Conjunctions

A conjunction joins words or groups of words in a sentence.

There are three types of conjunctions, today we look at two, coordinating and correlative.

1 Coordinating conjunctions – these connect words, phrases or clauses that are independent or equal; and, but, so, for, yet, not.

2 Correlative conjunctions – these are always used in pairs; both/and, either/or, neither/nor, not only/but also

Coordinating conjunctions

And – in addition to
We went skiing and scuba diving in Sicily.

But – connects to opposite things.
I love comedy films but my wife loves drama.

Or – a choice between two things
You can have pasta or pizza.

So – a result of something mentioned first
I had a bad experience in Barcelona, so I won’t be going there again.

For – because
He received a new bike from his parents for his birthday.

Yet – in contrast
She studied hard yet she didn’t pass the final exam.

Correlative conjunctions

Both/and
He came first in both the 100 and 200 meter sprints.

Either/or
We can meet either on Monday or on Tuesday.

Neither/nor
She likes neither the red nor the blue shoes.

Not only/but also
He received a good report not only from his colleagues but also his managers as well.

Lesson by Tristan, teacher at EC Malta English school

Now choose the correct conjunction for the following:

• 1) _ John _ Peter like Sarah's cooking.
  
  Neither/nor
  Both/or
  Either/nor
  
  
• 2) We could go swimming _ sightseeing tomorrow.
  
  but
  for
  or
  
  
• 3) I have known Danny for over ten years, _ I still don't understand him sometimes.
  
  and
  yet
  so
  
  
• 4) _ coffee _ tea will be great. I'll drink both.
  
  Either/or
  Both/and
  Neither/nor
  
  
• 5) It was raining _ I had to go out to do some errands.
  
  and
  so
  but
  
  
• 6) I need to find the right present _ David's fortieth birthday.
  
  for
  and
  with
  
  
• 7) Tess didn't have Jack's number _ she called me instead.
  
  so
  and
  but