Types of conjunction

Techniques > Use of language > Parts of speech > Using Conjunctions > Types of conjunction

Compound | Subordinating | Correlative | See also

Conjunctions are joining words or phrases that connect together phrases to form longer sentences.

I want you to go to the bar and buy me a drink.

Compound conjunctions

Compound conjunctions come as phrases, where several words together act as a join. They typically end in 'as' or 'that'.

I will come with you as long as you promise to buy me a drink.

Subordinating conjunctions

A Subordinating conjunction joins a subordinate clause to the main clause. A subordinate clause has dependency on the main clause, and cannot stand alone.

I will buy you a drink, although you do not deserve it.

Correlative conjunctions

Correlative conjunctions surround a word or phrase and show how the two phrases are correlated (often causally).

I am so very rich that I will buy you a drink.

Pseudo-conjunctions

Sometimes other parts of speech can be act as conjunctions.

I'll call you directly I get home. (adverbial conjunction)

I'll call you the instant I get home. (nominal conjunction)

I'll call you, seeing as you are here. (verbal conjunction)