conjunction

12 synonyms and 2 antonyms for conjunction, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.

Noun — A word that connects other words, phrases, or clauses, such as "and", "but", or "because".

Synonyms

Everyday swaps

Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.

combination union association

Less common

Still standard English, but they carry more weight.

coincidence junction alignment

Rare, literary or technical

Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.

concurrence connective conjugation colligation conjunctive continuative

Synonyms by Meaning

1. noun

A word that connects other words, phrases, or clauses, such as "and", "but", or "because".

“In the sentence, "because" is a conjunction linking two ideas.”

combination union concurrence coincidence association connective conjugation colligation conjunctive junction alignment continuative

2. noun

The act or state of two or more things occurring or joining together.

“The charity works in conjunction with local schools to run the programme.”

Opposites

separation

3. noun

In astronomy, an alignment where two celestial bodies appear at the same position in the sky as seen from Earth.

“The next conjunction of the two planets will be visible after sunset.”

Opposites

opposition

How to use conjunction

The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.

in conjunction with a coordinating conjunction

Etymology

From Latin coniunctio, "a joining", from coniungere ("to join together").

Full origin of conjunction →

Frequently asked questions

What does “conjunction” mean?

The word “conjunction” means a word that connects other words, phrases, or clauses, such as "and", "but", or "because". In plain terms, either a joining word in grammar, or the general idea of things happening together.

How do you pronounce “conjunction”?

“Conjunction” is pronounced kuhn-JUHNGK-shn (/kənˈd͡ʒʌŋk.ʃn̩/ in IPA).

How do you use “conjunction” in a sentence?

Here is “conjunction” used in a sentence: “"Although" is a conjunction that introduces a contrast.”

What part of speech is “conjunction”?

“Conjunction” is a noun.

Where does the word “conjunction” come from?

The word “conjunction” comes from Latin. From Latin coniunctio, "a joining", from coniungere ("to join together").

Is “conjunction” a common word?

“Conjunction” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.

How many meanings does “conjunction” have?

“Conjunction” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a word that connects other words, phrases, or clauses, such as "and", "but", or "because".

What is the difference between a conjunction and a preposition?

A conjunction connects words, phrases, or clauses, such as "and," "but," or "because." A preposition links a noun or pronoun to the rest of the sentence and shows a relationship such as place or time, such as "in," "on," or "before."

What is the difference between coordinating and subordinating conjunctions?

Coordinating conjunctions, such as "and," "but," and "or," join words or clauses of equal grammatical weight. Subordinating conjunctions, such as "because," "although," and "if," attach a dependent clause to a main clause.

Can you start a sentence with a conjunction?

Yes. Although once discouraged, beginning a sentence with a conjunction such as "and" or "but" is widely accepted and common in good writing. It can add emphasis or a more conversational rhythm.

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union association opposition combination separation coincidence junction alignment conjugation concurrence connective

Nearby words

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