Conjunctions List in English: Types and Example Sentences

Conjunctions play an important role in English grammar by helping sentences sound clear, logical, and connected. They are words used to link words, phrases, or clauses within a sentence.

Conjunctions List

Conjunction words link other words, phrases, or clauses. There are three types of conjunctions: coordinating conjunctions, subordinating conjunctions, and correlative conjunctions.

Use the table below to see each type, its function, and common examples.

Type	Function	Common Examples
Coordinating	Join words or independent clauses of equal importance	for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so (FANBOYS)
Subordinating	Join a dependent clause to an independent clause	because, although, since, if, when, while
Correlative	Work in pairs to join balanced elements	both…and, either…or, neither…nor, not only…but also

List of Conjunctions

Coordinating Conjunctions (FANBOYS)

Coordinating conjunctions connect ideas that are grammatically equal. A simple way to remember them is FANBOYS:

Comma rule: When FANBOYS joins two independent clauses, use a comma before the conjunction.

I wanted to sleep, but I had to finish my work.
She studied hard, so she passed the test.

Subordinating Conjunctions

Subordinating conjunctions introduce dependent clauses. These clauses cannot stand alone, so they must be connected to an independent clause to form a complete sentence.

Purpose	Common Subordinating Conjunctions	Example
Reason / Cause	because, since, as	I stayed home because* I was sick.*
Contrast	although, though, whereas	Although it was raining, we went out.
Time	when, while, before, after, until	After I finish my homework, I will relax.
Condition	if, unless, as long as	If you study hard, you will pass.

Correlative Conjunctions

Correlative conjunctions come in pairs and connect elements of equal importance. The key rule is parallel structure (the grammar on both sides should match).

Pair	Example
both…and	She likes both* tea and coffee.*
either…or	You can either* call me or send a message.*
neither…nor	He is neither* tired nor hungry.*
not only…but also	She is not only* smart but also hardworking.*

Last Updated on January 22, 2026

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Nhat Nhat

English Teacher | IELTS Instructor | English Learning Content Creator at ESLTeacher.org

Nhat Nhat is an English teacher and IELTS instructor specializing in grammar, academic writing, and English learning resources. He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in English Education from Hanoi National University of Education (HNUE), an IELTS 8.0 certificate, and TESOL / TEFL teaching certifications. With over 9 years of teaching experience, he creates practical lessons and educational content to help learners improve their English skills and exam performance.