Conjunctive Adverbs
A conjunctive adverb connects two independent clauses or sentences. Typically, adverbs
modify other words (verbs, adjectives and other adverbs). Conjunctive adverbs, however, are
used to modify two independent clauses and join them together, behaving more like
coordinating conjunctions.
A conjunctive adverb, which can also be called an adverbial conjunction, brings together two
complete thoughts like a conjunction. They use the second clause to modify the first clause
like an adverb. Conjunctive adverbs can follow a semicolon or a period and typically have a
comma after them.
It can help to group conjunctive adverbs according to their specific function: addition, cause
and effect, clarification, comparison, concession, contrast, emphasis, sequence,
summary, and time.
Adding Ideas
When you need to add an idea to your first clause, conjunctive adverbs are a great way to
transition between them. Here are some possible conjunctive adverbs to show addition:
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additionally
also
besides
furthermore
in addition
moreover
Examples:
We should talk about Taylor’s grades; additionally, we should discuss her behaviour.
Chris enjoys making snow angels; also, he loves throwing snowballs.
That car was too slow for me; besides, it was too expensive.
You are grounded for three weeks; furthermore, you cannot text anyone on your
phone.
5. Male songbirds compete for food; in addition, they compete for mates.
6. I loved that writer’s latest novel; moreover, her book of poetry is beautifully written.
1.
2.
3.
4.
Cause and Effect
Conjunctive adverbs can show the cause and effect of an action. In these cases, the first
clause is the cause, and the conjunctive adverb transitions to the effect. These conjunctive
adverbs include:
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accordingly
consequently
hence
then
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therefore
thus
Examples of each of these conjunctive adverbs in sentences:
1.
2.
3.
4.
The weather forecast predicts rain; accordingly, I will bring my umbrella.
The thunder and lightning were intense; consequently, the crowd dispersed.
Brian didn’t study for the test; hence, he failed.
We need to research forms of renewable energy; then, we can move on from fossil
fuels.
5. We had very different opinions; therefore, we went our separate ways.
6. Your mother and I were married fifteen years ago; thus, our family began.
Clarifying a Point
A strong point often requires examples or evidence to back it up. Conjunctive adverbs are a
great way to transition from your point to the evidence you need. For example, (which is a
conjunctive adverb!):
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for example
for instance
namely
that is
You can use these conjunctive adverbs in the following sentences:
1. Many species will be impacted by construction; for example, blue jays live in these
trees.
2. Gayle is a gifted artist; for instance, she sculpted the statue at Town Hall.
3. I can think of many ways for you to help; namely, you can clean up this mess.
4. This book isn’t enjoyable to read; that is, it starts too slowly.
Comparing Two Ideas
You can use conjunctive adverbs to compare two similar ideas. The first clause poses one
idea, and the second idea comes after the conjunctive adverb. Comparative conjunctive
adverbs include:
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likewise
similarly
You can use these conjunctive adverbs like this:
1. Oliver loves to repair cars; likewise, his brother Simon enjoys it.
2. The grapes are wilting in the sun; similarly, the tomatoes are overheated.
Conceding a Point
When you are making a point, conjunctive adverbs can help you concede a counterargument.
Use these words before acknowledging the other side:
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granted
of course
Examples of sentences with these conjunctive adverbs of concession:
1. The polls favour one candidate over another; granted, polls have been wrong before.
2. I trust my son to come home by curfew; of course, he’s been late twice this week.
Contrasting Ideas
Demonstrating contrast is another helpful function of conjunctive adverbs. They form a
relationship between two opposing ideas. Examples of conjunctive adverbs that show contrast
include:
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however
instead
nevertheless
rather
regardless
still
Examples of these conjunctive adverbs in different sentences:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
I wanted to see a scary movie; however, my friend wanted to see a comedy.
We had planned on going out to dinner; instead, we cooked dinner at home.
Enrique didn’t like to study; nevertheless, he worked hard to pass History.
This turkey isn’t very good; rather, it’s dry and unappealing.
Jeremy prefers baseball to football; regardless, he always watches the Super bowl.
Conjunctive adverbs act like conjunctions; still, they are adverbs.
Emphasizing a Point
Conjunctive adverbs can effectively emphasize a point. These adverbs connect two ideas that
are similar, with the second idea being a bit more emphatic. Check out these conjunctive
adverbs that create emphasis:
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again
certainly
indeed
moreover
of course
Try using each conjunctive adverb in a sentence to reinforce your point.
1. Our kids really need a new traffic signal on the corner; again, it keeps the children
safe.
2. Stay away from the water; certainly, you don’t want to fall in.
3. This is a wonderful investment; indeed, you’ll make your money back and then some.
4. Eric hated cleaning the toilet; moreover, it was a waste of time.
5. Decreasing homework leads to higher school engagement; of course, we want our
students to be engaged.
Sequencing Events
Putting events in sequential order can make them easier to understand. Conjunctive adverbs
are helpful ways to transition between the order of events. Examples of these conjunctive
adverbs include:
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first
next
finally
Examples:
1. Let’s have a chat; first, I’ll pour you a cup of coffee.
2. We have to get you knew shoes; next, I have to get the groceries.
3. Katie put the finishing touches on her project; finally, she signed her name.
Summarizing an Argument
Once you have finished making a point or an argument, it is effective to sum things up. Use
the following conjunctive adverbs to summarize what you’ve just said:
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all in all
in conclusion
in summary
Examples:
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We packed up the car and drove home; all in all, it was a great trip.
Many children have been injured this year; in conclusion, the playground is unsafe.
Dogs are great protectors and companions; in summary, we should get a dog.
Show Time
Finally, conjunctive adverbs can also signify time. They compare when the first clause
occurred versus when the second clause occurred. Examples of conjunctive adverbs that
show time include:
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beforehand
meanwhile
lately
now
since
Examples:
1. The new policy is much better; beforehand, everyone had to enter their own forms.
2. Sir Harold climbs the tower to rescue the princess; meanwhile, the dragon lurks
nearby.
3. Kyle was grateful for the award; lately, he'd been feeling unappreciated.
4. The dogs used to play together on the sidewalk; now, they can play at the dog park.
5. Our family welcomed a new baby; since her birth, we’ve been so happy.
Start Sentences with Conjunctive Adverbs
A conjunctive adverb can also be the first word in a sentence, as long as it connects the rest of
the sentence with the sentence before it.
We should talk about Taylor’s grades. Additionally, we should discuss her behaviour.
1. I wanted to see a scary movie. However, my friend wanted to see a comedy.
2. Many species will be impacted by construction. For example, blue jays live in these
trees.
3. Let’s have a chat. First, I’ll pour you a cup of coffee.
4. The new policy is much better. Beforehand, everyone had to enter their own forms.
Notice that there are still commas after each conjunctive adverb, even when it starts in a
sentence. If your sentences with conjunctive adverbs sound awkward, consider splitting them
into two sentences.