A conjunction is a word used to join words, phrases, or clauses. It helps in making our sentences smooth, clear, and meaningful. Without conjunctions, our language would sound broken and disconnected.

There are three main types of conjunctions:

1. Coordinating Conjunctions

2. Subordinating Conjunctions

3. Correlative Conjunctions

1. Coordinating Conjunctions

Coordinating conjunctions join two or more words, phrases, or independent clauses of equal importance.

There are only seven coordinating conjunctions. An easy way to remember them is by using the acronym FANBOYS:

• F – For

• A – And

• N – Nor

• B – But

• O – Or

• Y – Yet

• S – So

 Examples:

• I like tea and coffee. (joining two words)

• She wanted to go out, but it was raining. (joining two clauses)

• You can eat now, or wait until dinner.

 Use Cases:

• And: Adds information
  → He is smart and kind.

• But: Shows contrast
  → She is young but experienced.

• So: Shows result
  → He studied hard, so he passed.

2. Subordinating Conjunctions

Subordinating conjunctions connect a dependent clause (one that cannot stand alone) with an independent clause. They show a relationship such as cause and effect, time, condition, contrast, or purpose.

 Common subordinating conjunctions:

• Because, Although, Since, If, Unless, While, After, Before, When, Even though, Until

 Examples:

• Because it was raining, we stayed home.

• I’ll call you when I reach.

• Although he was tired, he kept working.

 Key Points:

• They answer questions like:

  • Why? (because, since)

  • When? (after, before, until)

  • Under what condition? (if, unless)

  • In spite of what? (although, even though)

Subordinating conjunctions always introduce the dependent clause.

3. Correlative Conjunctions

Correlative conjunctions are pairs of conjunctions that work together to connect words or phrases of equal importance.

 Common pairs:

• Either…or

• Neither…nor

• Both…and

• Not only…but also

• Whether…or

 Examples:

• Either you start now or miss the chance.

• She is both talented and humble.

• Not only is he rich, but also generous.

 Key Rule:

• Make sure the grammatical structure after each part of the pair is the same.
   Wrong: Either he will dance or singing.
   Right: Either he will dance or sing.

Practice Tip:

To master conjunctions, try combining short sentences using each type. Example:

• I was tired. I kept walking.
  → Although I was tired, I kept walking.