Conjunctions: Coordinating & Correlative
Complete guide to joining words, phrases, and clauses. Learn FANBOYS, correlative pairs, punctuation rules, and common mistakes.
Contents
What is a Conjunction?
Definition: A conjunction is a word that joins words, phrases, or clauses.
Joining words: tempting but hot cookies.
Joining phrases: across two states and around a lake.
Joining clauses: Because you didn't do your homework, you will miss recess.
Coordinating Conjunctions (FANBOYS)
Definition: A coordinating conjunction connects grammatically equal elements (words, phrases, or independent clauses). The seven are: for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so (remember FANBOYS).
| Conjunction | Purpose | Example |
|---|---|---|
| and | adds one idea to another | We need bread and milk. |
| but | shows contrast | It's small but powerful. |
| or | presents a choice | You can pay now or later. |
| nor | adds a negative idea | He didn't call, nor did he text. |
| for | explains reason | He was happy, for he had won. |
| so | shows result | I was tired, so I left early. |
| yet | indicates contrast (similar to but) | She is kind, yet strict. |
Tip: So can also function as a subordinating conjunction when meaning "so that".
Punctuating Coordinating Conjunctions
Comma before a conjunction joining two independent clauses: Each clause must be able to stand alone as a sentence.
I know I brought my pencil, but I can't find it.
Serial comma (Oxford comma): In American English, place a comma before the final conjunction in a list of three or more items.
I have English, math, and science homework.
Note: Can you start a sentence with a coordinating conjunction? Yes, for stylistic effect, but most teachers expect students to master the rule first. Professional writers often break this rule intentionally.
Correlative Conjunctions
Definition: Correlative conjunctions work in pairs to join equal grammatical elements. Common pairs: either/or, neither/nor, both/and, not only/but also, whether/or.
| Pair | Function | Example |
|---|---|---|
| both…and | adds two positive ideas | Both cats and dogs make good pets. |
| either…or | presents a choice | Either Monica will bring drinks or she will bring brownies. |
| neither…nor | adds two negative ideas | Neither the manager nor the assistant was available. |
| not only…but also | emphasizes two ideas | Not only is he a great singer, but he is also an actor. |
| whether…or | expresses alternatives | I don't know whether to go or stay. |
Parallel Structure: The same grammatical form should follow each part of the pair.
✅ You must either bring your permission slip or stay home.
❌ Either you must bring your permission slip or stay home.
Placement & Common Pitfalls
Correlative conjunctions must be placed immediately before the words they join to avoid confusion.
Confusing: It was not only a long movie but also exciting.
Better: The movie was not only long but also exciting.
Better: It was not only a long movie but also an exciting one.
Confusing: Jeremy not only won a trophy but also money.
Better: Jeremy won not only a trophy but also money.
Note on "only": Pay attention to the placement of only with correlative conjunctions. It can change meaning.
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick Comparison
Remember: Conjunctions make your writing fluid and logical. Use them to connect ideas smoothly, but avoid overusing them. Vary your sentence structures.