Adverbial Conjunctions (Conjunctive Adverbs)
Conjunctive adverbs (however, therefore, moreover, otherwise, meanwhile, nevertheless…) link two independent clauses and show the relationship between ideas.
| Adverb | Shows | Example |
|---|---|---|
| however / nevertheless | contrast | It rained; however, we played. |
| therefore / thus | result | He failed; therefore, he repeated. |
| moreover / furthermore | addition | It's cheap; moreover, it's good. |
| otherwise | consequence | Hurry, otherwise you'll be late. |
| meanwhile | time | She cooked; meanwhile, he cleaned. |
Punctuation: when joining two sentences, use a semicolon before and a comma after: I was tired; therefore, I slept.
Tip: Conjunctive adverbs are not coordinating conjunctions. Use a semicolon (not just a comma) before them when joining two clauses.
Common mistake: "It rained, however we played" (comma splice). Correct: "It rained; however, we played."
✏️ Test Yourself
1. He studied hard; ___, he passed.
2. It's old; ___, it works well.
3. Run, ___ you'll miss the bus.
4. It's cheap; ___, it's tasty.
📒 Words to learn
“For defeating an antagonist we have to be united.”
“We are altering our methodology.”
“He needs to amend his thoughts.”
“When they tortured us, our yelling moments were audible.”
“The youth is being accustomed of drugs.”