Conjunctions in English
The Secret Glue That Holds Sentences Together - And Your Exam Score
What are Conjunctions?
Conjunctions are essential parts of speech that connect words, phrases, or clauses within a sentence, enabling smoother and more cohesive communication. They serve as linguistic glue, ensuring that ideas flow logically and coherently. Conjunctions are typically divided into three main categories: coordinating, subordinating, and correlative.
Coordinating conjunctions link elements of equal importance or similar grammatical structure. The most common coordinating conjunctions can be remembered with the acronym FANBOYS: for, and, nor, but, or, yet, and so.
For example,
“I wanted to go for a walk, but it started raining,” the conjunction “but” connects two independent clauses, emphasizing the contrast between the speaker's intention
and the weather.
Subordinating conjunctions, on the other hand, connect an independent clause with a dependent clause, establishing a relationship such as cause, time, or condition.
Subordinating conjunctions, on the other hand, connect an independent clause with a dependent clause, establishing a relationship such as cause, time, or condition.
Examples include “because,” “although,” “since,” and “unless.”
For instance,
“I stayed home because it was raining” uses “because” to explain the reason for staying home.
Lastly, correlative conjunctions work in pairs to join equal elements, such as “either…or,” “neither…nor,” and “both…and.”
For example,
“Either you start studying now, or you might fail the exam,”
Here the conjunctions highlight a choice between two scenarios "Either.... or".
In summary, conjunctions are crucial for sentence structure, enhancing clarity and coherence by linking different parts of
a sentence. Their correct usage allows for more complex and nuanced expression, aiding in the effective communication of ideas.
Before doing the practice set, let us know the basic rules of conjunctions
Three main types of conjunctions:
- Coordinating Conjunction
- There are seven Coordinating Conjunctions
- (FANBOYS)
F - for
A - and
N - not
B - but
O - or
Y - yet
S - so
FANBOYS are used to join (independent clauses) words, sentences, phrases and independent clauses.
- Subordinating Conjunction
- Subordinating conjunctions are
- used to join a dependent clause to independent clause.
- Although
- So
- Since
- While
- Until
- If
- Because
- When
- As
- Unless
Points to remember:
- Time: Before, After when
- Place: where, wherever
- Comparison: than
- Concession: though, although, even though
- Manner: as though, as, as if
- Purpose: in order that, so that
- Condition: unless, if
- Reason: as, because, since
- Contrast: whereas, though, even though
The term "WHITE BUS" is a mnemonic device used to remember a group of subordinating conjunctions in English grammar. Subordinating conjunctions are words that join dependent clauses to independent clauses, helping to establish
a relationship between the two. The mnemonic "WHITE BUS" stands for the following conjunctions:
- W: When, Where, While, Whenever, Wherever
- H: How
- I: If, In case
- T: Though, Than
- E: Even though, Even if
- B: Because, Before
- U: Unless, Until
- S: Since, So that
These conjunctions introduce subordinate clauses that cannot be stand-alone as complete sentences.
For example, in the sentence "I will go to the park if it stops raining," the word "if" is a subordinating conjunction that connects the dependent clause "if it stops raining" to the independent clause "I will go to the park." Using subordinating conjunctions helps add complexity to writing by indicating relationships such as time, cause, condition, contrast,and concession between ideas.
These (Correlative Conjunctions) conjunctions usually come in pairs and it is necessary to use both parts to make sense.
Correlative conjunctions are frequently asked in competitive exams.
These conjunctions are used in spotting the error, sentence improvement etc.
We are going to cover "Correlative Conjunctions" in the blog.
Rules of Correlative Conjunctions with Examples:
Correlative conjunctions are pairs of conjunctions that work together to connect equivalent elements in a sentence.
The most common correlative conjunctions include “either...or,” “neither...nor,” “both...and” “not only...but also,” and “whether...or.” Here are the rules and examples for each:
1. Either...or: This pair is used to connect two choices or alternatives.
Example: “You can either have tea or coffee.”
Explanation: This sentence presents two options for the reader to choose from: tea or coffee.
2. Neither...nor: This pair is used to connect two negative alternatives.
Example: “Neither the manager nor the staff were aware of the problem.”
Explanation: This indicates that both the manager and the staff were unaware, emphasizing the absence of awareness among both parties.
3. Both...and: This connects two positive elements, showing that both are true or applicable.
Example: “She is both intelligent and hardworking.”
Explanation: This sentence highlights that the subject possesses both qualities: intelligence and a strong work ethic.
4. Not only...but also: This pair is used to emphasize the inclusion of additional information.
Example: “He is not only a talented musician but also a skilled painter.”
Explanation: The sentence emphasizes that the subject has more than one talent, adding depth to their skillset.
5. Whether...or: This is used to present two possibilities or alternatives.
Example: “I haven’t decided whether to go to the party or stay home.”
Explanation: The sentence presents two potential actions, highlighting indecision about which to choose.
In using correlative conjunctions, it's essential to maintain parallel structure, meaning the elements being connected should be similar in grammatical form to ensure clarity and balance in the sentence.
Inspiring Message for SSC CGL Aspirants (2026)
From Beginner to Pro:
One of my followers (aspirants) of SSC CGL often says," I am a little bit confused while doing the exercises of correlative conjunctions"
Student: Ma’am, I’m a little confused while doing exercises on correlative conjunctions.
Teacher: Don’t worry! First, revise the rules and examples before attempting the exercises.
Student: Should I practise more questions?
Teacher: Absolutely! The more practice papers you solve, the more confident and accurate you will become.
Student: So, revision first and then regular practice?
Teacher: Exactly! Revise → Practise → Analyse mistakes → Improve.
Student: Thank you, ma’am. I’ll follow this strategy!
Teacher: Remember: Practice + Patience = Perfection!
Identify the part of the sentence that contains an error:
The Rang Barse Mahotsav will take place between 10am to 12pm tomorrow.
- The Rang Barse Mahotsav
- between 10 am to
- will take place
- 12 pm tomorrow.
Ans: between 10 am to
Explanation:
The error in the sentence is in the phrase “between 10am to 12pm.” The correct preposition to use with “between” is “and,” not “to.” Therefore, the sentence should read: “The Rang Barse Mahotsav will take place between 10am and 12pm tomorrow.”
Explanation of the Error and Correction:
1. Error Identification: The prepositional phrase “between 10am to 12pm” incorrectly uses “to” after “between.”
2. Grammatical Rule: When indicating a range or span of time, “between” should be followed by “and.” The structure is “between X and Y,” where X and Y are two distinct points, such as times, dates, or numbers.
3. Correction: Replace “to” with “and” to correctly form the phrase: “between 10am and 12pm.”
Using “between” with “to” is a common mistake, but adhering to the correct pairing of “between” with “and” ensures clarity and grammatical accuracy.
Identify the part of the sentence that contains an error:
Both the Principal as well as the staff were present at the meeting.
- were present
- as well as
- Both the principal
- the staff
Ans: as well as
Both the principal and the staff were present.
Explanation:
The error in the sentence is in the phrase “Both the Principal as well as the staff were present at the meeting.” The phrase “Both…as well as” is incorrect because "both" should be paired with "and" instead of "as well as." The correct construction should read: “Both the Principal and the staff were present.”
Grammatical Rule: In English, the correlative conjunction "both" must be paired with "and"
to correctly link two parallel elements in a sentence.
"As well as" can be used to add information or emphasize addition, but it does not work as a pair with "both."
For example, you can say: “The Principal, as well as the staff, was present,” but this changes the structure of the sentence and emphasizes the principal's presence separately.
Identify the part of the sentence that contains an error:
Not only the peon cheated his wife but also betrayed his friend.
- Not only the peon
- cheated his wife
- but also betrayed
- his friend
Ans: cheated his wife
The peon not only cheated on his wife but also betrayed his friend.
Explanation:
The sentence contains an error in parallel structure. The phrase "Not only... but also" requires that the elements following each part be parallel in structure. In this sentence, "cheated his wife" and "betrayed his friend" are not parallel because "cheated" and "betrayed" do not share the same grammatical form as subjects of the sentence.
To correct the sentence, ensure that both parts of the sentence are parallel. You could write: “The peon not only cheated on his wife but also betrayed his friend.” Here, the phrases "cheated on his wife" and "betrayed his friend" are parallel, as both are verb phrases with similar grammatical structures.
Grammatical Rule: When using correlative conjunctions like "not only... but also," ensure that the sentence elements they connect are parallel, meaning they have the same grammatical form and function. This enhances clarity and readability.
Identify the part of the sentence that contains an error:
Unless you do not play online games, you will not succeed in life.
- Unless you
- do not play online games
- you will not
- succeed in life.
Ans: do not play online games
Unless you play online games, you will not succeed in life.
Explanation:
The error in the sentence is in the phrase "Unless you do not play online games." The problem arises from the use of a double negative, which in this context creates a logical inconsistency. The word "unless" already introduces a negative condition, so adding "do not" makes the condition unclear and contradictory.
To correct the error, the sentence should be rewritten to remove the double negative:
"Unless you play online games, you will not succeed in life."
Grammatical Rule: In English, the word "unless" is used to introduce a condition that, if not met, makes a statement false. It inherently implies a negative condition, so adding another negative word (such as "not") is redundant and incorrect. Always ensure that the condition following "unless" is stated positively for clarity.
Identify the part of the sentence that contains an error:
This iPhone is so expensive to buy.
- This iPhone
- is so
- expensive
- to buy
Ans: to buy
We can correct this sentence in two ways:
This iPhone is so expensive that I can't afford to buy it.
or
This iPhone is too expensive to buy.
Explanation:
The error in the sentence "This iPhone is so expensive to buy" lies in the use of "so" without a corresponding clause to complete the comparison or result.
The word "so" typically introduces a result or cause-and-effect relationship and should be followed by a clause that explains the outcome or consequence of the condition described.
To correct the sentence, you can either complete the thought by adding a clause that explains the result or replace "so" with "too" if you intend to express that the iPhone is excessively expensive in a way that prevents it from being bought. Here’s how you can correct it:
1. Add a result clause: "This iPhone is so expensive that I can't afford to buy it."
2. Use "too" instead of "so": "This iPhone is too expensive to buy."
Grammatical Rule: When using "so" as an intensifier, it should be followed by a result clause (e.g., "so + adjective/adverb + that + result clause"). Alternatively, "too" can be used to indicate an excessive degree that prevents an action (e.g., "too + adjective/adverb + infinitive")
Note:
- Do not apply comma with coordinating conjunctions while joining words or phrases.
- Use comma before coordinating conjunctions when joining 2 independent clauses.
- Use correlative conjunctions in pairs.
Mistakes to Be Avoided by Candidates of SSC CGL
The Magic of Conjunctions in English Grammar:
Connecting Words That Join Ideas
1. Incorrect: Neither the manager nor his assistants is available for the meeting. ❌
Correct: Neither the manager nor his assistants are available for the meeting. ✔️
Explanation: When using correlative conjunctions like “neither...nor” the verb should agree with the subject closest to it. Here, “assistants” is plural, so the verb should be “are.”
2. Incorrect: Both the teacher and the students was excited about the trip. ❌
Correct: Both the teacher and the students were excited about the trip. ✔️
Explanation: With "both...and," the verb should agree with the plural subject, "students," thus
"were" is correct.
3. Incorrect: Either the cats or the dog have to stay outside. ❌
Correct: Either the cats or the dog has to stay outside. ✔️
Explanation: With “either...or,” the verb should agree with the subject nearest to it. Here, “dog” is singular, so the correct verb
is “has.”
4. Incorrect: Neither the director nor the actors is aware of the script changes. ❌
Correct: Neither the director nor the actors are aware of the script changes. ✔️
Explanation: The verb should agree with the plural subject “actors,” which is nearest, so “are” is correct.
5. Incorrect: Either the manager or the employees is responsible for the error. ❌
Correct: Either the manager or the employees are responsible for the error. ✔️
Explanation: The verb should match the subject closest to it, which is “employees,”
a plural noun, requiring “are.”
6. Incorrect: Both the book and the articles was reviewed by the editor. ❌
Correct: Both the book and the articles were reviewed by the editor. ✔️
Explanation: "Both...and" takes a plural verb, and since “articles” is plural, “were”
is appropriate.
7. Incorrect: Neither the players nor the coach have been informed. ❌
Correct: Neither the players nor the coach has been informed. ✔️
Explanation: The verb should agree with "coach," the singular subject closest to it, so “has” is needed.
8. Incorrect: Both the chef and the waiters prepares the meals. ❌
Correct: Both the chef and the waiters prepare the meals. ✔️
Explanation: "Both...and" implies a plural subject, so the verb should agree with “waiters,” a plural noun, making “prepare” correct.
9. Incorrect: Either the twins or their brother were going to win the prize. ❌
Correct: Either the twins or their brother was going to win the prize. ✔️
Explanation: "Either...or" requires the verb to agree with the subject closest to it. “Brother” is singular, so “was” is correct.
10. Incorrect: Neither the students nor the teacher were available for the meeting. ❌
Correct: Neither the students nor the teacher was available for the meeting. ✔️
Explanation: The verb should match the subject nearest to it, which is “teacher,” a singular noun, therefore “was” correct.
Multiple-choice questions (MCQs) on correlative conjunctions requires a focus on both understanding and applying these conjunctions in context. Below are 20 MCQs with answers and explanations.
Master Conjunctions to Write with Clarity
1. Which sentence contains a correct use of correlative conjunctions?
a) Both she and him are coming to the party.
b) Either she or him will present the project.
c) Neither the coach nor the players were satisfied with the result.
d) Not only did he run fast but also he stopped suddenly.
Answer: c) Neither the coach nor the players were satisfied with the result.
Explanation: Correlative conjunctions should pair similar grammatical structures. Option correctly
pairs "neither" with "nor" and maintains parallelism.
2. Identify the sentence with incorrect correlative conjunction usage.
a) Not only is he talented, but he is also humble.
b) Both the manager and the staff attended the meeting.
c) Either you can choose the blue shirt or the red one.
d) Neither my brother nor my sister like spicy food.
Answer: c) Either you can choose the blue shirt or the red one.
Explanation: The sentence should maintain parallel structure: "Either you can choose the blue shirt or you can choose the red one."
3. Which pair of correlative conjunctions is used correctly?
a) Both/and
b) Either/nor
c) Neither/and
d) Not only/nor
Answer: a) Both/and
Explanation: "Both" pairs correctly with "and" to link two similar elements.
4. Complete the sentence:
"_________ the team nor the coach was happy with the final score."
a) Either
b) Both
c) Neither
d) Not only
Answer: c) Neither
Explanation: "Neither" is correctly paired with "nor" to join two negative alternatives.
5. Which sentence correctly uses "either/or"?
a) Either the soup nor the salad was served.
b) Either you study hard or you fail.
c) Either the movie or the book were interesting.
d) Either the teacher nor the students were excited.
Answer: b) Either you study hard or you fail.
Explanation: "Either/or" is used to present two alternatives.
6. Fill in the blanks: "_______ the cat _______ the dog likes to play outside."
a) Either/nor
b) Both/and
c) Not only/but also
d) Neither/or
Answer: b) Both/and
Explanation: "Both" and "and" link two subjects that enjoy playing outside.
7. What is the correlative conjunction in this sentence? "Not only did he win the race, but he also broke the record."
a) Not only/but also
b) Either/or
c) Neither/nor
d) Both/and
Answer: a) Not only/but also
Explanation: "Not only/but also" emphasizes the dual accomplishments.
8. Choose the sentence with parallel structure:
a) Either you can ride with us or take the bus.
b) Either ride with us or taking the bus.
c) Either you ride with us or take the bus.
d) Neither ride with us nor take the bus.
Answer: c) Either you ride with us or take the bus.
Explanation: This sentence maintains parallel structure with "ride" and "take."
9. Which sentence demonstrates incorrect use of "neither/nor"?
a) Neither the students nor the teacher has arrived.
b) Neither the cat nor the dog are playing.
c) Neither Tom nor his friends were there.
d) Neither rain nor snow will stop us.
Answer: b) Neither the cat nor the dog are playing.
Explanation: "Neither/nor" should be followed by singular verbs when referring to singular subjects: "Neither the cat nor the dog is playing."
10. Select the correlative conjunctions that correctly complete the sentence:
"_________ did she forget her keys, _________ she left her wallet at home."
a) Either/or
b) Neither/nor
c) Not only/but also
d) Both/and
Answer: c) Not only/but also
Explanation: "Not only/but also" highlights both mistakes made.
11. Which option demonstrates correct usage of "both/and"?
a) Both the teacher and the students was happy.
b) Both the apples and the oranges is ripe.
c) Both the manager and the team are ready.
d) Both the car and bike needs repair.
Answer: c) Both the manager and the team are ready.
Explanation: "Both/and" is used correctly with a plural verb "are," matching the plural subjects.
12. Choose the correct completion: "_________ I need to finish my homework, _________ I have to help with dinner."
a) Neither/nor
b) Not only/but also
c) Both/or
d) Either/and
Answer: b) Not only/but also
Explanation: "Not only/but also" is used to highlight both responsibilities.
13. Identify the correctly paired correlative conjunctions:
a) Both/or
b) Either/and
c) Neither/nor
d) Not only/either
Answer: c) Neither/nor
Explanation: "Neither/nor" correctly pairs negative alternatives.
14. Which sentence uses "either/or" correctly?
a) You can either to go to the park or stay home.
b) Either the manager or the employees is responsible.
c) Either the teacher nor the student was correct.
d) Either the cake or the ice cream were good.
Answer: b) Either the manager or the employees is responsible.
Explanation: This sentence correctly uses "either/or" to present alternatives but note that "is" should ideally be to match the plural "employees."
15. Complete the sentence: "_________ the rain _________ the wind will stop the match."
a) Neither/nor
b) Both/and
c) Either/or
d) Not only/but also
Answer: a) Neither/nor
Explanation: "Neither/nor" indicates that none of the conditions will stop the match.
16. Which sentence correctly uses "not only/but also"?
a) Not only she sings but also dance.
b) Not only does he play the guitar, but he also sings.
c) Not only the team won but also celebrated.
d) Not only is he tired but also hungry.
Answer: b) Not only does he play the guitar, but he also sings.
Explanation: This sentence maintains parallel structure and correctly uses the correlative conjunctions.
17. Select the sentence with proper correlative conjunction structure:
a) Both the manager and the workers was late.
b) Either you study now or regret later.
c) Neither the movie nor the book were interesting.
d) Both the teacher or the students need to arrive.
Answer: b) Either you study now or regret later.
Explanation: "Either/or" correctly presents two alternatives with parallel verb forms.
18. Identify the incorrect use of correlative conjunctions:
a) Both the pasta and the salad is delicious.
b) Neither the dog nor the cat has been fed.
c) Either the bike or the car needs repair.
d) Not only did she laugh, but she also cried.
Answer: a) Both the pasta and the salad is delicious.
Explanation: "Both/and" requires a plural verb: "are delicious."
19. Complete the sentence with correct correlative conjunctions: "_________ the movie _________ the book was interesting."
a) Either/or
b) Both/nor
c) Neither/nor
d) Not only/or
Answer: c) Neither/nor
Explanation: "Neither/nor" is used to indicate that both options were not interesting.
20. Choose the correct sentence using "both/and":
a) Both the novel and the movie was exciting.
b) Both the teacher and the student were attentive.
c) Both the rain and the snow is coming.
d) Both the cat nor the dog are outside.
Answer: b) Both the teacher and the student were attentive.
Explanation: "Both/and" is used correctly with parallel subjects and a plural verb "were"
These questions along with answers clarify the use and rules of correlative conjunctions.
Frequently Asked Questions About Conjunctions
What are correlative conjunctions?
Correlative conjunctions are pairs of words that work together to connect similar elements in a
sentence, such as two nouns, verbs, adjectives, or clauses.
These conjunctions help in creating balance and emphasis in writing by linking equal grammatical structures. Some common pairs of correlative conjunctions include “either...or” “neither...nor” “both...and” “not only...but also,” and “whether...or.”
For example, in the sentence “Either you can come with us, or you can stay here,” the correlative conjunction “either...or” connects two choices. Similarly, “Both the teacher and the students were excited about the field trip” uses “both...and” to link two subjects, emphasizing their shared enthusiasm. Lastly, “She is not only a talented musician but also a skilled dancer” employs “not only...but also” to highlight her multiple talents. By using correlative conjunctions, writers can create a more fluid and coherent structure in their sentences.
How do we use correlative conjunctions in a sentence?
Correlative conjunctions are pairs of words that work together to join equal elements in a sentence, such as words, phrases, or clauses. Common pairs include "both/and," "either/or," "neither/nor," "not only/but also," and "whether/or." These conjunctions help to emphasize the relationship between the connected elements and create a balanced sentence structure.
Here are a few examples:
1. "Both the manager and the employees agreed on the new policy."
In this sentence, "both" and "and" work together to connect two subjects: "the manager" and "the employees." This creates a balance and emphasizes that agreement was mutual.
2. "You can either call me or send an email."
Here, "either" and "or" link two options: "call me" and "send an email." This structure presents a choice between two equally possible actions.
3. "Neither the rain nor the snow could deter the hikers."
"Neither" and "nor" join two negative possibilities: "the rain" and "the snow." The sentence emphasizes that neither condition was strong enough to stop the hikers.
4. "She is not only talented but also hardworking."
This example uses "not only" and "but also" to connect two positive attributes: "talented" and "hardworking," highlighting both qualities as significant.
5. "Whether we go by train or we drive, the journey will take about three hours."
In this sentence, "whether" and "or" introduce two scenarios: "we go by train" and "we drive," indicating that the outcome remains the same regardless of the choice.
Using correlative conjunctions effectively can add clarity and emphasis to your writing by clearly linking ideas and showing their relationship.
What is inversion? When do we use it in the sentence?
Inversion in English refers to the reversal of the normal word order in a sentence, typically involving the subject and the auxiliary verb. This structure is often used for emphasis, in questions, and after certain adverbs or conjunctions. Inversion can add a formal tone or highlight specific information within a sentence.
1. In Questions: Inversion is commonly used to form questions. For example, "You are coming to the party." becomes "Are you coming to the party?" Here, the auxiliary verb "are" precedes the subject "you."
2. After Negative Adverbs: Inversion occurs after negative adverbs or adverbial phrases for emphasis. For example, "Never have I seen such a beautiful sunset." The normal order would be "I have never seen such a beautiful sunset." The inversion emphasizes the rarity of the experience.
3. Conditional Sentences: Inversion can replace "if" in conditional sentences for a more formal tone. For instance, "Should you need any assistance, feel free to call." Here, "Should you need" replaces "If you need
4. With So/Neither/Nor: When agreeing with a positive or negative statement, inversion is used. For example, "She can play the piano, and so can he." In this case, "can he" is the inverted form.
In each example, inversion serves to either form a question, add emphasis, or provide a stylistic choice for clarity or formality.
Write down common correlative pairs of conjunctions?
Correlative conjunctions are pairs of conjunctions that work together to connect equal grammatical elements in a sentence. Some common correlative pairs include:
1. Both...and: This pair is used to emphasize that two elements are equally true or applicable.
Example: "Both the teacher and the students enjoyed the field trip."
Explanation: This sentence highlights that the enjoyment of the field trip was shared by both the teacher and the students.
2. Either...or: This pair presents two alternatives or choices.
Example: "You can either call me or send an email."
Explanation: The sentence offers two options for communication, allowing the listener to choose between calling or emailing.
3. Neither...nor: This pair is used to indicate that none of the given options are true or applicable.
Example: "Neither the cat nor the dog wanted to go outside in the rain."
Explanation: This sentence conveys that both the cat and the dog refused to go.
