Conjunctive Adverbs: Know Them When You See Them

Conjunctive adverbs are words which main use is to connect phrases and clauses. They enable smooth transitions between ideas. They make the writer’s meaning a little clearer.

List of Conjunctive Adverbs and Their Uses

Below is a list of some common conjunctive adverbs and when we use them in sentences.

Cause and Effect

accordingly

consequently

therefore

hence

subsequently

then

therefore

thus

hence

Addition

also

furthermore

besides

moreover

Contrast

conversely

however

instead

nevertheless

nonetheless

otherwise

still

Time

meanwhile

since

lately

Sequence

first

next

finally

Emphasis

indeed

definitely

Comparison

similarly

likewise

How to Form Conjunctive Adverbs

Conjunctive adverbs link two main clauses. In this case, they function as coordinating conjunctions, joining two dependent clauses. It is important to note that in order to connect these two clauses, we use the following structure: 

MAIN CLAUSE + ; + Conjunctive Adverb + , + MAIN CLAUSE

Note the use of a semicolon instead of a comma after the first main clause in the following examples.

The bad weather discouraged Tom to take his morning walk; moreover, he had many things to do that morning.

They are not easily motivated with money; otherwise, they would have just kept the truth about the issue.

She ate a whole bowl of soup; then, to her mom’s surprise, she finished two cups of rice.

• We also introduce, interrupt, or conclude one main clause using conjunctive adverbs. In this case, we often use commas in order to separate the conjunctive adverb from the other parts of the sentence.

This month, the company was supposed to take us on a company retreat. Instead, they were considering giving everyone a leadership training.

He didn’t want to keep seeing her anymore. He decided, nevertheless, to take her out one last time.

After surfing all afternoon, Matt was too tired to cook dinner. He did eat some leftovers, however.

• In cases where the break is weak, there is no need to use a comma.

Sofia called to inform that she can’t conduct her classes today. Stephanie will therefore have to fill in for her.

The shrimp dish triggered her allergies. Going to that seafood restaurant was not a good idea indeed.