Level: Intermediate-Advanced
Correlative conjunctions function much like coordinating conjunctions – to relate one sentence element to another. The only difference between correlative conjunctions from coordinating conjunctions is that they always come in pairs.
Here are some of the most common pairs of correlative conjunctions:
either/or
I am saving up to go on a trip either to Machu Picchu or Petra.
both/and
I’ll have both the cashmere and wool jacket.
whether/or
They were wondering whether to go for a drive or take a plane to Lisbon.
neither/nor
Neither our boss nor our client approved this proposal.
not only/but also
He not only made a scene at the party but he also disrespected the hosts.
not/but
She is in need not of financial but moral support from her family and friends.
as/as
Swimming is not as dangerous as bungee jumping.
such/that
It was such a difficult project that I ended up getting burned-out.
scarcely/when
She had scarcely arrived to work when she got a call from her supervisor.
as many/as
There weren’t as many books to choose from at the bookstore as I thought.
no sooner/than
She’d no sooner started working than there was a power outage and she had no electricity.
rather/than
I’d rather get a taxi than take the bus.