What Is a Conjunctive Adverb? | And How to Use Them?

What Is a Conjunctive Adverb And How to Use Them?

A conjunctive adverb connects 2 (two) independent clauses or sentences. Generally, adverbs modify other words (verbs, adjectives, and other adverbs). Conjunctive adverbs, however, are used to modify two independent clauses and join them together, behaving like coordinating conjunctions. Continue reading to learn more about conjunctive adverbs and see several examples of conjunctive adverbs.

What Is a Conjunctive Adverb?

A connecting adverb is a part of speech that joins two independent clauses in a sentence. Sometimes called an adverb, linking adjectives are unique from other adverbial parts of speech. Adverbs usually modify other verbs, adverbs, or adjectives. Collective adverbs, meanwhile, act like conjunctions, with the second clause modifying the first. Conjunctive adverbs are often followed by a semicolon or em-dash followed by a comma. This is the case of the conjunctive adjective "eventually" in the example sentence "He practiced soccer for years; finally, he made the school team."

How to Use Conjunctive Adverbs Properly?

You can usually use conjunctive adverbs to show cause and effect. The first clause will set up an idea or event, and the second clause will be bridged by a semicolon, expanding on it.

1. Start with an independent clause. A conjunctive adverb follows an independent clause, a clause that is an independent sentence. Think of it as a second-order effect. Start with a simple example sentence, such as "He rides his bike every morning."
2. Add a semicolon. Semicolons help ensure a smooth transition between the first clause and the rest of the sentence. Add a semicolon instead of a period after your sentence to set up a conjunctive adverb and require a second clause. ("Using a comma where a semicolon should be used creates a punctuation error called a comma splice, a type of run-on sentence.") Now, our example sentence would read, "He rides his bike every morning;" which is a conjunctive adverb, and is incomplete without a second cause.
3. Choose a conjunctive adverb. Conjunctive adverbs act as modifiers of your first (1st) clause and bridge it to the second. The one you choose will dictate the tone and outcome of the sentence. Choosing a conjunctive adverb like "however," "also," or "for example" covers all of the second clause. Example sentences “He rides his bike every morning; Therefore,” almost done—a final independent clause would complete the entire sentence.
4. End with a final independent clause. With "therefore" as a conjunctive adverb, complete the example sentences logically: “He rides his bike every morning; So, he's ready for the race." With two independent clauses and a linking verb, this is a compound sentence.

Examples of Conjunctive Adverbs

In the following examples the conjunctive adverbs are in bold for easy identification.

• Jerry kept talking in class; therefore, she got in trouble.
• He went into the store; however, he didn’t find anything he wanted to buy.
• I like him a lot; in fact, I think we should be best friends.
• Your cat got into my yard; in addition, she cat up my petunias.
• You’re my best friend; nonetheless, I feel like you are taking advantage of me.
• My car payment is high; on the other hand, I really enjoy driving such nice vehicle.

Check Your Understanding of Conjunctive Adverbs

Fill in the gaps by choosing the most appropriate conjunctive adverbs from the words below.

(undoubtedly, however, then, otherwise, additionally, finally, hence, thus, certainly, therefore)

1. Harry left home early; ___________, she didn't reach school in time for the assembly.
2. He must work hard; __________, he will not be able to get good marks.
3. We've seen every new movie released on Friday. _________, Home was the best movie.
4. David was waiting for his result the whole day. ________, the results were published around 5 p.m.
5. The children were already feeling hot; ____________, we decided to turn on the AC.
6. The question paper did not arrive on time. __________, this created a huge uneasiness among students and teachers.
7. You will be told what you should bring with you when you arrive for the trip; ____________, you will be given an itinerary so that you are well aware of the activities that will take place.
8. The students did not finish their projects, and ___________, they were not allowed to play.
9. I will complete my Maths project, and ________, I will start working on Chemistry assignment.
10. Alex practised very well, and ________, he got the 2nd prize.

Let us check if you have understood well.

1. Harry left home early; however, she didn't reach school in time for the assembly.
2. He must work hard; otherwise, he will not be able to get good marks.
3. We've seen every new movie released on Friday. Undoubtedly, Home was the best movie.
4. David was waiting for his result the whole day. Finally, the results were published around 5 p. m.
5. The  children were already feeling hot; hence, we decided to turn on the AC.
6. The question paper did not arrive on time. Certainly, this created a huge uneasiness among students and teachers.
7. You will be told what you should bring with you when you arrive for the trip; additionally, you will be given an itinerary so that you are well aware of the activities that will take place.
8. The students did not finish their projects, and therefore, they were not allowed to play.
9. I will complete my Maths project, and then, I will start working on Chemistry assignment.
10. Alex practised very well, and thus, got the 2nd prize.

Frequently Asked Questions on Conjunctive Adverbs

What is a conjunctive adverb?

Answer: A conjunctive adverb is a part of speech that is an adverb by design but has the properties of a conjunction. It can be used to connect different clauses or sentences, to show cause and effect, order and contrast between two clauses or sentences.

What is the definition of a conjunctive adverb?

Answer: According to Collins Dictionary, a conjunctive adverb is defined as "to connect two clauses or sentences, however or furthermore." And according to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, the word 'connector' is defined as something "having or acting like a connection." The Merriam-Webster dictionary defines the quality of a part of speech as 'conjunctive' as "relating to a connection (= linking word), or expressing a link between two things which are both true.

How Do You Identify Conjunctive Adverbs?

Answer: Conjunctive adverbs indicate that the clause that follows modifies the preceding clause; Thus, connecting two separate concepts in a similar way. However, a conjunctive adverb must be preceded by a full stop (.) or followed by a semicolon (;) and a comma (,).