Types of Conjunctions as Part of Speech

Types of Conjunctions as Part of Speech

1. Coordinating Conjunctions:

Coordinating conjunctions join words, phrases, and independent clauses of equal grammatical rank in a sentence. These include and, but, or, yet, for, so, nor, etc.

Examples:

• Are you an atheist or an agnostic? (‘Or’ joins individual words.)
• I will have a mango and a banana. (‘And’ joins individual words.)
• I like the actor’s performance on stage but dislike his movies. (‘But’ joins two phrases.)
• Maya has been appreciated for both her spontaneity and the ability to tackle tough situations. (‘And’ joins two phrases.)
• I went to the market, but I did not purchase vegetables. (‘But’ joins two independent clauses.)
• It was already dark, so I took the cab. (‘So’ joins two independent clauses.)

2. Subordinating Conjunctions:

Subordinating conjunctions join independent and dependent clauses. Some of these are because, since, as, although, though, while, in spite of, whereas, etc. Often a subordinating conjunction indicates a cause-and-effect relationship or a contrast.

Examples:

• Since I was not at home, I couldn’t cook food.
• Although you have passed the exam, there is room for improvement.
• I went to the doctor in spite of being fit.

3. Correlative Conjunctions:

Correlative
conjunctions are pairs of conjunctions that work together to show the
relationship between two things in a sentence. Some of the most common
correlative conjunctions are either… or, neither… nor, not only… but also, no sooner… than, hardly… when, etc.

Examples:

• I neither like capsicum nor tomatoes in my soup.
• You can either sign the document or leave immediately.
• Not only did he pass the exam, but also topped it.
• Whether you like it or not, we will attend the gathering this Sunday.
• You are both innocent and cute.