Correlative Conjunctions
Use correlative conjunctions correctly in sentences, pairing words such as either/or, neither/nor, both/and, not only/but also, and whether/or
What a learner can do afterwards
- Write sentences using each pair of correlative conjunctions correctly
- Ensure parallel structure when using correlative conjunctions in complex sentences
- Identify and correct errors in correlative conjunction usage in given sentences
1 · Read
Some conjunctions never work alone. They come as a matching pair, and each half needs the other to make sense. Either pairs with or, and neither pairs with nor. Either shows a choice: either this or that. Neither shows the negative version: not this and not that.
Grace both plays soccer and paints pictures. Both points forward to plays soccer, and and points forward to paints pictures. The two halves match, so the sentence reads smoothly.
Whatever follows the first word must match the shape of whatever follows the second word. If the first half uses a verb, the second half needs a verb too. Either you sing or you dance keeps two matching actions.
Two more pairs to know: not only pairs with but also, and it adds extra information. Whether pairs with or, and it often shows a question or uncertainty. Not only was the cake tasty, but also it was pretty. I do not know whether to walk or to ride.
Correlative conjunctions always travel in matching pairs, and both halves need to match in meaning and grammar.
2 · Watch
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Where this leads
Jobs that lean on this skill. Follow one to see everything it is built on.
24 questions wait behind this lesson, each with its answer explained. Every answer feeds the sky: stars light as they are learned, and dim when it is time to come back.