Conjunctive Adverbs: Purpose and Use

A conjunctive adverb connects two independent clauses or sentences. Typically, adverbs modify
other words (verbs, adjectives, and other adverbs). Conjunctive adverbs, however, are used to
modify two independent clauses and join them together, behaving more like coordinating
conjunctions. Keep reading to learn more about conjunctive adverbs and to see several
conjunctive adverbs examples.

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Conjunctive Adverbs in Action

A conjunctive adverb, which can also be called an adverbial conjunction, brings together two
complete thoughts like a conjunction. They use the second clause to modify the first clause like an
adverb. Conjunctive adverbs can follow a semicolon or a period and typically have a comma after
them.

Download the printable reference list below for examples of common conjunctive adverbs.
View & Download PDF

It can help to group conjunctive adverbs according to their specific function: addition, cause and
effect, clarification, comparison, concession, contrast, emphasis, sequence, summary, and time.
Take a look at the examples below to see how you can use conjunctive adverbs in a sentence.

Adding Ideas

When you need to add an idea to your first clause, conjunctive adverbs are a great way to
transition between them. Here are some possible conjunctive adverbs to show addition:

 additionally

 also

 besides

 furthermore

 in addition
  moreover

Check out examples of these conjunctive adverbs:

 We should talk about Taylor’s grades; additionally, we should discuss her behavior.

 Chris enjoys making snow angels; also, he loves throwing snowballs.

 That car was too slow for me; besides, it was too expensive.

 You are grounded for three weeks; furthermore, you cannot text anyone on your phone.

 Male songbirds compete for food; in addition, they compete for mates.

 I loved that writer’s latest novel; moreover, her book of poetry is beautifully written.

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Cause and Effect

Conjunctive adverbs can show the cause and effect of an action. In these cases, the first clause is
the cause, and the conjunctive adverb transitions to the effect. These conjunctive adverbs include:

 accordingly

 consequently

 hence

 then

 therefore

 thus

Here are some examples of each of these conjunctive adverbs in sentences:

 The weather forecast predicts rain; accordingly, I will bring my umbrella.

 The thunder and lightning were intense; consequently, the crowd dispersed.

 Brian didn’t study for the test; hence, he failed.

 We need to research forms of renewable energy; then, we can move on from fossil fuels.

 We had very different opinions; therefore, we went our separate ways.

 Your mother and I were married fifteen years ago; thus, our family began.

Clarifying a Point

A strong point often requires examples or evidence to back it up. Conjunctive adverbs are a great
way to transition from your point to the evidence you need. For example (which is a conjunctive
adverb!):

 for example
  for instance

 namely

 that is

 e.g (latin acronim meaning EXAMPLE GRATIA)

You can use these conjunctive adverbs in the following sentences:

 Many species will be impacted by construction; for example, blue jays live in these trees.

 Gayle is a gifted artist; for instance, she sculpted the statue at Town Hall.

 I can think of many ways for you to help; namely, you can clean up this mess.

 This book isn’t enjoyable to read; that is, it starts too slowly.

Comparing Two Ideas

You can use conjunctive adverbs to compare two similar ideas. The first clause poses one idea, and
the second idea comes after the conjunctive adverb. Comparative conjunctive adverbs include:

 Likewise also in addition as well as equally

 Similarly in the same way by the same token correspondingly

You can use these conjunctive adverbs like this:

 Oliver loves to repair cars; likewise, his brother Simon enjoys it.

 The grapes are wilting in the sun; similarly, the tomatoes are overheated.

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Conceding a Point

When you’re making a point, conjunctive adverbs can help you concede a counterargument. Use
these words before acknowledging the other side:

 granted

 of course, naturally, certainly, to be sure, needless to say

Here are some examples of sentences with these conjunctive adverbs of concession:

 The polls favor one candidate over another; granted, polls have been wrong before.

 I trust my son to come home by curfew; of course, he’s been late twice this week.

Contrasting Ideas

Demonstrating contrast is another helpful function of conjunctive adverbs. They form a

relationship between two opposing ideas. Examples of conjunctive adverbs that show contrast
include:
  however

 instead

 nevertheless

 rather

 regardless

 Still nonetheless

Here are examples of these conjunctive adverbs in different sentences:

I wanted to see a scary movie, but my friend wanted to see a comedy.

 I wanted to see a scary movie; however, my friend wanted to see a comedy.

 We had planned on going out to dinner; instead, we cooked dinner at home.

 Enrique didn’t like to study; nevertheless, he worked hard to pass History. Yet

 This turkey isn’t very good; rather, it’s dry and unappealing.

 Jeremy prefers baseball to football; regardless, he always watches the Superbowl.

 Conjunctive adverbs act like conjunctions; still, they are adverbs.

Emphasizing a Point

Conjunctive adverbs can effectively emphasize a point. These adverbs connect two ideas that are
similar, with the second idea being a bit more emphatic. Check out these conjunctive adverbs that
create emphasis:

 again

 certainly

 indeed

 moreover

 of course

Try using each conjunctive adverb in a sentence to reinforce your point.

 Our kids really need a new traffic signal on the corner; again, it keeps the children safe.

 Stay away from the water; certainly, you don’t want to fall in.

 This is a wonderful investment; indeed, you’ll make your money back and then some.

 Eric hated cleaning the toilet; moreover, it was a waste of time.

 Decreasing homework leads to higher school engagement; of course, we want our

students to be engaged.
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Sequencing Events

Putting events in sequential order can make them easier to understand. Conjunctive adverbs are
helpful ways to transition between the order of events. Examples of these conjunctive adverbs
include:

 first

 next

 finally

See how you can use these conjunctive adverbs in these sentences:

 Let’s have a chat; first, I’ll pour you a cup of coffee.

 We have to get you new shoes; next, I have to get the groceries.

 Katie put the finishing touches on her project; finally, she signed her name.

Summarizing an Argument

Once you’ve finished making a point or an argument, it’s effective to sum things up. Use the
following conjunctive adverbs to summarize what you’ve just said:

 all in all

 in conclusion in conclusion

 in summary summing up in a nutshell

Here are some examples of these conjunctive adverbs that sum up a statement:

 We packed up the car and drove home; all in all, it was a great trip.

 Many children have been injured this year; in conclusion, the playground is unsafe.

 Dogs are great protectors and companions; in summary, we should get a dog.

Show Time

Finally, conjunctive adverbs can also signify time. They compare when the first clause occurred
versus when the second clause occurred. Examples of conjunctive adverbs that show time include:

 beforehand

 meanwhile

 lately

 now

 Since recently
You can use these conjunctive adverbs in sentences like these:

 The new policy is much better; beforehand, everyone had to enter their own forms.

 Sir Harold climbs the tower to rescue the princess; meanwhile, the dragon lurks nearby.

 Kyle was grateful for the award; lately, he'd been feeling unappreciated.

 The dogs used to play together on the sidewalk; now, they can play at the dog park.

 Our family welcomed a new baby; since her birth, we’ve been so happy.

Start Sentences With Conjunctive Adverbs

A conjunctive adverb can also be the first word in a sentence, as long as it connects the rest of the
sentence with the sentence before it. Take these examples from the sections above and see how
they work as two sentences.

 We should talk about Taylor’s grades. Additionally, we should discuss her behavior.

 I wanted to see a scary movie. However, my friend wanted to see a comedy.

 Many species will be impacted by construction. For example, blue jays live in these trees.

 Let’s have a chat. First, I’ll pour you a cup of coffee.

 The new policy is much better. Beforehand, everyone had to enter their own forms.

Notice that there are still commas after each conjunctive adverb, even when it starts in a
sentence. If your sentences with conjunctive adverbs sound awkward, consider splitting them into
two sentences.

Practice Your Conjunctive Adverbs

Now that you’ve seen examples of conjunctive adverbs and their functions, you’re ready to try
them out on your own. Work on these conjunctive adverb worksheets to see how well you
understand the concept. You can also review different types of conjunctions to vary your sentence
structure and writing style.

 (Coordinating Conjunctions: Essential Joining Words

Coordinating conjunctions are the most popular category of conjunctions. Simply put, they bring
equally important ideas together. They can join words, phrases and clauses of equal importance
and grammatical rank. Keep reading to see several coordinating conjunction examples that will
make their function clear.)

 List of Conjunctive Adverbs: Common Examples + Printable

Conjunctive adverbs connect two independent clauses or complete sentences. They have a
number of purposes, including showing contrast, sequencing events or ideas, demonstrating cause
and effect, and summarizing a point. Keep reading for a list of conjunctive adverbs that are more
common in everyday reading, and a few that can elevate your writing to a more sophisticated
level.
Conjunctive Adverb Worksheets

A conjunctive adverb is an adverb that functions as a conjunction – and a conjunction that

functions as an adverb! It connects two independent clauses together like a conjunction, and like
an adverb, it modifies the first clause with the second clause. Practice identifying and using these
parts of speech with the following conjunctive adverbs worksheets.

Worksheets on Conjunctive Adverbs

Conjunctive adverbs serve several purposes. However, their main purpose is to transition from or
connect to the next clause. Use these practice exercises to review what these purposes are in the
context of a sentence.

Worksheet #1: Identify the Conjunctive Adverbs

The first of the worksheets will have students identifying the conjunctive adverb in sentences. You
can download a printable version of the worksheet below for extra practice and additional
exercises.
View & Download PDF

Identify Conjunctive Adverbs Practice

In the following sentences, identify the conjunctive adverb.

Example: The movie was really bad; therefore, many people left early.

1. Jason did not study; hence, he failed the test.

2. You can go when the chores are done. Otherwise, you will miss the party.

3. We took blankets for the picnic; also, Sally brought food.

4. The rain was pouring down; still, no one left the beach.

5. You start cooking the steaks. Meanwhile, I will make the dessert.

Answers for Identify Conjunctive Adverbs Practice

Did you find all of the conjunctive adverbs? Here are the answers:

1. hence

2. otherwise

3. also

4. still

5. meanwhile

Worksheet #2: Punctuating Sentences With Conjunctive Adverbs

Conjunctive adverbs put two independent clauses or sentences together and make a new
sentence. The first sentence usually ends with a semicolon, and the conjunctive adverb is then
followed by a comma. However, the first clause may also end in a period, and the conjunctive
adverb might begin a new sentence (just like in this sentence). Using a comma instead of a
semicolon or period leads to run-on sentences. Try out this exercise or print the full worksheet
below.
View & Download PDF

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Conjunctive Adverbs Punctuation Practice

Correct the punctuation in these sentences.

Example: George had to sell his horse; thus, his riding days were over.

1. The snow kept Sally from jogging, anyway she had homework to do.

2. The dance finished early, finally we could get something to eat.

3. It is very hard to learn to swim of course it will be worth it in the end.

4. Bob really wants a new car, however he can not afford it.

5. We will go to a movie then we will have some dinner.

Answers for Conjunctive Adverbs Punctuation Practice

Check how well you did! Here are the answers for the second set of exercises:

1. The snow kept Sally from jogging; anyway, she had homework to do.
(or: The snow kept Sally from jogging. Anyway, she had homework to do.)

2. The dance finished early; finally, we could get something to eat.

(or: The dance finished early. Finally, we could get something to eat.)

3. It is very hard to learn to swim; of course, it will be worth it in the end.

(or: It is very hard to learn to swim. Of course, it will be worth it in the end.)

4. Bob really wants a new car; however, he can not afford it.
(or: Bob really wants a new car. However, he can not afford it.)

5. We will go to a movie; then, we will have some dinner.

(or: We will go to a movie. Then, we will have some dinner.)

Worksheet #3: Choose the Best Conjunctive Adverb

To combine two sentences together, you use a conjunctive adverb. In the next conjunctive adverb
worksheet, students choose a word that completes the sentence and recognize the proper use of
punctuation. Once you’ve completed this sample exercise, download the entire worksheet for
even more grammar practice.
View & Download PDF
Choose the Conjunctive Adverb Practice

Use each of these conjunctive adverbs in the following sentences: however, besides, later,
instead, still. You may only use each word once.

Example: I planned on going to the beach. Instead, I’m stuck inside.

1. He complained a lot; __________, no one helped him.

2. I really wanted the red one; __________, I bought the blue one.

3. Scott didn’t want to go on the trip; __________, he had a lot of work to do.

4. Our plans fell through; __________, we’ll stay home and watch a movie.

5. I will walk to the park; __________, I will stop for a hamburger.

Answers for “Choose the Conjunctive Adverb Practice”

Now it’s time to see if you put the conjunctive adverbs where they belong. Find the correct
answers for the exercise here.

1. He complained a lot; still, no one helped him.

2. I really wanted the red one; however, I bought the blue one.

3. Scott didn’t want to go on the trip; besides, he had a lot of work to do.

4. Our plans fell through; instead, we’ll stay home and watch a movie.

5. I will walk to the park; later, I will stop for a hamburger.

Conjunctive Adverbs Connect Ideas

Conjunctive adverbs are an effective way to transition between ideas. Now that you’ve had some
practice with these parts of speech, print out a handy list of conjunctive adverbs to reference as
you write. You can also check out these examples of comma splices that occur when you try to join
two independent clauses without any conjunction at all.

List of Conjunctive Adverbs: Common Examples + Printable

Conjunctive adverbs connect two independent clauses or complete sentences. They have a
number of purposes, including showing contrast, sequencing events or ideas, demonstrating cause
and effect, and summarizing a point. Keep reading for a list of conjunctive adverbs that are more
common in everyday reading, and a few that can elevate your writing to a more sophisticated
level.
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Common Conjunctive Adverbs List

You can use conjunctive adverbs for several different purposes. "However" and "comparatively"
are helpful ways to show the contrast between ideas, while "therefore" and "consequently" can
demonstrate cause and effect. Check out a list of common conjunctive adverbs that you're likely to
see in writing.

again all in all also

anyway besides certainly

finally for example for instance

however in addition in conclusion

lately meanwhile next

otherwis
instead still
e

that is then yet

Have you eaten yet? No, I haven’t. ::::::] I am hungry, yet Iwill not eat.

Some of these words can be used as other parts of speech. However, they are considered
conjunctive adverbs when used to link two independent clauses.

Sophisticated Conjunctive Adverbs List

Do you want to make your writing sound even more impressive while conveying the same
concept? Use these eye-catching conjunctive adverbs the next time you're joining two ideas.

accordingly additionally comparatively

consequentl
conversely equally
y

elsewhere further furthermore

incidentally indeed likewise

moreover namely nevertheless

nonetheless rather regardless

therefore thus undoubtedly

Many conjunctive adverbs function well as transition words in a larger piece of writing. These
adverbs help the reader understand where the current event or idea falls in context.

Examples of Conjunctive Adverbs in a Sentence

So how can you use a list of conjunctive adverbs to improve or vary your writing style? There are
many ways to join two ideas with one word that modifies the sentence's meaning. Check out these
example sentences to see how conjunctive adverbs join ideas.

 The workers are demanding better pay. Additionally, they want longer breaks.

 You must do your homework; otherwise, you might get a bad grade.

 I missed my interview. Consequently, I didn't get the job.

 Simon won't be attending the show; therefore, he has an extra ticket for anyone that can
use it.

 The freshmen haven't finished their project. Comparatively, the seniors have been done
for weeks.

 We broke up years ago. Still, I have feelings for Tony.

 Amy practiced the piano; meanwhile, her brother went out with his friends.

 Cody can't afford a new car. Nonetheless, he bought a huge truck.

 My mom loves dogs. However, she is allergic to them.

 We watched the fireworks show at night. All in all, it was a great experience.

You probably noticed that conjunctive adverbs can come after the period of the first independent
clause, or they can follow a semicolon that joins the two clauses. Either of these placements is
grammatically correct. It simply depends on your writing style and how you are communicating
your point.

Printable List of Conjunctive Adverbs

Take a look at a list of conjunctive adverbs in our handy, downloadable PDF. It's a great reference
tool for those moments when you want to improve your writing.

View & Download PDF

Use the chart in your writing notebook or classroom. Consult it when you're looking for just the
right way to join your two clauses or sentences.

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Conjunctive Adverbs Join and Modify

Conjunctive adverbs function as both conjunctions (by joining ideas) and as adverbs (by modifying
parts of the sentence). Indeed, they are some of the most helpful types of adverbs that you're
likely to encounter. Learn more about adverbs by studying what adverbs modify. You can also find
a list of adverbs that will strengthen your writing and help you communicate more clearly.

Comma Splice Examples and How to Fix Them

A comma splice is a common grammatical error in English. Writers most often make this mistake
when they are trying to "write by ear." It's a common idea that a comma indicates a pause where
a reader or speaker should take a breath, but simply adding commas when you feel a break is
needed is not a reliable way to make sure you're punctuating your sentences correctly.

Examples of comma splices: 1. I am a student, I live in Soyapango, I study at the University of El

Salvador, I’m studying a foreign language major.

2. Better written:::::::: I am a student, and I live in Soyapango; additionally, I study at the U.E.S, and
I am studying a foreign language major.

What Is a Comma Splice?

A comma splice is when two independent clauses are incorrectly joined by a comma to make one
sentence. To avoid comma splices, you first need to be able to identify an independent clause.

How To Fix Comma Splices

There are three ways to fix a comma splice. First, you can split the part before the comma and the
part after the comma into two complete sentences with a period (you could also use a semi-colon
for a less defined split). Here's how to fix our example from above:

I went to the mall. Jane was there. Second, you can join two independent clauses by adding
a coordinating conjunction such as "and" after the comma. For example: I went to the mall, and
Jane was there.
Finally, you can change one of the independent clauses to a dependent clause by adding
a subordinating conjunction. For example:

a.- I went to the mall, Jane was there.

b.- I went to the mall because Jane was there.
Note that if your dependent clause comes first, you must use a comma to join the two clauses. If
your dependent clause is second, no comma is required.

Fixing Comma Splices With Periods

You can split the two independent clauses in a comma splice into two complete sentences with a
period. For example:

 Comma Splice: I went to the mall, Jane was there.

 Correction: I went to the mall. Jane was there.

 Comma Splice: I love going to the movies, it’s so fun.

 Correction: I love going to the movies. It’s so fun.

 Comma Splice: She took the boy's cookies away, that was mean.

 Correction: She took the boy's cookies away. That was mean.

She took the boy’s cookies away; that was mean.

 Comma Splice: I think he's in love, he acts so weird now.

 Correction: I think he's in love. He acts so weird now.

 Comma Splice: She was sad when the cat ran away, she doesn't want to get a new one.

 Correction: She was sad when the cat ran away. She doesn't want to get a new one.

Alternately, you can use a semicolon for a less-defined split:

I went to the mall; Jane was there.

Examples of Comma Splices and Corrections

Check your understanding of comma splices by studying the examples and corrections below.

Fixing Comma Splices With Coordinating Conjunctions

You can also join two independent clauses by adding a coordinating conjunction, such as and, after
the comma. This can provide better flow and keep you from sounding too stilted and robotic. For
example:

 Comma Splice: I went to the mall, Jane was there.

 Correction: I went to the mall, and Jane was there.

 Comma Splice: I love going to the movies, it’s so fun.

 Correction: I love going to the movies, for it’s so fun.

 Comma Splice: She took the boy's cookies away, that was mean.

 Correction: She took the boy's cookies away, and that was mean.

 Comma Splice: I think he's in love, he acts so weird now.

 Correction: I think he's in love, for he acts so weird now.

 Comma Splice: She was sad when the cat ran away, she doesn't want to get a new one.

 Correction: She was sad when the cat ran away, but she doesn't want to get a new one.

Correcting by Making Two Sentences

Error Correction

I love going to the movies, it's so fun. I love going to the movies. It's so fun.

She took the boy's cookies away, that was

She took the boy's cookies away. That was mean.
mean.

The teacher was angry, the students were too The teacher was angry. The students were too
loud. loud.

I think he's in love, he acts so weird now. I think he's in love. He acts so weird now.

She was sad when the cat ran away, she doesn't She was sad when the cat ran away. She doesn't
want to get a new one. want to get a new one.

We went to the store, we bought milk. We went the to the store. We bought milk.

I often walk the dogs on the beach, they love I often walk the dogs on the beach. They love
splashing in the waves. splashing in the waves.

I can't wait to go on vacation, it will be hot and I can't wait to go on vacation. It will be hot and
sunny. sunny.

Fixing Comma Splices With Subordinating Conjunctions

Finally, you can change one of the independent clauses to a dependent clause by adding
a subordinating conjunction. Note that if the dependent clause comes first, you must use a comma
to join the two clauses. If your dependent clause is second, no comma is required.

 Comma Splice: I went to the mall, Jane was there.

 Correction: When I went to the mall, Jane was there.

 Correction: I went to the mall because Jane was there.

 Comma Splice: I love going to the movies, it’s so fun.

 Correction: I love going to the movies because it’s so fun.

 Comma Splice: She took the boy's cookies away, that was mean.

 Correction: When she took the boy’s cookies away, that was mean.

 Comma Splice: I think he's in love, he acts so weird now.

 Correction: I think he's in love because he acts so weird now.

 Comma Splice: She was sad when the cat ran away, she doesn't want to get a new one.

 Correction: Because she was sad when the cat ran away, she doesn't want to get a new
one.

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Correcting by Using Coordinating Conjunctions

Error Correction

I love going to the movies, it's so fun. I love going to the movies, for it's so fun.

She took the boy's cookies away, that was She took the boy's cookies away and that was
mean. mean.

The teacher was angry, the students were too The teacher was angry, for the students were too
loud. loud.

I think he's in love, he acts so weird now. I think he's in love, for he acts so weird now.

She was sad when the cat ran away, she She was sad when the cat ran away, so she doesn't
doesn't want to get a new one. want to get a new one.

We went to the store, we bought milk. We went the to the store and we bought milk.

I often walk the dogs on the beach, they love I often walk the dogs on the beach, for they love
splashing in the waves. splashing in the waves.

I can't wait to go on vacation, it will be hot and I can't wait to go on vacation, for it will be hot and
sunny. sunny.
Correcting by Creating a Dependent Clause

Error Correction

I love going to the movies, it's so fun. I love going to the movies because it's so fun.

She took the boy's cookies away, that was

She took the boy's cookies away, which was mean.
mean.

The teacher was angry, the students were The teacher was angry because the students were too
too loud. loud.

I think he's in love, he acts so weird now. I think he's in love because he acts so weird now.

She was sad when the cat ran away, she Since she was sad when the cat ran away, she doesn't
doesn't want to get a new one. want to get a new one.

We went to the store, we bought milk. We went the to the store where we bought milk.

I often walk the dogs on the beach, they I often walk the dogs on the beach since they love
love splashing in the waves. splashing in the waves.

I can't wait to go on vacation, it will be hot I can't wait to go on vacation as it will be hot and
and sunny. sunny.

Build Strong, Splice-Free Sentences

Get used to asking yourself if the two parts of your sentence can stand alone as independent
clauses. If so, you may have a comma splice on your hands. Try varying the way you correct
comma splices to make for more interesting sentences. When you master this trick, your English
grammar will automatically improve.

Strong Sentences

Once you get used to asking yourself if the two parts of your sentence can stand alone as
independent clauses, you'll be able to correct comma splices in your writing with ease. To add
interest to your written work, try varying the way you correct a comma splice so your sentences
don't all sound the same. When you master this trick, your English grammar will automatically
improve.