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: Conjunctive adverbs are also known as transitional phrases. They act like a bridge (i.e. provide the transition) from one idea to the next idea. The following are also transitional phrases:

Examples of Conjunctive Adverbs in Sentences

Here are some examples of conjunctive adverbs in sentences:

  • The instructor's English is poor; consequently, they all failed the exam.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • You failed to meet the deadline. Therefore, the deal is off.
  • 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: Note: A conjunctive adverb bridging two independent clauses is followed by a comma but not preceded by one.
    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:


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    See Also

    Advice or advise? List of easily confused words