What are Conjunctions?

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May 16, 2024

what is a conjunction

The Connectors of Communication: In A Nutshell, Knowing What Is a Conjunction?

Visualize a sentence as a train. Verbs are the machine that makes the sentence and propels it forward. The nouns are passengers, including messages that cannot go on without either. However, what joins these cars and guarantees a pleasant ride? Up to this point, the role of conjunctions, the unsung heroes of grammar, has been presented, as the glue that sticks words, phrases, and even clauses together and forms complete and coherent sentences.

What Is a Conjunction?

In simpler terms, a conjunction definition boils down to this: it's a word that connects grammatical units within a sentence. These tiny words act like bridges, allowing us to combine ideas and create more complex sentences.

There are two main types of conjunctions, each playing a distinct role: Following are the conjunction examples:

Coordinating Conjunctions: These workhorses connect words, phrases, or even independent clauses (complete sentences) that hold equal grammatical weight. Think of them as democratic connectors. Common coordinating conjunctions include FANBOYS: For, And, Nor, But, Or, Yet, and So.
- conjunction examples: I enjoy reading and writing. (Connects verbs)
- conjunction examples: The movie was long, but it was worth watching. (Connects independent clauses)
Subordinating Conjunctions: These powerful players introduce dependent clauses (incomplete sentences) that rely on the main clause for meaning. They establish a hierarchical relationship between the clauses, showing cause, effect, time, or contrast.
- conjunction examples: Because it was raining, we stayed home. (Shows cause)
- conjunction examples: We went for a walk although it was hot. (Shows contrast)

A conjunction is just a word that means "and", "but", or "or".

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Beyond these main categories, there are other conjunctions that add flavor to your writing:

Correlative Conjunctions: They are often two words combined that have the same strength of influence, and give special importance to statements that follow. For example, the sentences can be more clear and more precise- as a result of using such expressions as "either/or", "neither/nor", "both/and", "not only/but also. "

Example: Not only did she take the first place but also, she also broke the world record.

Conjunctions are more than just grammatical necessities; they offer a wealth of benefits for your writing:

Sentence Variety: With conjunctions you can ensure that your sentences flow smoothly by lining the version of vaguely short sentences.
Clear Relationships: They enrich the connections between the thoughts, so that the writing is more like a continuous stream.
Emphasis and Nuance: Differential conjunctions can indicate a detail, another component, or a relationship between two entities.

Conquering Conjunction Conundrums

While conjunctions are fantastic tools, there are some things to keep in mind:

Comma Usage: Functioning as coordinators of independent clauses, the comma before the conjunction is often required. (e. g. Then, I went to the store, but they did not have milk.
Subordinating Clause Placement: Placement of a dependent clause would be decisive because these dependents have a bearing on how the sentence means. (e. g., Getting the right to study hard, I get the success. vs. I failed the exam, but I did my best

Mastering the Art of Conjunctions

Conjunctions may seem small, but they hold immense power in shaping clear and effective communication. However, navigating the nuances of grammar can sometimes be tricky. This is where 98thPercentile steps in.

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FAQs

Q1: Is a sentence allowed to begin with a conjunction?

Ans: Perhaps, but it could sound less formal in many cases. For instance, "Then, we went to the park”.

Q2: What is the difference between the coordinating conjunction and the subordinating conjunction?

Ans: Coordinating conjunctions bind units of the same weight while subordinating conjunctions come before dependent clauses.

Q3: Do the conjunctions vary with the ones we have mentioned? Do they add somewhere?

Ans: Using correlative conjunctions sometimes results in parallel units where clauses are built to be equally strong.

Q4: Does it matter which conjunction is used when the verb tense is already affected?

Ans: Not at all, this is not correct either. Conjunctions used in a sentence have nothing to do with the verb tense.

Q5: What are the ways that 98thPercentile helps to improve a learner’s abilities?
Ans: Sign up for 2 weeks of FREE Trial classes and learn for yourself. Click here.