Understanding Conjunctions

In English grammar, conjunctions are words that connect words, phrases, clauses, or sentences. They help create smooth, logical relationships between ideas and make writing more natural and coherent.

What Are Conjunctions?

A conjunction is a word or group of words used to join grammatical elements of equal or unequal importance.

Examples:

Anna and Ben are friends.
He stayed home because he was sick.
You can have tea or coffee.
Although it was raining, we went for a walk.

Types of Conjunctions

Type	Purpose	Examples
Coordinating Conjunctions	Join equal words or clauses	and, but, or, so
Subordinating Conjunctions	Introduce dependent clauses	because, although, if, when
Correlative Conjunctions	Work in pairs	either...or, both...and

Coordinating Conjunctions

These conjunctions connect words, phrases, or independent clauses of equal importance.

She likes coffee and tea.
He was tired, but he finished the project.
We can travel by train or by bus.

Subordinating Conjunctions

Subordinating conjunctions introduce dependent clauses and show relationships such as time, reason, or condition.

I stayed home because it was raining.
Although she was tired, she continued working.
Call me when you arrive.

Correlative Conjunctions

Correlative conjunctions work in pairs to connect similar elements.

Both my brother and my sister speak English.
Either you apologize or you leave.
Neither the manager nor the staff agreed.

Using Commas With Conjunctions

When two independent clauses are joined by a coordinating conjunction, a comma is usually used before the conjunction.

She wanted to go, but she was too busy.
It was late, so we went home.

Common Mistakes With Conjunctions

Incorrect	Correct
Because it was raining. We stayed inside.	Because it was raining, we stayed inside.
Either you study and you fail.	Either you study or you fail.
She is smart but also kind.	She is smart and kind.

Exercises and Practice

Choose the correct conjunction:

I stayed home _____ I was sick. (because / and)
Would you like tea _____ coffee? (or / because)
She was tired, _____ she finished the race. (but / if)
_____ it rains, we will stay inside. (If / And)

Understanding conjunctions helps learners connect ideas clearly and create more natural, well-structured English sentences.