enjoys reading, but writing short stories. (The ideas add, not contrast.)

Contrast

When ideas oppose each other, use but, yet, although, though, whereas or while.

Examples:

• The team worked hard, but the results were disappointing.
• She’s confident whereas her brother is reserved.

Incorrect: She’s confident, and her brother is reserved. (This suggests addition, not contrast.)

Reason or Cause

To explain why something happens, use because, since, as, or for.

Examples:

• The concert was postponed because the sound system failed.
• She stayed late since the project deadline was near.

Incorrect: She stayed late, but the project deadline was near. (The second clause isn’t a contrast.)

Condition

To describe a possible or dependent situation, use if, unless, provided that, even if, or in case.

Examples:

• You’ll pass the test if you revise regularly.
• We’ll go out unless it starts raining.

Incorrect: We’ll go out, so it starts raining. (That doesn’t express condition.)

Result or Effect

When one action causes another, use so, therefore, consequently, thus, or hence.

Examples:

• The presentation ran over time, so the next meeting was delayed.
• The store was closed; therefore, we ordered online.

Incorrect: The store was closed, but we ordered online. (This sounds contradictory, not causal.)

Choice or Alternative

To show options or possibilities, use or, either…or, whether…or.

Examples:

• You can join the discussion or observe quietly.
• We can either extend the contract or end it this quarter.

Choosing conjunctions by relationship ensures that your meaning stays precise and your sentences remain clear.
Think about how one idea connects to another—is it adding, opposing, explaining, or resulting? The right conjunction makes that link unmistakable.

Avoiding Redundancy and Overuse

Conjunctions make writing smoother, but using too many or repeating the same kind, can weaken clarity. The goal is connection, not clutter.

Avoid Double Conjunctions

Writers sometimes use two conjunctions together when one is enough. This makes the sentence grammatically incorrect or unnecessarily wordy.

Incorrect: Because she was tired, so she went to bed early.
Correct: Because she was tired, she went to bed early.
Correct: She was tired, so she went to bed early.

In each case, either the subordinating conjunction (because) or the coordinating one (so) should be used — not both.

Don’t Chain Too Many Conjunctions

Stringing multiple conjunctions can make a sentence heavy and confusing. Break long thoughts into smaller, clearer sentences when possible.

Incorrect: He worked late and missed dinner and forgot to call and fell asleep at his desk.
Correct: He worked late and missed dinner. He forgot to call before falling asleep at his desk.

Separating ideas gives your writing rhythm and helps readers follow the flow easily.

Avoid Redundant Pairs

Sometimes, conjunctions appear where they aren’t needed. If two conjunctions serve the same role, remove one.

Incorrect: Although it was late, but she continued studying.
Correct: Although it was late, she continued studying.

Similarly, avoid unnecessary repetitions like and also or but yet.

Incorrect: He’s talented and also hardworking.
Correct: He’s talented and hardworking.

Vary Your Sentence Connections

Using the same conjunction repeatedly can make writing predictable. Instead of relying only on and or but, mix in others like although, since, yet, or because when appropriate. Variety keeps your writing clear, balanced, and engaging.

Example:

• The idea sounded good, yet it needed more planning.
• We waited quietly because the meeting had started.

Using conjunctions effectively means knowing when to connect ideas—and when to let a sentence stand on its own. Clean connections create stronger, more readable writing.

Starting a Sentence with a Conjunction (Modern Use)

Traditional grammar once discouraged beginning a sentence with conjunctions like and, but, or so. In modern English, however, doing so is perfectly acceptable—when used thoughtfully.

Starting with a conjunction helps you create a natural tone, show emphasis, or highlight contrast between ideas. It often appears in storytelling, dialogue, and professional writing that aims for clarity and flow.

Examples:

• The deadline was approaching. But the team refused to rush.
• We planned to visit early. And the view was worth it.
• She checked every detail. So the final report was flawless.

Each example feels direct and conversational without breaking grammar rules.

When to Use It

• To emphasize a shift in tone or direction
• To create smooth transitions between sentences
• To avoid repetition of sentence openings

When to Avoid It

• When every sentence starts with a conjunction, that can sound repetitive.
• When clarity suffers because the sentence depends too heavily on the previous one.

Other or Extended Types of Conjunctions

While most grammar guides focus on the three main kinds—coordinating, subordinating, and correlative—English also uses a few connectors that behave like conjunctions but don’t fit neatly into those groups.

Conjunctive Adverbs

These are adverbs that connect independent clauses and show a logical link such as contrast, cause, or sequence.
They often appear at the start of the second clause and are usually followed by a comma.

Examples:

• The hotel was fully booked; however, we found a room nearby.
• The flight was delayed; therefore, the meeting started late.
• The recipe is simple; nevertheless, the flavor is rich.

Common conjunctive adverbs include however, therefore, moreover, consequently, nevertheless, otherwise, meanwhile, and hence. They can’t join words or short phrases the way true conjunctions can; they link complete ideas and signal the relationship between them.

Tip: When joining two independent clauses, use a semicolon before the conjunctive adverb and a comma after it.

Compound or Multi-Word Conjunctions

Some connectors appear as phrases rather than single words, and they function like subordinating conjunctions.

Examples:

• The team kept working as long as the power stayed on.
• We’ll go hiking even if it rains lightly.
• You can borrow the notes so that you can revise later.

These multi-word forms show conditions, purposes, or contrasts—just as “if,” “because,” or “although” would. Treat them as one grammatical unit.

Relative Conjunctions (Overlap Cases)

Certain relative words—like where, when, and why—sometimes act like conjunctions because they introduce subordinate clauses that describe conditions or time. They blur the line between relative adverbs and subordinating conjunctions.

Examples:

• We’ll meet where the two roads intersect.
• She was happiest when she taught music full-time.

Though grammarians differ on classification, these functionally serve the same connective purpose: they join clauses while showing time, place, or reason.

Examples of Conjunctions in Sentences

Below are examples grouped by function showing how these small connectors organize thought, rhythm, and logic in everyday writing.

Coordinating Conjunctions (FANBOYS)

• For – He apologized, for he realized his tone was harsh.
• And – The sun dipped below the hills, and the streetlights flickered on.
• Nor – He didn’t call, nor did he send a message.
• But – She practiced daily, but her nerves still got the best of her.
• Or – Would you like pasta or soup tonight?
• Yet – The project looked simple, yet it took hours to finish.
• So – The train was delayed, so we took a cab instead.

Subordinating Conjunctions

• Because – The picnic was canceled because the park flooded overnight.
• Although – She smiled although she was clearly exhausted.
• While – I handled the emails while he finalized the report.
• If – We’ll start the hike if the weather stays clear.
• Since – We haven’t spoken since the conference last spring.
• Unless – You can’t access the file unless you log in first.
• When – Call me when the guests arrive.
• Before – Finish your notes before you leave the classroom.
• Even though – He joined the team even though he had little experience.

Correlative Conjunctions

• both … and – The festival attracted both tourists and locals.
• either … or – We can either paint the walls blue or keep them neutral.
• neither … nor – The witness saw neither the car nor the driver.
• not only … but also – She’s not only a brilliant coder but also a patient mentor.
• whether … or – He couldn’t decide whether to quit or take a break.

Conjunctive Adverbs (Often Mistaken for Conjunctions)

Here’s the information in point form:

• However – The seats were sold out; however, we managed to get standing tickets.
• Therefore – She studied consistently; therefore, her results improved.
• Moreover – The plan is affordable; moreover, it’s sustainable.
• Consequently – The road was icy; consequently, traffic moved slowly.
• Otherwise – Follow the safety instructions; otherwise, you could get hurt.

Mixed Examples in Context

Let’s see how different types of conjunctions work together naturally in longer sentences:

• I wanted to apply for the scholarship, but I missed the deadline because I didn’t check the notice board.
• You can either submit the report now or discuss it with the team tomorrow.
• The meeting continued although the main speaker was absent, and the discussion turned out productive.
• We decided to wait until the rain stopped and the road cleared.

Quick Reference Table of Conjunctions

FAQs About Conjunctions