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Join us to explore the bonding agents of the English language: conjunctions! These words pack a punch as they link our thoughts, ideas, and sentences. Whether you’re just starting to learn English or looking to polish your skills, understanding conjunctions is key to building clear and connected sentences. Today, we’ll dive into the three main types of conjunctions: coordinating, subordinating, and correlative. Let’s make learning fun and easy, right here in your favourite English class in London!
Coordinating conjunctions are like the best teammates; they connect words, phrases, or clauses that are equally important in a sentence. Remember the acronym FANBOYS: For, And, Nor, But, Or, Yet, So. These are your go-to words for making simple yet powerful connections.
Examples:
We went to the beach, for it was a sunny day.
She bought apples and oranges from the market.
He could not find his keys, nor could he remember where he placed them.
I wanted to stay out late, but I had to get up early for work.
Do you want tea or coffee?
She was very tired, yet she finished her assignment.
It started raining, so we went inside.
Tip: Use a comma before the conjunction when connecting two independent clauses (as in some of the examples above).
Subordinating conjunctions are the bosses of the sentence world. They kick in when one idea depends on another. Words like because, although, since, and if introduce these dependent clauses, setting the stage for a main clause to shine.
Examples:
She took her umbrella because it looked like rain.
Although he studied very hard, he didn’t pass the exam.
Since we have some time, let’s go for a walk.
If you save your money, you can buy a new bike.
While I cook, can you help me by setting the table?
After the movie ended, we went to a cafe.
She checks her emails before she starts her day.
Tip: No comma is needed if the subordinate clause comes after the main clause. But if it comes before, put a comma after the subordinate clause.
Correlative conjunctions work in pairs to balance elements in a sentence, making them equally important. Some of these pairs include either…or, neither…nor, not only…but also.
Examples:
You can either attend the English courses in London or study online.
She neither called nor texted me back.
He is not only intelligent but also very charming.
We will need both eggs and flour for this recipe.
I don’t know whether to laugh or cry.
Just as the sun sets, so does the moon rise
Tip: Be sure to use parallel structure (the same form of words) after both parts of the correlative conjunctions to keep your sentence smooth and balanced.
Understanding and using conjunctions correctly can dramatically improve your English writing and speaking skills. They help you build more complex, interesting sentences and show sophisticated command of the language. This is especially important in academic or professional settings where ideas must be presented clearly and logically.
To see how conjunctions can transform your writing, let’s play with a sentence without and then with conjunctions:
Without Conjunctions: I went home. I was tired.
With Conjunctions: I went home because I was tired.
See the difference? The second sentence flows better and gives more information in an effective way.
Conjunctions might seem like small words, but they are mighty in their ability to connect and clarify. Whether chatting with friends, writing an email, or preparing for an exam, these handy tools will make your English communication smoother and more effective. Keep practising, keep learning, and remember, every conjunction you master brings you one step closer to fluency in English!
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