If you’re learning English grammar, understanding correlative conjunctions and example sentences can help you make your writing and speaking clearer and more interesting. Correlative conjunctions are special pairs of words that work together to connect parts of a sentence. Let’s explore them with easy explanations and simple examples!
correlative conjunctions and example sentences
| Correlative Conjunction | Example |
| Both…and | Both the book and the movie were excellent. |
| Either…or | You can either come to the party or stay home. |
| Neither…nor | Neither the teacher nor the students were happy with the result. |
| Not only…but also | Not only did she finish her project early, but she also received top marks. |
| Whether…or | I’m undecided whether I should study abroad or stay in my hometown. |
| Either…or | You can either watch TV or go for a walk in the park. |
| Neither…nor | Neither the red shirt nor the blue one fits me properly. |
| Not only…but also | Not only is she a great singer, but she’s also an accomplished dancer. |
| Whether…or | I’m not sure whether I should buy the blue dress or the green one. |
| Both…and | Both the cat and the dog are sleeping in the sun. |
| Either…or | You can either choose the red pen or the blue one. |
| Neither…nor | Neither the cake nor the cookies were left after the party. |
| Not only…but also | Not only did she finish her homework, but she also cleaned her room. |
| Whether…or | I can’t decide whether to go out for dinner or cook at home. |
Common Correlative Conjunction Pairs
Here are some of the most used correlative conjunction pairs:
| Pair | Example |
|---|---|
| Both … and | Both the dog and the cat are sleeping. |
| Either … or | You can either eat now or later. |
| Neither … nor | Neither the boys nor the girls were late. |
| Not only … but also | She is not only kind but also funny. |
| Whether … or | I don’t know whether to stay or go. |
| As … as | He is as fast as a cheetah. |
| No sooner … than | No sooner had I arrived than the bell rang. |
| Rather … than | I’d rather sleep than study tonight. |
correlative conjunctions examples sentences
Here are 15 simple example sentences using correlative conjunctions:
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Either you study now or you’ll regret it later.
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Both Sarah and Emma love to sing.
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Neither the teacher nor the students were ready.
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Not only is he a great player but also a great coach.
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I will come whether it rains or shines.
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She is as smart as her brother.
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No sooner had I opened the door than the dog ran out.
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Such was his kindness that everyone liked him.
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I would rather read a book than watch TV.
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Scarcely had we left when it started raining.
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Both my mom and dad cook dinner.
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You must either call me or send a message.
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Neither James nor his sister attended the party.
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Not only do they travel a lot but they also share great stories.
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Whether you win or lose, it’s the effort that matters.
Tips to Use Correlative Conjunctions Correctly
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Use parallel structure: the parts you connect should be similar (both nouns, verbs, phrases, etc.).
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✅ Correct: She is not only talented but also hardworking.
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❌ Wrong: She is not only talented but also works hard.
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Don’t leave one part of the pair out. They must come together.
Final Thoughts
Understanding correlative conjunctions and example sentences is a simple step to stronger English. These paired words help you link ideas smoothly and make your writing more exciting. Practice with examples, and soon you’ll be using them like a pro!
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