A conjunction (also known as connector or joiner) is a word used to join words, phrases, or clauses together to show their relationship in a sentence.
There are 3 main types of conjunctions in English.
Coordinating Conjunctions
Coordinating conjunctions always join similar parts of speech, e.g.:
subject + subject
verb phrase + verb phrase
sentence + sentence
and, but, for, or, nor, so, yet…
You and I are both lucky today!
She works or sleeps and never goes out.
They walked to the park so they could get a little fresh air.
See the main article, Coordinating Conjunctions.
Subordinating Conjunctions
Subordinating conjunctions are adverbs used to link a subordinate clause to a main clause.
while, after, since, although, even if, because, than…
She always washes all the dishes after we finish eating.
See the main article, Subordinating Conjunctions.
Correlative Conjunctions
Correlative conjunctions also join similar parts of speech however, unlike coordinating conjunctions, they are always used in pairs.
not only – but also
whether – or
neither – nor
Neither you nor I can afford it.
Limit both your alcohol and your coffee intake if you suffer from high blood pressure.
See the main article, Correlative Conjunctions.
Form
The conjunction is attached to the sub-clause. The main clause can come first or second:
{main clause} + {conjunction + sub-clause}
You will not beat me no matter how hard you try.
{conjunction + sub-clause} + {main clause}
No matter how hard you try, you will not beat me.
If the sub clause comes first, we separate the two clauses with a comma.