Conjunction for Class 5

What are Conjunctions?

Conjunctions refer to joining two or more words, phrases, or sentences together in a sentence. It helps to show how concepts relate to one another and to connect ideas. They add interest to sentences and facilitate clearer thinking expression.
For instance, the word "and" is a conjunction in the statement "I like to play basketball and soccer" because it links the two activities that the person likes to do. The most often used conjunctions are because, but, and and.

Let’s look into some more examples:

→ Harry likes ice creams and cakes.
→ The conjunction "and" joins two things Harry likes.
→ She wanted to play badminton but it started raining.
→ The conjunction "but" connects two contrasting ideas.
→ You both can have coffee or tea for snacks.
→ The conjunction "or" gives a choice between two options.

Conjunctions help to make sentences more engaging and understandable by connecting distinct sections of a sentence.

Uses of Conjunctions

1. And

“And” is used to join words together in a sentence. For example, I like shopping and travelling.

2. Or

“Or” is used to join phrases in a sentence. For example, You can take a pen or a pencil.

3. But

“But” is used to connect two sentences to make a longer one. For example, He likes to read and write.

4. Because

“Because” is used to explain why something happened. For example, Stacy ate dinner early because she was hungry.

5. Though

“Though” is used to show the contrast between two possibilities. For example, Clara wanted to play outside, though it was raining.

To Read About Conjunctions for Class 6: Click here

Types of Conjunctions

Conjunctions can be classified into three categories:

1. Coordinating Conjunctions
2. Subordinating Conjunctions
3. Correlative Conjunctions

Let’s understand it in brief:

1. Coordinating Conjunctions

Coordinating conjunctions are used to connect words, phrases, or clauses that are equally important. Some common coordinating conjunctions used regularly:

For - used to explain a reason
And - used to join two similar ideas
Nor - used to show a negative alternative
But - used to show contrast or an exception
Or - used to present alternatives
Yet - used to show a contrast
So - used to show a result or consequence

Examples:

→ Alice wanted to go to the park but it started raining.
→ He likes both chocolate and vanilla ice cream.
→ You can have tea or coffee in your breakfast.

2. Subordinating Conjunctions

Subordinating conjunctions are used to connect an independent clause with a dependent clause. Some common subordinating conjunctions used on a regular basis are:

Because - indicates a cause-and-effect relationship
If - introduces a conditional clause
Although - shows contrast or a concession
When - indicates a specific time
While - indicates something happening at the same time
Since - indicates a time or reason
Unless - shows a condition that must be met

Examples:

→ Susan will go shopping if it stops snowing.
→ My mother stayed home because I was feeling sick.
→ My sister likes to read while she’s on the train.

3. Correlative Conjunctions

These conjunctions are used in pairs to connect words or phrases of equal importance. Some common correlative conjunction pairs used on a daily basis are:

Both...and - used to connect two similar things
Either...or - used to present alternatives
Neither...nor - used to show exclusivity
Not only...but also - used to emphasise additional information

Examples:

→ Harry is not only a great singer but also a talented dancer.
→ Both Nick and John attended the party.
→ She can either have chocolate or vanilla ice cream for dessert.

FAQs

1. How do conjunctions work in a sentence?

Answer: Conjunctions connect words, phrases, or clauses in a sentence to make it more meaningful and easier to communicate. For instance, Shelly wants to go shopping or play.

2. How coordinating and subordinating conjunctions are different?

Answer: Coordinating conjunctions act as "team leaders" by connecting two equal elements of a sentence. For example, Would you like to have tea or coffee?"
Subordinating conjunctions act similarly as "helpers" in that they connect two elements of a sentence, but one portion becomes less important or relies on the other part to make it meaningful. For example, She ate my pancakes because she was hungry.