What are conjunctive

adverbs?

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Conjunctive adverbs

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Conjunctive adverbs

Conjunctive adverbs are adverbs that act like conjunctions—they connect the information in two clauses or sentences.

You thought I couldn’t eat a whole jar of jam; however, you were wrong. Similarly, you were wrong to think I’d only eat one!

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Conjunctive adverbs

If the adverb joins two sentences or appears in the middle of a clause, it usually needs a comma or two.

Emily finished her project last Friday. Nevertheless, she is very busy this week.

My dentist is busy all this week. His schedule is full, furthermore, until late next month!

The bus broke down and the traffic was heavy; therefore we were late.

If the adverb joins two clauses, it needs a semicolon. If you think a pause is needed as well, add a comma.

There was a blackout and Tom sprained his ankle; however, we managed to put on a great show.

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Conjunctive adverbs

There are many conjunctive adverbs. Sort these ones by their basic meaning.

at the same time or later

similarly

furthermore

finally

however

likewise

consequently

neverthelessthus meanwhile

therefore

as a consequence

in the same way in spite of

nonetheless

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Conjunctive adverbs

Short phrases can act like conjunctive adverbs, connecting the information in two clauses

or sentences. They use the same punctuation as conjunctive adverbs.

Complete each sentence with a phrase. Remember to use commas and semicolons.

I made his meal myself. I made everyone’s meal.Teri has superhero powers she can walk up walls.Four times two equals eight. four is a factor of eight.Oliver has trained for months a marathon is a tough race.

for example as a matter of fact in other words even so

As a matter of fact,; for example,

In other words,; even so,

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Conjunctive adverbs

• An adverb adds meaning to a verb, adjective or another adverb. Conjunctive adverbs act like conjunctions, connecting information between clauses or sentences.

• A conjunctive adverb between two sentences, or within a clause, usually needs a comma or two. A conjunctive adverb between two clauses needs a semicolon.

• Phrases can act like conjunctive adverbs.• In the following sentence, the conjunctive adverb is

red: The team didn’t play very well; however, they did play fairly.

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Conjunctive adverbs

The End