English Grammar – Conjunctions exercises Exercises with Answers
Exercises on Conjunctions – Conjunctions play a crucial role in the realm of language, acting as the linguistic glue that binds words, phrases, and clauses together to create coherent and meaningful sentences. To communicate with clarity and precision, one must become proficient in the use of conjunctions. Conjunction exercises are a great way to improve language skills in grammar and writing because they let you practise combining ideas in a natural way, switching between different types of conjunctions, and comprehending how these connective words affect the overall structure and flow of a sentence. By focusing on specific exercises on conjunctions, learners can improve their control over conjunctions, which will ultimately enable them to write with greater clarity and effectively express ideas.
What are conjunctions?
Conjunctions are a special type of word that has the singular purpose of joining two or more grammatical elements. They are known as ‘joining words’ as they do the work of joining two words or clauses or sentences.
Types of Conjunctions
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- Coordinating conjunction
- Subordinating conjunction
- Correlative conjunction
- Compound conjunction
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Coordinating Conjunctions
Coordinating conjunctions are words that connect words, phrases, or independent clauses of equal grammatical rank. They help to create smooth and logical transitions within sentences and add variety to your writing.
Common Coordinating Conjunctions:
- For: Indicates a reason or explanation. For example- I missed the bus, for I overslept.
- And: Joins two or more items or ideas. For example-I like apples and bananas.
- Nor: Indicates a negative alternative. For example-I don’t like coffee, nor do I like tea.
- But: Introduces a contrast or exception. For example-I wanted to go out, but it was raining.
- Or: Offers a choice or alternative. For example- Would you like tea or coffee?
- Yet: Indicates a contrast or unexpected result. For example-The book was long, yet I finished it quickly.
- So: Expresses a result or consequence. For example- It was late, so I went to bed.
The acronym FANBOYS stands for the seven most common coordinating conjunctions in English.
F– For
A – And
N – Nor
B – But
O – Or
Y – Yet
S – So
Subordinating Conjunctions
Subordinating conjunctions are words that connect a dependent clause (a clause that cannot stand on its own as a complete sentence) to an independent clause (a clause that can stand on its own). They create complex sentences and establish relationships between ideas, such as time, cause and effect, condition, contrast, or purpose.
Common Subordinating Conjunctions:
- After, as, as soon as, before, since, until, when, whenever, while (time relationships)
- Because, since, so that, in order that (cause and effect relationships)
- Although, even though, though, whereas (contrast relationships)
- If, unless, provided that, so long as (conditional relationships)
- That, whether (introducing noun clauses)
Examples of Subordinating Conjunctions in Sentences:
- I’ll call you after I finish work. (Time relationship)
- She stayed home because she was sick. (Cause and effect)
- We’ll go to the park unless it rains. (Condition)
- Although I’m tired, I am happy. (Contrast)
- They debated whether to take the risk or play it safe. (Introducing a noun clause)
Correlative Conjunctions
Correlative conjunctions are word pairs that work together to connect two grammatically equal elements within a sentence, such as words, phrases, or clauses. They create balance and emphasis, adding sophistication and variety to your writing.
Common Correlative Conjunctions:
- Both…and
For example- Both the sun and the stars were visible in the night sky.
- Either…or
For example- Either chocolate or vanilla ice cream would be delicious.
- Neither…nor
For example- Neither rain nor shine will deter me from my goals.
- Not only…but also
For example- Not only did she win the race, but she also broke the record.
- As…as
For example- He is as kind as he is intelligent.
- So…that
For example- I studied so that I could pass the exam.
- Whether…or
For example- Whether you stay or go, I will support your decision.
- No sooner…than
For example- No sooner had I entered the room than the meeting began.
- Hardly…when
For example- Hardly had I finished lunch when my phone rang.
- Such…that
For example- Such was her fear that she couldn’t speak.
Compound Conjunctions
Compound conjunctions are phrases that function as single conjunctions, connecting words, phrases, or clauses within a sentence. They add nuance and variety to your writing by providing more specific relationships than simple conjunctions.
Common Compound Conjunctions:
- As if, as though
For example – She spoke as if she knew the secret.
- As long as, provided that
For example – I’ll help you, as long as you promise to finish on time.
- In order that, so that
For example – He studied hard so that he could get good grades.
- Even though, although
For example – Even though I was tired, I finished the project.
- Since, because
For example – I didn’t go out because I was feeling unwell.
- Until, till
For example – We waited until the rain stopped.
- Now that, since
For example – Now that you’re here, we can start the meeting.
Examples of Compound Conjunctions in Sentences:
- He left early as if he had something important to do.
- Provided that you do your part, I’ll help you achieve your goal.
- She practiced every day so that she could be ready for the competition.
- Although nervous, she took a deep breath and started her presentation.
- Since it was getting late, we decided to postpone the meeting.
- We’ll stay here until the storm passes.
- Now that you’re informed, let’s make a decision.
- He spoke softly lest he might wake the baby.
Exercise 1 – Identify the conjunctions in the following sentences.
1. The sun shone brightly and the birds chirped merrily.
Ans. and
2. I wanted to go swimming, but it started to rain.
Ans. but
3. Would you like ice cream or cake for dessert?
Ans. or
4. I studied hard, for I wanted to get a good grade.
Ans. for
5. She was tired, so she took a nap.
Ans. so
6. He was small, yet he was strong.
Ans. yet
7. You either clean your room or you lose your TV privileges.
Ans. either
8. I neither like apples nor pears.
Ans. nor
9. She enjoys reading both novels and poetry.
Ans. both
10. The sun dipped below the horizon, as the sky turned fiery orange.
Ans. as
11. He worked diligently, therefore he achieved his goals.
Ans. therefore
12. Although It was difficult she never gave up hope.
Ans. although
13. She played the piano, while he sang along.
Ans. while
14. I prefer warm weather, whereas my brother likes the cold.
Ans. whereas
15. The rain poured down heavily and the wind howled like a wolf.
Ans. and
16. The storm clouds gathered ominously, yet not a single drop of rain fell.
Ans. yet
17. Neither the rain nor the wind could dampen their spirits as they celebrated their graduation.
Ans. Neither – nor
18. She’s not only artistic, but also incredibly athletic.
Ans. but also
19. The teacher explained the concept clearly, so everyone understood it by the end of the lesson.
Ans. so
20. Whether you love cats or dogs, there’s no denying they both make wonderful companions.
Ans. whether, or
21. He knew he had made a mistake, though he wasn’t sure how to apologize.
Ans. though
22. You can either join us for a hike or relax at the beach, whichever you prefer.
Ans. either-or
23. Not only did she conquer the mountain peak, but also she reveled in the breathtaking panorama that unfolded beneath her.
Ans. Not only – but also
24. As much as I love the hustle and bustle of city life, sometimes I yearn for the serenity of a secluded cabin in the woods.
Ans. As much as
25. No sooner had I finished decorating the Christmas tree than my mischievous puppy decided to investigate its ornaments with enthusiastic paws.
Ans. No sooner – than
Pitfalls and common errors
Conjunctions, can streamline your writing but navigating them isn’t always smooth sailing. Here are some pitfalls and common errors to avoid:
1. Comma splice: This sneaky error joins two independent clauses with just a comma, creating a run-on sentence.
- Incorrect: I finished my project, I’m exhausted.
- Correct: I finished my project; I’m exhausted. (Use a semicolon)
- Correct: I finished my project, and now I’m exhausted. (Add a coordinating conjunction)
2. Misused subordinating conjunctions: Subordinating conjunctions introduce dependent clauses and need a complete main clause to make sense.
- Incorrect: Because it was raining, the party was cancelled. (The “it” is unclear)
- Correct: The party was cancelled because it was raining. (Complete main clause clarifies)
3. Mismatched formality: Choose conjunctions that align with the tone and formality of your writing.
- Incorrect: The king, he declared war on the neighbouring kingdom. (Informal conjunction)
- Correct: The king declared war on the neighbouring kingdom. (Formal tone)
By being mindful of these pitfalls and common errors, you can harness the power of conjunctions to create clear, concise, and impactful writing.
Exercise 2 – Fill in the blanks with the most appropriate conjunction.
1. I love cats ___ dogs. ( equal elements)
Ans. I love cats and dogs.
2. He didn’t want to go, _____ he was afraid of heights. (Introducing a reason)
Ans. He didn’t want to go, for he was afraid of heights.
3. He wanted to go sailing, ______ the weather was bad. (contrast)
Ans. He wanted to go sailing, but the weather was bad.
4. Would you like coffee ____ tea? ( choice)
Ans. Would you like coffee or tea?
5. He knew it was wrong, ____ he couldn’t help himself. (Introducing a contrast after a pause)
Ans. He knew it was wrong, yet he couldn’t help himself
6. She studied hard, ______ she got a good grade. (Showing a consequence)
Ans. She studied hard, so she got a good grade.
7. ________ she was tired, she still went to the party. (Contrast)
Ans. Although she was tired, she still went to the party.
8. I will go to the store _____ I finish my homework. (Time)
Ans. I will go to the store after I finish my homework.
9. _____ you study hard, you will do well on the test. (Condition)
Ans. If you study hard, you will do well on the test.
10. I went to the park ________ I wanted to get some fresh air. (Reason)
Ans. I went to the park because I wanted to get some fresh air.
11. I will call you ___ ____ ____ I get home. (Time)
Ans. I will call you as soon as I get home.
12. She always listens to music ____ she exercises. (Time)
Ans. She always listens to music while she exercises.
13. I will eat my vegetables ___ ______ ____ you give me dessert. (Condition)
Ans. I will eat my vegetables as long as you give me dessert.
14. He missed the train ______ he left home late. (Reason)
Ans. He missed the train because he left home late.
15. ______ you practice, you won’t improve your skills. (Condition)
Ans. Unless you practice, you won’t improve your skills.
16. I will water the plants ______ I leave for vacation. (Time)
Ans. I will water the plants before I leave for vacation.
17. She yearned for the hustle and bustle of the city, ____ the tranquility of the countryside soothed her soul. (Internal conflict)
Ans. She yearned for the hustle and bustle of the city, yet the tranquility of the countryside soothed her soul.
18. I love pizza, ___ I’m trying to eat healthier. (contrast)
Ans. I love pizza, but I’m trying to eat healthier.
19. He was nervous, ____ he gave a great presentation. (contrast)
Ans. He was nervous, yet he gave a great presentation.
20. It was a hot day, _______ we went swimming. (Result)
Ans. It was a hot day, so we went swimming.
21. I don’t like coffee, ____ do I like tea. ( Choice )
Ans. I don’t like coffee, nor do I like tea.
22. I will wait for you _____ you come back. (time)
Ans. I will wait for you until you come back.
23. Put your keys safely _____ you can find it. (place)
Ans. Put your keys safely where you can find it.
24. ____ you find a lot of water, you will also find these beautiful insects. (place)
Ans. Where you find a lot of water, you will also find these beautiful insects.
25. _______ we go by train or we rent a car. Which do you prefer? (choice)
Ans. Either we go by train or we rent a car. Which do you prefer?
Exercise 3 – Join the following sentences using a suitable conjunction.
1. The rain poured all day. The picnic was cancelled.
Ans. The rain poured all day so the picnic was cancelled.
2. She looked around. She couldn’t see anything.
Ans. She looked around, but she couldn’t see anything.
3. We could hike to the lake. We could rent bikes and explore the trails.
Ans. We could hike to the lake, or we could rent bikes and explore the trails.
4. I studied hard. I felt confident about the exam.
Ans. I studied hard, so I felt confident about the exam.
5. Neither the apple nor the banana was ripe. I chose a pear instead.
Ans. Neither the apple nor the banana was ripe, so I chose a pear instead.
6. The wind howled through the trees. Branches scraped against the windowpane.
Ans. The wind howled through the trees, while branches scraped against the windowpane.
7. Liam finished his homework quickly, _____ he played with his friends outside.
Ans. Liam finished his homework quickly, then he played with his friends outside.
8. We were running late. We opted for a quick bite instead of a sit-down meal. (reason)
Ans. Since we were running late, we opted for a quick bite instead of a sit-down meal.
9. They shifted to the basement before the storm hit. a precautionary measure.
Ans. They shifted to the basement before the storm hit as a precautionary measure.
10. I practised for weeks. I still didn’t win the competition.
Ans. I practised for weeks, yet I still didn’t win the competition.
11. I apologise. I kept you waiting.
Ans. I apologise for I kept you waiting.
12. I didn’t like the movie. It was too long.
Ans. I didn’t like the movie, besides it was too long.
13. I’m not sure if it will work. we try something new.
Ans. I’m not sure if it will work, unless we try something new.
14. They argued bitterly. They ended up laughing together in the end.
Ans. They argued bitterly, yet they ended up laughing together in the end.
15. They went hiking. And enjoying the scenery, they also exercised.
Ans. They went hiking, and besides enjoying the scenery, they also exercised.
16. We waited. The rain stopped before leaving the house.
Ans. We waited until the rain stopped before leaving the house.
17. Study hard. You understand the concept.
Ans. Study hard until you understand the concept.
18. The house was smaller. it appeared in the photos.
Ans. The house was smaller than it appeared in the photos.
19. The sun was shining brightly. The birds were singing cheerfully.
Ans. The sun was shining brightly and the birds were singing cheerfully.
20. She searched endlessly. Finally she found what she was looking for.
Ans. She searched endlessly, until finally, she found what she was looking for.
21. She loves to read. She doesn’t like to write.
Ans. She loves to read, but she doesn’t like to write.
22. I eat dinner. I will do the dishes.
Ans. After I eat dinner, I will do the dishes.
23. I was tired. I finished the project.
Ans. Although I was tired, I finished the project.
24. I can’t decide. To go to the movies or stay home.
Ans. I can’t decide whether to go to the movies or stay home.
25. He worked hard at school. He volunteered at the local shelter.
Ans. He worked hard at school, and also volunteered at the local shelter.
Exercise 4 – Error Correction: Find and correct the misused conjunctions in the following sentences. In case of no error, write “Correct sentence” as answer.
1. I like pizza and I go to the gym twice a week to balance it out.
Ans. I like pizza, but I go to the gym twice a week to balance it out.
2. She finished her homework or she watched TV.
Ans. She finished her homework then she watched TV.
3. He was tired because he played all day or he ate too much.
Ans. He was tired either because he played all day or because he ate too much.
4. The dog chased the cat unless it hid under the bed.
Ans. The dog chased the cat until it hid under the bed.
5. She told me a secret but I promised not to tell anyone.
Ans. She told me a secret, and I promised not to tell anyone.
6. My brother likes swimming yet my sister prefers dancing.
Ans. My brother likes swimming, while my sister prefers dancing.
7. Unless you practice, you won’t improve. But hard work doesn’t guarantee success.
Ans. Unless you practice, you won’t improve. However, hard work doesn’t guarantee success.
8. I got a good grade so I studied for the test. (Reverse cause and effect)
Ans. I got a good grade because I studied for the test.
9. Neither Tom or Sarah are coming to the party.
Ans. Neither Tom nor Sarah is coming to the party.
10. Both ice cream and cake are delicious.
Ans. Correct sentence
11. Not only did Sarah bake cookies, and she also made lemonade for everyone to enjoy.
Ans. Not only did Sarah bake cookies, but she also made lemonade for everyone to enjoy.
12. No sooner had the leaves begun to fall when the first snowflakes descended.
Ans. No sooner had the leaves begun to fall than the first snowflakes descended.
13. He missed the train yet he left home late.
Ans. He missed the train because he left home late.
14. She always listens to music while she exercises.
Ans. Correct Sentence
15. Whether you like mountains or the beach, there’s a beautiful vacation spot waiting for you.
Ans. Correct Sentence
16. I like cooking and eating, yet I don’t like washing dishes afterward.
Ans. I like cooking and eating, but I don’t like washing dishes afterward.
17. Sophie is clearly exhausted, and she insists on dancing till dawn.
Ans. Sophie is clearly exhausted, yet she insists on dancing till dawn.
18. I can stay out unless the clock strikes twelve.
Ans. I can stay out until the clock strikes twelve.
19. I drank a glass of water therefore I was thirsty.
Ans. I drank a glass of water because I was thirsty.
20. Are there four and five people living in that house?
Ans. Are there four or five people living in that house?
21. My shoes look great but yet not very comfortable.
Ans. My shoes look great but are not very comfortable.
22. Both you and I know what really happened.
Ans. Correct sentence
23. I’d like to thank you since the lovely gift.
Ans. I’d like to thank you for the lovely gift.
24. Neither the basketball team or the football team is doing well.
Ans. Neither the basketball team nor the football team is doing well.
25. He is not only handsome but brilliant.
Ans. He is not only handsome but also brilliant.
Conclusion
Remember, mastering conjunctions isn’t just about grammar; it’s about communication. By using these powerful words effectively, you’ll not only improve your writing and speaking, but also unlock the potential to express yourself with greater clarity, precision, and impact. Remember, practice is the key.
Also See :
Exercises of Simple Present Tense