What are conjunctions? Definition and Types

Conjunctions are important parts of speech that connect words, phrases, or clauses in a sentence. They help to show relationships between different elements and make the overall structure of the sentence more coherent.

Types of Conjunctions:

1. Coordinating Conjunctions:
   • Coordinating conjunctions connect words, phrases, or clauses that are similar in structure.
   • Examples: and, but, or, so, for, nor, yet
2. Subordinating Conjunctions:
   • Subordinating conjunctions introduce dependent (subordinate) clauses that cannot stand alone as complete sentences.
   • Examples: although, because, while, since, if, unless
3. Correlative Conjunctions:
   • Correlative conjunctions are used in pairs to connect balanced parts of a sentence.
   • Examples: either…or, neither…nor, both…and, not only…but also
4. Conjunctive Adverbs:
   • While not strictly conjunctions, conjunctive adverbs function similarly by connecting independent clauses and showing relationships between them.
   • Examples: however, therefore, furthermore, nevertheless
5. Relative Pronouns:
   • Again, not exactly conjunctions, but relative pronouns like “who,” “which,” and “that” introduce relative (adjective) clauses, which provide more information about a noun.

Conjunctions play a crucial role in creating logical connections between different parts of a sentence. They help to establish the flow and coherence of language, enabling writers and speakers to express complex ideas and relationships effectively.