Conjunctions are words that connect words, phrases, or clauses.
Examples:
My brother and my sister
Tea or coffee
She said that you are leaving.
Common English conjunctions include:
and
if
that
but
or
nor
so
yet
Use and to join similar ideas.
I like tofu and rice.
She can sing and dance.
My brother and my sister live in Kingsville.
Use a comma before and when it joins two complete sentences (independent clauses).
I work at night, and she works during the day.
He studied hard, and he passed the exam.
Do not use a comma when and joins words or simple phrases.
I play and sing.
She bought apples, oranges, and bananas.
❌ I play, and sing. ❌ I like tofu, and rice.
Use but to show a contrast or difference.
I wanted to go, but I was busy.
She is tired, but she is still working.
The book is long, but it is interesting.
Usually, put a comma before but when it joins two complete sentences.
I wanted to help, but I didn't have time.
He studied hard, but he failed the test.
or – shows a choice
Would you like tea or coffee?
You can walk or take the bus.
if – shows a condition
Call me if you need help.
If it rains, we will stay home.
so – shows a result
I was tired, so I went to bed early.
It was raining, so we stayed inside.
yet – shows an unexpected contrast
She is young, yet very talented.
He worked hard, yet he did not succeed.
nor – joins two negative ideas
He does not drink coffee, nor does he drink tea.
that – introduces a clause
She said that she was busy.
I know that he is right.
Conjunctions connect words, phrases, and clauses.
Use a comma before and when it joins two complete sentences.
Do not use a comma before and when it joins words or simple phrases.
Usually use a comma before but when it joins two complete sentences.
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