Cohesive Devices - Exercise

 

Conjunctions: The Linking Words of English

Conjunctions are like the glue that holds sentences together. They join words, phrases, or clauses, helping us express ideas and relationships between them. In this article, we'll explore the world of conjunctions, understanding their different types and how they enable us to communicate more effectively.

Coordinating Conjunctions

Coordinating conjunctions connect words, phrases, or independent clauses that are of equal importance. There are seven common coordinating conjunctions, often remembered with the acronym FANBOYS:

1. for - I brought my umbrella, for it might rain.
2. and - She likes to read and write.
3. nor - Neither he nor she could solve the puzzle.
4. but - He wanted to go, but he had to stay home.
5. or - Would you like tea or coffee?
6. yet - It's raining, yet we're going for a walk.
7. so - She studied hard, so she passed the exam.

Coordinating conjunctions help create compound sentences by connecting related ideas.

Subordinating Conjunctions

Subordinating conjunctions link an independent clause (a complete thought) with a dependent clause (an incomplete thought). They show the relationship between the two clauses. Common subordinating conjunctions include:

1. because - We went inside because it started to rain.
2. if - If you study, you will do well.
3. while - She read a book while waiting for the bus.
4. although - Although it was cold, they went for a swim.
5. since - He has been happy since he got a puppy.
6. when - I'll call you when I get home.

Subordinating conjunctions help create complex sentences by showing the relationship between the ideas in the main and dependent clauses.

 

Correlative Conjunctions

Correlative conjunctions work in pairs to connect elements in a sentence. Common pairs include:

1. either...or - You can have either tea or coffee.
2. both...and - He is both intelligent and hardworking.
3. neither...nor - Neither the cat nor the dog was home.
4. not only...but also - She is not only talented but also dedicated.
5. whether...or - I don't know whether to laugh or cry.

Correlative conjunctions ensure balance and clarity in sentences by connecting similar items or ideas.

Conjunctive Adverbs

Conjunctive adverbs are used to connect independent clauses and show relationships such as cause and effect, contrast, or sequence. Common conjunctive adverbs include:

1. therefore - She studied hard; therefore, she passed the exam.
2. however - I wanted to go; however, I had to stay home.
3. meanwhile - She was at work; meanwhile, he was at the park.
4. consequently - He missed the bus; consequently, he was late for school.

Conjunctive adverbs provide transitions between ideas in sentences.

Conjunctions are the connectors that make our sentences flow smoothly, showing the relationships between words, phrases, and clauses. By using different types of conjunctions, we can create sentences that are clear, coherent, and well-structured, helping us communicate our ideas effectively. So, embrace the power of conjunctions, and watch as your sentences become more organized and compelling!