Adverbs of Conjunction

Simple Definition with Examples

The Adverbs of conjunction are used to connect clauses, phrases and words. When the job of an adverb is to connect it is called Conjunctive adverb. Conjunctive adverbs join two clauses or words separated by a semicolon (;) but not by a comma (,). Consider the sentence – ‘The school was closed; therefore, the students were sent back’.

In the preceding sentence ‘therefore’ is a conjunctive adverb which joins the two independent clauses. Keep in mind that the first independent clause should end with a semicolon followed by the conjunctive adverb and next clause separated by a comma.

To get a better understanding of the subject, consider the following examples –

• It was raining; therefore, I changed my plans.
• Drive slowly; otherwise, you might get fined.
• I will clean the room; meanwhile, you wash the car.
• The temple was difficult to reach on foot; besides, it was raining heavily.
• Complete your homework; also, don’t forget to take the dog out.
• I waited for him till evening; still, he didn’t turn up.
• You can try if you want; however, he will not change his mind.

Try identifying the Conjunctive Adverbs in the above sentences.

Therefore, otherwise, meanwhile, besides, also, still and however are the conjunctive adverbs connecting two independent clauses in the above sentences.

List/Examples/Words

Also, conversely, likewise, otherwise, consequently, indeed, still, therefore, subsequently, thus, accordingly, besides, finally, hence, instead, however, moreover, nevertheless, next, similarly, nonetheless, otherwise, then, furthermore.

Exercise with Answers

Try connecting the following independent clauses using the appropriate Adverbs of Conjunction and properly placing the semicolon and comma. Refer to the answers provided in the end of the exercise.

• I was getting late for the meeting. I took a taxi.
• He is doing well in studies. He is improving in sports.
• The vegetables were fresh and satisfactory.
• All fathers are men. Not all men are fathers.
• As the sky is blue. The ocean is blue.
• Get up early in morning. You will be late for the school.
• I tried my best. I couldn’t make it.
• The storm was strong. We reached home.
• The teacher behaved responsibly. His class behaved the same way.
• Initially he was adamant. He agreed.

Carefully go through the above sentences, joining the by an adverb of conjunction and proper placement of semicolon and comma. After you are done, go through the answers provided below-

Answers-

• I was getting late for the meeting; therefore, I took a taxi.
• He is doing well in studies; also, he is improving in sports.
• The vegetables were fresh; hence, satisfactory.
• All fathers are men; conversely, not all men are fathers.
• As the sky is blue; likewise, the ocean is blue.
• Get up early in the morning; otherwise, you will be late for the school.
• I tried my best; however, I couldn’t make it.
• The storm was strong; nevertheless, we reached home.
• The teacher behaved responsibly; similarly, his class behaved the same way.
• Initially he was adamant; finally, he agreed.

Now try joining two independent clauses on your own, using the conjunctive adverbs given in the examples list above. Don’t forget to properly place the semicolon (;) and comma (,).

Exercise with MCQs and Answers

• The river overflowed; _________, flooding the neighboring area.
  1. therefore
  2. consequently
  3. similarly
• He was instructed to move right; _______ he took the left turn.
  1. instead
  2. finally
  3. likewise
• He was running late; ______, his car broke down.
  1. hence
  2. conversely
  3. also

• He was unaware of the developments; _________, he was not informed.
  1. moreover
  2. similarly
  3. instead
• Always drive with your seat belts tied; ______, you might regret it one day.
  1. otherwise
  2. still
  3. thus
• The trust got much donations; ______, short of few thousands.
  1. indeed
  2. still
  3. furthermore
• Swimming is cheaper than joining gym; _______, it a lot better exercise.
  1. furthermore
  2. similarly
  3. consequently
• He was charged with treason; ________, placed under arrest.
  1. nonetheless
  2. subsequently
  3. thus
• He was a good orator; _____, was asked by the teacher to perform.
  1. subsequently
  2. consequently
  3. thus
• Go to the bank first; _____, clear your dues.
  1. next
  2. finally
  3. besides

Answers- 1(b), 2(a), 3(c), 4(a), 5(a), 6(b), 7(a), 8(b), 9(c) and 10(a)

Related Information:

Adverb
Adverbs of Reason/Purpose
Adverbs of Place
Adverbs of Manner
Adverbs of Degree/Intensity/Quantity
Adverbs of Comparison
Adverbs of Conjunction
Adverbs of Frequency
Adverbs of Affirmation and Negation
Adverbs of Comment and Viewpoint