Conjunctions are also known as linking words (or linkers), and for a very good reason: they connect ideas. In the most basic of sense and broadly-speaking, conjunctions can be split into several categories, but will not be mutually exclusive to only one category.

Conjunctions of idea

As they sound, conjunctions of idea link ideas. They can be categorized generally as follows:

To add an idea	To show contrast	To give the reason	To give the result
Typically ‘and‘	Typically ‘but‘	Typically ‘because‘	Typically ‘so‘
Also, as well, too, in addition, furthermore, moreover	However, despite, in spite of, on the other hand, although, even though, though, in contrast, while, whereas	As, due to, for this reason, since	Therefore, as a result, so that, in order to

Conjunctions of time

Once again as their name suggests, these conjunctions reveal the time relationship between actions. Typical examples include before, after, then, while, since, as soon as, until etc.

Note how some conjunctions can represent idea or time (while and since are the obvious examples), but the context will usually reveal which.

I came here since I don’t like the other restaurant. (idea)

I have been here since 2pm. (time)

Correlative conjunctions

These conjunctions consist of pairs that must not be adapted. Examples:

I will have either the pizza or the pasta.

I like neither milk nor cheese.

Coordinating conjunctions

Many of the conjunctions listed above are coordinating conjunctions, meaning that they link words or clauses with the same value. Examples:

I ate soup and a sandwich.

I went to see that movie but I didn’t like it.

In these types of conjunctions, the linking word stays in the middle.

Subordinating conjunctions

Likewise, many of the conjunctions above, along with others including all of the conjunctions that can be used in conditional sentences (if, whether, unless, as long, in case), are subordinating conjunctions, meaning that one action or clause is dependent on the other.

I’ll go to the party if you go.

Richard was fitter than many of his colleagues despite being older.

In these cases, the conjunction can also be used at the beginning, as long as the clauses are inverted and a comma is used.

If you go, I’ll go.

Despite being older, Richard was fitter than many of his colleagues.

Practical tips for using conjunctions

Choose the conjunction that matches the relationship you want to show: addition, contrast, cause, result, or time. Read the whole sentence to decide whether a word like “while” or “since” is expressing time or contrast – context usually makes the function clear.

Mind punctuation: when a subordinating clause starts a sentence, follow it with a comma (If you arrive early, wait here). When two independent clauses are joined by a coordinating conjunction (for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so), put a comma before the conjunction. Avoid comma splices – do not join two full sentences with only a comma.

Keep correlative pairs parallel (either X or Y, neither X nor Y) and match grammatical forms after conjunctions (e.g., two nouns, two verbs, two clauses) to maintain clarity and flow.

• Use semicolon + conjunctive adverb + comma for strong connections (e.g., ; however, ).
• Avoid stacking many conjunctions in one sentence – split into shorter sentences if clarity suffers.
• With “because,” no comma is needed in most cases unless you want to emphasize or avoid ambiguity.
• Check correlative pairs carefully – omit one half and the sentence will sound wrong.

FAQ

When should I use a comma with a subordinating conjunction?

If the subordinating clause comes first, use a comma after it. If the independent clause comes first, you usually do not need a comma before the subordinating clause.

How do I tell if words like “while” or “since” show time or contrast?

Look at the overall meaning: if the focus is on when something happens, they show time; if the focus is on an unexpected comparison, they show contrast. Rewriting the sentence often reveals the intended relationship.

Is it acceptable to begin a sentence with a conjunction?

Yes – starting with a conjunction is common for emphasis or flow. Ensure the result is still a complete sentence and appropriate for your writing style and audience.

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