Conjunction for Class 10

What are Conjunctions?

Conjunctions are words that connect or join different parts of a sentence, such as words, phrases or clauses. They are important for creating smooth and coherent sentences by indicating the relationship between the connected elements. Conjunctions help create attractive, complicated statements without the choppiness of multiple short sentences. It makes sure that the phrases are joined parallelly (share the same structure.)

Types of Conjunctions

Conjunctions are classified into different types based on their functions.

1. Coordinate Conjunction

Coordinate conjunctions are words that connect words, phrases or clauses of equal importance. They are used to join elements that are similar in structure or function within a sentence.

The most common coordinate conjunctions are often remembered using the acronym "FANBOYS," which stands for:

Examples:

For: Indicates a reason or cause.

Example: Shelly studied hard for the final exams to ensure she achieved good scores.

Example: The scientist conducted research on climate change, and her findings were published in a prestigious journal.

Nor: Connects alternatives expressing negation.

Example: Neither the manager nor the employees knew how to fix the technical issue during the presentation.

But: Connects contrasting ideas or clauses.

Example: The film received critical acclaim for its brilliant acting and cinematography, but it failed to attract a large audience due to its complex plot.

Or: Presents an alternative or a choice.

Example: The detective needed to determine whether the suspect was at the crime scene during the incident or had a credible alibi.

Yet: Indicates contrast or contradiction.

Example: Despite studying hard for the exam, she has not yet received her results.

So: Shows a consequence or result.

Example: The chef carefully selected fresh ingredients, so the dish was not only delicious but also visually appealing.

Kye points to remember:

→ Put a comma before the coordinating conjunction when it is used to connect two independent clauses.
→ A clause is a group of words that contain a subject and a verb.
→ An independent clause (or main clause) expresses a complete thought. It can stand alone as a sentence.

2. Subordinate Conjunction

Subordinate conjunctions are a type of conjunction that introduces a subordinate (dependent) clause. A subordinate clause cannot stand alone as a complete sentence; it depends on the main clause to give it meaning. It can signal a cause-and-effect relationship, a contrast, or some other kind of relationship between the clauses.

Examples:

→ Although the movie received mixed reviews, many people enjoyed its unique storyline.
→ Since she had studied diligently for weeks, she confidently aced the final exam.
→ Whenever the temperature drops, the thermostat automatically adjusts to maintain a comfortable indoor environment.
→ The team completed the challenging project because they worked together continuously.
→ While Mr Smith explained the complex concept, students took detailed notes to ensure a better understanding.
→ As the Sun set behind the mountains, the sky was painted with vibrant hues of orange and pink.
→ Though Jack was exhausted after the marathon, the runner felt a sense of accomplishment and pride.
→ Whenever the alarm rings, the dog barks loudly, alerting the entire household.
→ She couldn't put it down until she finished the last page, since the book was captivating.
→ Mary decided to read a book rather than watch a movie with her sister.
→ Jonas continued to pursue his passion for painting, even though he faced criticism from his peers.
→ Supposing that the project is completed on time, we expect significant financial benefits for the company.

Key points to remember:

→ The subordinating conjunction doesn't need to go in the middle of the sentence.
→ It has to be part of the dependent clause, but the dependent clause can come before the independent clause.

3. Correlative Conjunction

Correlative conjunctions are pairs of conjunctions that work together to connect similar elements within a sentence. These conjunctions always appear in pairs and join elements that are equal in grammatical structure.

Examples: 

→ Not only did Scarlet excel in academics, but she also demonstrated leadership skills during the school's group assignment.
→ Whether you choose the red or the blue shirt, ensure that it complements the overall theme of the party.
→ The more he studied, the less anxious he felt about the upcoming exam.
→ No sooner did the bell ring than the kids rushed out of the classroom, eager to enjoy their game break.
→ The conference proved to be a valuable learning experience for the attendees as both the morning and afternoon sessions were equally engaging.
→ Whether in times of success or failure, true friends always stand by you.
→ The harder they worked together, the more satisfied they felt with the outcome.
→ Either you come with me or wait for him.
→ I was afraid to open the door lest he should follow me to it.

To Read About Voice and Narrations for Class 10: Click here

Rules to Remember

→ The conjunction so....as / as....as is used to make a comparison between two persons and things. So…….as is used in negative sentences. As…….as is used in both affirmative and negative sentences.
→ 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, no, etc. with them.
→ In affirmative sentences doubt and doubtful are followed by if/ whether. In negative or interrogative sentences doubt and doubtful are followed by that.
→ 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".

FAQs

1. What is the difference between "and" and "but"?

Answer: "And" and "but" are both types of conjunctions. "And" is used to connect similar or related ideas, while "but" is used to introduce a contrasting idea or statement. For instance, John studied hard for his English test and practised all his assignments, but he still felt nervous on the day of the test.

2. How do conjunctions help make a meaningful sentence?

Answer: Conjunctions play an important role in connecting different parts of a sentence by making it more coherent and conveying relationships between ideas.