that correlative conjunctions come in pairs that relate to one another. Examples are
either/or,neither/nor,both/and,not only/but also:
Either I will pass the test, or I won’t be driving.The rain ruined not only the fl owers, but also the grass.Finally, subordinating conjunctions function to connect or link dependent and
independent clauses. You can identify the independent clause by fi nding the part of
each sentence that can stand alone. For example:
Until I leave, I’ll be in charge. (independent clause: I’ll be in charge)When you call me, I’ll put dinner in the oven. (independent clause: I’ll put
dinner in the oven)Zeke died a lonely man because he never tried to make friends. (independent
clause: Zeke died a lonely man)In the preceding sentences, the subordinating conjunctions are until,when, and
because. Here is a more complete list of subordinating conjunctions:
after as as if as long as because
before but that even if except that ever since
if if only in case just as since
until when whenever while
A later section will show how important it is to coordinate or subordinate thoughts
with the use of conjunctions, since they add interest, meaning, and contrast to
writing.
Written Practice 2-14
In each of the following sentences, circle the conjunctions and decide what kind it
is—coordinating, correlative, or subordinating.
- Abby and Michael are siblings.
- I had to decide between having a big breakfast or saving room for lunch.
CHAPTER 2 Introduction to the Parts of Speech^47