Summary Tradisional | Conjunctions

Contextualization

Conjunctions are key words that help tie our sentences together. They link words, phrases, clauses, and ideas, making our communication smoother and more coherent. In English, conjunctions are crucial because they let us create well-structured and complex sentences—an essential skill for clear and effective communication, whether writing or speaking.

When learning English here in Canada, grasping how to use conjunctions properly is vital for boosting your language skills. Conjunctions fall into three main categories: coordinating conjunctions, which join elements of equal weight; subordinating conjunctions, which attach a dependent clause to a main clause; and correlating conjunctions, which work in pairs to link equivalent sentence elements. Mastering these will help learners build richer, more varied sentences and become more proficient overall.

To Remember!

Coordinating Conjunctions

Coordinating conjunctions connect words, phrases, or clauses that hold equal importance within a sentence. They’re fundamental in forming compound sentences, ensuring that related ideas are expressed clearly. In English, the seven primary coordinating conjunctions are: 'and', 'but', 'or', 'nor', 'for', 'so', and 'yet'.

For example, 'and' is commonly used to add another idea: 'I enjoy hockey and curling.' Here, 'and' seamlessly connects two interests. 'But' introduces a contrast, as in, 'I planned to visit the farmers’ market, but it began to rain.' In this instance, 'but' highlights the unexpected change in plans.

Similarly, 'or' provides alternatives—'Would you like tea or coffee?'—while 'nor' is used to continue a negative idea, such as in 'He didn’t call, nor did he drop by.'

The remaining conjunctions ('for', 'so', and 'yet') also serve distinct functions. 'For' explains a reason, 'so' indicates a result, and 'yet' introduces a contrast in a slightly more formal tone. Each plays an important role in building compound, cohesive sentences.

• Joins words, phrases, or clauses of equal importance.

• Primary conjunctions include: 'and', 'but', 'or', 'nor', 'for', 'so', 'yet'.

• Helps in forming clear and compound sentences.

Subordinating Conjunctions

Subordinating conjunctions link a dependent (subordinate) clause with a main clause, signalling that one part of the sentence relies on the other. These are key for forming complex sentences where one idea depends on another. Common examples include 'because', 'although', 'since', 'unless', 'if', 'when', and 'while'.

Take 'because' for instance: in the sentence 'She stayed home because she wasn’t feeling well,' the reason for staying home is clearly explained. 'Although' offers a contrast, as in 'Although it was chilly, we went out for a run.'

When expressing conditions, 'if' is your go-to, as in 'If it snows, we’ll reschedule the event.' 'When' and 'while' often help situate actions in time, such as in 'When I arrived, the meeting had just started,' or 'She read a book while waiting for the bus.'

These words are indispensable for conveying cause and effect, conditions, and time-related relationships clearly in your writing and conversation.

• Links a dependent clause to a main clause.

• Shows relationships where one idea hinges on another.

• Key conjunctions include: 'because', 'although', 'since', 'unless', 'if', 'when', 'while'.

Correlating Conjunctions

Correlating conjunctions come in pairs to connect sentence elements of a similar kind. They ensure that the parts of a sentence stand on equal footing. Common pairs include 'either...or', 'neither...nor', 'both...and', and 'not only...but also'.

For example, 'either...or' works well when presenting two choices, as in 'You can either call me or email me.' In contrast, 'neither...nor' negates two options simultaneously: 'He neither called nor emailed.'

'Both...and' helps combine two positive attributes, such as in 'She is both creative and diligent.' Meanwhile, 'not only...but also' adds emphasis by linking two complementary ideas, like 'She is not only smart but also very dedicated.'

These pairings are effective tools for crafting balanced and clear sentences, making your ideas easier to follow.

• Works in pairs to connect equivalent sentence elements.

• Common pairs: 'either...or', 'neither...nor', 'both...and', 'not only...but also'.

• Enhances sentence balance and clarity by emphasizing equal importance.

Practical Examples

Using conjunctions in real-life examples is a great way to understand their proper application. For instance, a sentence using a coordinating conjunction might be: 'I wanted to go for a walk, but it started rainin’' (a nod to a more casual, conversational tone). Here, 'but' links a plan with an unexpected change. Similarly, a sentence with a subordinating conjunction could be: 'She stayed home because she wasn’t feeling well,' clearly showing the cause and effect relationship.

For correlating conjunctions, consider: 'Either you can call me, or I’ll get in touch with you.' This structure offers two equivalent choices, while 'She is both kind and smart' neatly combines two qualities.

These examples show how conjunctions help create cohesive and structured sentences. Practicing these can really build confidence and fluency in using English, whether in academic settings or everyday conversation.

• Real-life examples make it easier to grasp the correct use of conjunctions.

• Examples illustrate how conjunctions connect ideas effectively.

• Regular practice with these examples boosts proper usage in writing and speaking.

Key Terms

• Coordinating Conjunctions: Join words, phrases, or clauses of equal importance.

• Subordinating Conjunctions: Connect a dependent clause to a main clause, showing a relationship of dependence.

• Correlating Conjunctions: Work in pairs to link equivalent elements in a sentence.

• Complex Sentences: Sentences that include a main clause along with one or more subordinate clauses.

• Compound Sentences: Sentences that consist of two or more coordinated clauses.

• Connectivity: The role of conjunctions in linking ideas to create cohesive communication.

Important Conclusions

Conjunctions play an essential role in constructing clear and coherent sentences. By categorizing them as coordinating, subordinating, or correlating, we can appreciate how each group contributes to forming both complex and compound sentences.

A solid understanding and effective use of conjunctions are crucial in developing English language proficiency—whether you're preparing for professional settings, academic work, or exams like TOEFL and IELTS. They allow you to express cause and effect, conditions, and time in a clear and connected manner.

Building your skills with conjunctions can significantly improve both your written and oral communication. I encourage students to engage with practical examples, experiment with creating their own sentences, and continuously review these concepts to boost their linguistic competence.

Study Tips

• Review the in-class examples and try crafting your own sentences using a variety of conjunctions.

• Read different texts—articles, short stories, or essays—and highlight the conjunctions you find. Then, try to determine if they’re coordinating, subordinating, or correlating.

• Work on grammar exercises focused on conjunctions from your textbooks or trusted online resources to reinforce your understanding.