This is a complete and advanced-level theory of Conjunctions designed for UPSC, State PSC, CDS, CAPF, and other high-level competitive exams.
1️⃣ Definition of Conjunction
A Conjunction is a word that connects words, phrases, clauses, or sentences.
It helps in forming cohesive and complex sentences.
Examples:
- I like tea and coffee.
- He failed, but he tried again.
- You can go, or you can stay.
2️⃣ Types of Conjunctions (Advanced Classification)
(A) Coordinating Conjunctions
Connects words, phrases, or independent clauses of equal importance.
FANBOYS: For, And, Nor, But, Or, Yet, So
Examples:
- I wanted to go, but it rained.
- She is talented and hardworking.
(B) Subordinating Conjunctions
Connects a dependent clause (subordinate) to an independent clause.
Common ones: because, since, although, if, unless, while, after, before
Examples:
- I stayed home because it was raining.
- Although he was tired, he continued working.
UPSC Tip: Often tested in complex sentence correction.
(C) Correlative Conjunctions
Used in pairs to connect balanced words or clauses.
Common pairs: either…or, neither…nor, both…and, not only…but also, whether…or
Examples:
- She will either join the meeting or submit her report.
- He is not only intelligent but also diligent.
3️⃣ Conjunction Placement Rules
(A) Coordinating Conjunctions
- Connects words, phrases, or clauses of equal rank.
- Usually placed between the items being joined.
✔ I like apples and oranges.
✔ He studied hard, so he passed the exam.
(B) Subordinating Conjunctions
- Introduces dependent clause.
- Dependent clause can come before or after main clause.
✔ Although it was raining, we went out.
✔ We went out although it was raining.
- Use comma if subordinate clause comes first.
- No comma if it comes after.
(C) Correlative Conjunctions
- Must balance elements on both sides.
- Often used in complex sentences for emphasis.
✔ Both the manager and the staff were present.
✔ Either you study hard or you fail.
4️⃣ Conjunction in Complex Sentence Structures
- Coordinating → simple connection
- Subordinating → shows cause, condition, time, contrast
- Correlative → emphasizes relationship between clauses
Examples of complex usage:
- She will succeed if she works hard and stays focused.
- Not only did he complete the project but also submitted it early.
5️⃣ Conjunctions and Punctuation (Advanced UPSC Rule)
- Use comma before coordinating conjunction connecting independent clauses:
✔ I studied hard, but I did not pass.
- Do not use comma with conjunction connecting words or phrases:
✔ I like tea and coffee.
- Use semicolon for long clauses:
✔ He wanted to go; but it was too late.
6️⃣ Common Errors in Conjunctions
| Error | Correct | Note |
|---|---|---|
| He is intelligent but also hardworking. | He is not only intelligent but also hardworking. | Proper correlative pair |
| I will go, or not. | I will go or not. | Avoid extra comma |
| Although he was tired but he continued. | Although he was tired, he continued. | Avoid double conjunction |
| Either…nor, Neither…or | Either…or, Neither…nor | Correct pair |
| He failed, and because he did not study. | He failed because he did not study. | Avoid mixing coordinating + subordinating |
7️⃣ Advanced UPSC Applications
- Essay writing – Use correlative conjunctions to improve style:
✔ Not only is transparency important but also accountability. - Error detection – Subordinate and correlative conjunctions are tested.
- Complex sentences – Use subordinating conjunctions to show:
- Cause → because, since
- Contrast → although, whereas, while
- Condition → if, unless
- Time → before, after, until
8️⃣ Conjunction vs Preposition Confusion
- Conjunction connects clauses.
- Preposition connects noun/pronoun to rest of sentence.
✔ I stayed home because it rained. (conjunction)
✔ He succeeded because of his hard work. (preposition)
🎯 What UPSC / PSC Tests in Conjunctions
- Correct use of coordinating conjunctions
- Subordinating conjunction in complex sentences
- Correlative conjunction pair balance
- Punctuation with conjunctions
- Avoidance of double conjunctions or redundancy
- Error detection in Mains & Prelims