Correlative Conjunctions List, Definition and Examples

Have you ever wondered how we join words or ideas in sentences to make them more interesting? Well, there’s a special secret for doing just that, and it’s called correlative conjunctions! These are like magic words that work in pairs to connect things in a fun and exciting way.

For example, when we say ‘both this and that,’ we’re using correlative conjunctions to make our sentences more lively.

Let’s dive into the world of these magical pairs, discover some common ones, and see how they can turn our sentences from plain to super cool!

Correlative Conjunctions

Correlative conjunctions are like a team of words that work together to connect different parts of a sentence, making sure everything fits nicely. Imagine them as buddies holding hands to bridge gaps between ideas.

They always come in pairs, like “either/or,” “neither/nor,” and “both/and.”

When you use them, you’re telling your reader that two ideas are linked, but in a special way that adds more detail or choices. It’s like saying, “You can have this or that,” or “Not only is this true, but that is too!” They help make your sentences clear, interesting, and full of possibilities.

Common Correlative Conjunctions

both…and – I will eat both pizza and pasta for dinner.
either…or – You can choose either the blue shirt or the red shirt.
neither…nor – Neither the cat nor the dog made a sound.
not only…but also – She is not only talented but also very hardworking.
whether…or – I couldn’t decide whether to go for a walk or stay home.
as…as – He is as strong as an ox.
so…that – The movie was so exciting that I watched it twice.
such…that – It was such a cold day that we stayed indoors.
scarcely…when – I had scarcely sat down when the phone rang.
hardly…when – She had hardly arrived when it started to rain.
no sooner…than – No sooner had I stepped outside than I realized I had forgotten my keys.
rather…than – I would rather have tea than coffee.
not…but – He is not my brother but my cousin.
if…then – If you study hard, then you will pass the test.
just as…so – Just as the sun sets, so does the moon rise.
the…the – The more you practice, the better you become.
not so much…as – It’s not so much about being right as it is about being kind.
both…as well as – She enjoys both painting as well as drawing.
not…but rather – He is not angry but rather disappointed.
as much…as – I like as much chocolate as vanilla.