Correlative Conjunctions
Correlative conjunctions are pairs of conjunctions that join words, phrases, or clauses of equal grammatical rank. These pairs work in tandem to provide emphasis, contrast, or a combined relationship between the elements they connect.
Functions of Correlative Conjunctions
To better understand correlative conjunctions and their functions, let’s look at them in a table format:
| Correlative Conjunction Pair | Function |
|---|---|
| Either…or | Presents a choice between two alternatives. |
| Neither…nor | Connects two negative alternatives. |
| Both…and | Combines two positive alternatives. |
| Not only…but also | Emphasizes the inclusion of an additional element. |
| Whether…or | Expresses doubt or an alternative between two options. |
| As…as | Used to compare the equality or similarity between two elements. |
| Such…that | Indicates a cause-and-effect relationship where the degree or extent is emphasized. |
Example Sentences Using Correlative Conjunctions
Either…or:
Example: You can either have the cake or the ice cream.
➔Explanation: “Either…or” presents a choice between having cake or ice cream.
Neither…nor:
Example: She is neither going to the concert nor staying at home.
➔Explanation: “Neither…nor” connects two negative alternatives (not going to the concert and not staying at home).
Both…and:
Example: Both the teacher and the students were excited about the new project.
➔Explanation: “Both…and” combines two positive elements (the teacher and the students).
Not only…but also:
Example: He is not only a talented musician but also a skilled painter.
➔Explanation: “Not only…but also” emphasizes the inclusion of another positive quality (being a skilled painter) in addition to being a talented musician.
Whether…or:
Example: She couldn’t decide whether to go to the beach or to the mountains for vacation.
➔Explanation: “Whether…or” expresses doubt between two options (going to the beach or the mountains).
As…as:
Example: She is as smart as her older sister.
➔Explanation: “As…as” compares the intelligence of two individuals, indicating equality.
Such…that:
Example: The movie was such a hit that it broke all box office records.
➔Explanation: “Such…that” indicates a cause-and-effect relationship where the degree of success (a hit movie) leads to breaking box office records.