Conjunction for Class 9

What are Conjunctions?

Conjunctions are words that connect or join different parts of a sentence and they help to build relationships between words, phrases or clauses.

Types of Conjunctions

Broadly, conjunctions are categorised into three categories:

1. Coordinate Conjunctions

This type of conjunction connects words, phrases or independent clauses of equal grammatical rank. The acronym FANBOYS is often used to refer to coordinating conjunctions.

Examples of coordinate conjunction:

→ For: Maria studied diligently for her exams, and her efforts paid off when she achieved the highest score in the class.
→ And: Jack worked hard on his project because he wanted to impress his boss and he succeeded as well.
→ Nor: The team neither underestimated their opponent's skills nor overestimated their abilities during the intense competition.
→ But: James had a hectic schedule, but he managed to complete all his assignments on time.
→ Or: Daniel would rather have a science book or sci-fi than a mystery. 
→ Yet: The weather was unpredictable, yet the tourists continued their journey.
→ So: The sky was overcast, so we decided to bring an umbrella with us to be safe.

2. Subordinate Conjunctions

This type of conjunction connects independent clauses with dependent clauses, making one clause subordinate to the other.

Examples of subordinate conjunction:

→ Although the weather was unpredictable, the students decided to go on a field trip to explore the biodiversity of the rainforest.
→ The entire neighbourhood was plunged into darkness since the power outage occurred unexpectedly.
→ While the scientists were conducting experiments in the laboratory, they made a groundbreaking discovery in medicine.
→ Students felt confident and well-prepared when they entered the examination hall because they had fully prepared for the exam.
→ The residents began to rebuild their homes after the storm passed.
→ The team completed the project ahead of schedule despite facing numerous obstacles.
→ As the Sun began to set, the travellers set up the camp and enjoyed the campfire.
→ Even if the theatre is closed, we could still go to the mall and do shopping for our next trip.

3. Correlative Conjunctions

This type of conjunction is used in pairs to connect words, phrases, or clauses with equal grammatical weight.

Examples of correlative conjunctions:

→ Both the students who excelled in mathematics and those who demonstrated proficiency in literature were awarded scholarships.
→ Neither the rain nor the thunderstorm could decrease the spirits of the enthusiastic crowd gathered for the outdoor concert.
→ Not only did the talented scientist conduct research, but he also presented his findings at an international conference.
→ Whether you choose to participate in the discussion or prefer to observe quietly from the sidelines.
→ Either you must complete the assigned project by the deadline, or you will face consequences later.
→ No sooner had the final bell rung than students rushed out of the classrooms, but they were reminded to submit their homework assignments on Monday.

To Read About Conjunctions for Class 10: Click here

Important Rules of Conjunctions

→ Conjunctions such as either…..or, neither……nor, else, or, otherwise are used when we have to choose one out of two.
→ Until is time-oriented and unless is action-oriented. Until and unless are negative words. Hence, we do not use negative words like not, never and no with them.
→ But, yet, still, only, however, nevertheless, while, whereas, etc. are known as adversative conjunctions and are used to connect nouns or pronouns that are opposite to each other. 
→ Although/ though is followed by yet or a comma (,).
→ The position of conjunctions should always be correct.
→ "If" and "when" are not followed by "then".
→ Since, because and as are not followed by "so".

Uses of Compound Conjunctions

Compound conjunctions are used to connect two or more independent clauses or sentences. They help to show the relationship between these clauses or sentences, indicating whether the ideas expressed are contrasting, similar or sequential.

Some common uses are following:

In order to: In order to understand the dynamics of historical events students must engage in detailed research and analyse primary sources.

On condition that: On condition that the students complete their assignments they may be granted the opportunity to showcase their creativity at the end of the semester.

Even if: Even if the storm continues and the rain pours, our determined hikers will persist on their challenging trek.

So that: The students studied diligently for their exams so that they could perform exceptionally well in the upcoming assessments.

Provided that: Students can use electronic devices during the exam, provided that they adhere to the established guidelines and ensure that the devices do not have any communication capabilities.

As if: Shelly danced gracefully as if she were a professional ballerina.

FAQs

1. Can we use multiple conjunctions in a single sentence?

Answer: Yes, we can use multiple conjunctions in a single sentence, especially in complex sentences with several clauses. However, it's essential to ensure clarity and avoid redundancy. For instance, I stayed up late to finish my homework and I felt really tired the next day because I didn't get enough sleep.

2. How do conjunctions help to improve the flow of a sentence?

Answer: Conjunctions help the flow of sentences by creating logical relationships between different parts of a sentence and making the overall meaning clear.