Conjunctive Adverbs in English Grammar

Conjunctive adverbs, or adverbial conjunctions, are also known as transitional phrases. We use them to join two independent ideas, whether it's two different clauses within a sentence or two complete sentences. They use the second clause to modify the first clause like an adverb.

Some of the most commonly used English conjunctive adverbs include words like also, however, therefore, nevertheless, meanwhile, otherwise but can also be phrases - for example, as a result, on the contrary.

Functions

Rule 1: We use conjunctive adverbs to show a relationship between two opposing ideas in one sentence or demonstrate contrast.

Rule 2: We use conjunctive adverbs to add ideas to the first clause or link the ideas in two or more sentences.

Rule 3: We use conjunctive adverbs to show the cause and effect of an action.

Rule 4: We use conjunctive adverbs to clarify a point by transitioning to the evidence to back it up.

Rule 5: We use conjunctive adverbs to compare two similar ideas.

Rule 6: We can also use conjunctive adverbs to concede a point.

Rule 7: We can also use conjunctive adverbs to emphasize a point.

Rule 8: We can also use conjunctive adverbs to summarize an argument.

Rule 9: We can also use conjunctive adverbs to show time.

Punctuation and Placement

Rule 10: Conjunctive adverbs follow a semicolon when connecting two independent clauses within a sentence or a period when connecting two complete sentences. Typically, conjunctive adverbs have a comma after them.

Rule 11: We can place a conjunctive adverb at the beginning of a sentence, as long as it connects the rest of the sentence with the previous one.