Conjunctive Adverbs
What Are Conjunctive Adverbs? (with Examples)
A conjunctive adverb acts as a link between two sentences or two independent clauses. The job of a conjunctive adverb is to make it clear how the ideas either side of the conjunctive adverb are related. It also provides a smooth transition from one idea to the next.Examples of Conjunctive Adverbs
The following are conjunctive adverbs:- also
- consequently
- furthermore
- however
- incidentally
- indeed
- likewise
- meanwhile
- nevertheless
- nonetheless
- therefore
- as a result
- as a consequence
- for example
- on the contrary
Examples of Conjunctive Adverbs in Sentences
Here are some examples of conjunctive adverbs in sentences:Do Not Use a Comma before a Conjunctive Adverb
When a conjunctive adverb acts as a bridge between two independent clauses, you cannot precede it with a comma. A conjunctive adverb either starts a new sentence or, if you need a smooth transition between your ideas, is preceded by a semicolon..
It is a common mistake to precede a conjunctive adverb between two independent clauses with a comma (especially with the word however.) This is called a run-on error (or a comma fault). For example:
- The instructor's English is poor, consequently, they all failed the exam.
- I know Mr Evans was drunk, however, I am not responsible for his actions.
- You failed to meet the deadline, therefore, the deal is off.
The word however routinely starts a sentence. Occasionally, it can be preceded by a semicolon to give a smooth transition between ideas.
Preceding however (or any conjunctive adverb) with a comma and writing a new sentence is a very common mistake (called a run-on error or a comma-fault error. For example:
Preceding however (or any conjunctive adverb) with a comma and writing a new sentence is a very common mistake (called a run-on error or a comma-fault error. For example:
- I normally like toffees, however, I dislike these ones.
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