conjunction
kuhn-JUHNGK-shn
Conjunction (noun) means a word that connects other words, phrases, or clauses, such as "and", "but", or "because". Example: “In the sentence, "because" is a conjunction linking two ideas.”
noun
1
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."
"Pupils underline each conjunction, such as "and" or "but", in the exercise."
""Although" is a conjunction that introduces a contrast."
2
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."
"A conjunction of luck and hard work led to her success."
"The accident happened in conjunction with poor weather and a mechanical fault."
3
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."
"Astronomers use a telescope to watch a conjunction of the Moon and a bright star."
"Skywatchers gathered to see the conjunction of Venus and Jupiter."
How to use conjunction
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishEither a joining word in grammar, or the general idea of things happening together.
Easily confused with
Common pairings
in conjunction with
a coordinating conjunction
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Word forms
- Plural
- conjunctions
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
In the sentence, "because" is a _____ linking two ideas.
Etymology
From Latin coniunctio, "a joining", from coniungere ("to join together").
Synonyms
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combination
union
concurrence
coincidence
association
connective
conjugation
colligation
conjunctive
junction
alignment
continuative
Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for conjunction
region
ablation
allusion
emulsion
ideation
novation
diffusion
elocution
extension
oxidation
perfusion
selection
See all rhymes for 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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