Conjunctive Adverb: What It Is and How To Use It

Do you know what a conjunctive adverb is? This article will provide you with all of the information you need on conjunctive adverbs, including its definition, usage, example sentences, and more!

Your writing, at its best

Compose bold, clear, mistake-free, writing with Grammarly's AI-powered writing assistant

What is a conjunctive adverb?

According to Your Dictionary, conjunctive adverbs connect two independent clauses or complete sentences. They are used for showing contrast, sequencing events or ideas, demonstrating cause and effect, and summarizing a point. A common conjunctive adverbs list includes:

  •  that is
  •  still
  •  nonetheless
  •  so
  •  thus
  •  nevertheless
  •  namely
  •  further
  •  undoubtedly
  •  next
  •  incidentally
  •  conversely
  •  lately
  •  then
  •  yet
  •  indeed
  •  furthermore
  •  elsewhere
  •  rather
  •  in conclusion
  •  again
  •  finally
  •  meanwhile
  •  moreover
  •  otherwise
  •  all in all
  •  therefore
  •  however
  •  besides
  •  consequently
  •  accordingly
  •  additionally
  •  also
  •  regardless
  •  equally
  •  likewise
  •  certainly
  •  in addition
  •  anyway
  •  for instance
  •  for example
  •  comparatively

A main clause or first clause in sentence structure might transition into a second clause using a conjunctive adverb along with punctuation like a comma or semicolon along with a coordinating conjunction. Conjunctive adverbs of concession help for smooth transitions between complete thoughts or a first idea and second idea. These are great to use to vary writing style. Common errors include a comma splice before the second independent clause and a lack of clarity in short clauses

What are examples of conjunctive adverbs?

A conjunctive adverb can be used in many different contexts in the English language. Trying to use a word or literary technique in a sentence is one of the best ways to memorize what it is, but you can also try making flashcards or quizzes that test your knowledge. Try using this term of the day in a sentence today! Below are a couple of examples of conjunctive adverb that can help get you started incorporating this tool into your everyday use.  Take a look at the following sentences of conjunctive adverb examples from Your Dictionary and Ginger and see how many you can identify the conjunctive adverb in!

  •  Jeremy kept talking in class about the answer key to the exam; therefore, he got in trouble.
  •  Let’s have a chat; first, I’ll pour you a cup of coffee and give you some toffees.
  •  Oliver loves to repair cars; likewise, his brother Simon enjoys it.
  •  The dogs used to play together on the sidewalk; now, they can play at the dog park.
  •  Simon won’t be attending the show; therefore, he has an extra ticket for anyone that can use it.
  •  You’re my friend; nonetheless, I feel like you’re taking advantage of me.
  •  Jeremy prefers baseball to football; regardless, he always watches the Superbowl.
  •  We have to get you new shoes; next, I have to get the groceries.
  •  The thunder and lightning were intense; consequently, the crowd dispersed.
  •  I trust my son to come home by curfew; of course, he’s been late twice this week.
  •  We had very different opinions; therefore, we went our separate ways.
  •  This is a wonderful investment; indeed, you’ll make your money back and then some.
  •  Dogs are great protectors and companions; in summary, we should get a special breed of dog.
  •  I can think of many ways for you to help; namely, you can clean up this mess tomorrow.
  •  This book isn’t enjoyable to read; that is, it starts too slowly.
  •  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.
  •  Enrique didn’t like to study; nevertheless, he worked hard to pass History.
  •  She went into the store; however, she didn’t find anything she wanted to buy except beer.
  •  The polls favor one candidate over another; granted, polls have been wrong before.
  •  I like you a lot; in fact, I think we should be best friends and go on a vacation.
  •  The grapes are wilting in the sun; similarly, the tomatoes are overheated.
  •  Cody can’t afford a new car. Nonetheless, he bought a huge truck.
  •  Decreasing homework leads to higher school engagement; of course, we want our students to be engaged.
  •  Stay away from the water; certainly, you don’t want to fall in.
  •  Many children have been injured this year; in conclusion, the playground is unsafe.
  •  The new policy is much better; beforehand, everyone had to enter their own forms.
  •  Our family welcomed a new baby; since her birth, we’ve been so happy.
  •  The fanboys didn’t study for the test; hence, they failed.
  •  Eric hated cleaning the toilet; moreover, it was a waste of time.
  •  That bike was too slow for me; besides, it was too expensive.
  •  Many species will be impacted by construction; for example, blue jays live in these trees.
  •  Kyle was grateful for the award; lately, he’d been feeling unappreciated.
  •  Gayle is a gifted artist; for instance, she sculpted the statue at Town Hall.
  •  Male songbirds compete for food; in addition, they compete for mates.
  •  The workers are demanding better pay. Additionally, they want longer breaks.
  •  The weather forecast predicts rain; accordingly, I will bring my umbrella.
  •  Sir Harold climbs the tower to rescue the princess; meanwhile, the dragon lurks nearby.
  •  We had planned on going out to dinner; instead, we cooked dinner at home.
  •  Your dog got into my yard; in addition, he dug up my petunias.
  •  We need to research forms of renewable energy; then, we can move on from fossil fuels.
  •  We watched the fireworks show at night. All in all, it was a great experience.
  •  I missed my interview. Consequently, I didn’t get the job.
  •  You must do your homework; otherwise, you might get a bad grade.
  •  Amy practiced the piano; meanwhile, her brother went out with his friends.
  •  I loved that writer’s latest novel; moreover, my own writing in my book of poetry is beautifully written.
  •  I wanted to see a scary movie; however, my friend wanted to see a comedy.
  •  We should talk about Taylor’s grades; additionally, we should discuss her behavior.
  •  Conjunctive adverbs act like conjunctions; still, they are adverbs.
  •  We packed up the car and drove home; all in all, it was a great trip.
  •  Our kids really need a new traffic signal on the corner; again, it keeps the children safe.
  •  Katie put the finishing touches on her project; finally, she signed her name.
  •  This turkey isn’t very good; rather, it’s dry and unappealing.
  •  My car payments are high; on the other hand, I really enjoy driving such a nice vehicle.
  •  Chris enjoys making snow angels; also, he loves throwing snowballs.
  •  Your mother and I were married fifteen years ago; thus, our family began.
  •  You are grounded for three weeks; furthermore, you cannot text anyone on your phone.
  •  My mom loves dogs. However, she is allergic to them.

Overall, a conjunctive adverb connects two independent clauses or complete sentences.

Sources:

  1. Glossary of grammatical terms | OED 
  2. ist of Conjunctive Adverbs: Common Examples + Printable | Your Dictionary 
  3. adverb: meaning, origin, translation | Word Sense 
  4. Conjunctive Adverbs – Examples & Exercises | GingerÂ