Konjunktionaladverb

A Konjunktionaladverb, also known as a conjunctive adverb, is a word that connects two independent clauses. It functions similarly to a conjunction but has the grammatical status of an adverb. Konjunktionaladverbien provide a transition between ideas, showing a relationship such as cause and effect, contrast, or sequence.

Common examples of Konjunktionaladverbien in English include words like however, therefore, moreover, nevertheless, consequently, and furthermore. For instance, "The weather was terrible; however, we still went for a walk." Here, "however" links the two independent clauses and indicates a contrast. In German, similar words exist such as aber, deshalb, außerdem, dennoch, folglich, and weiterhin. An example in German would be: "Das Wetter war schrecklich; dennoch machten wir einen Spaziergang."

When used to join two independent clauses, a Konjunktionaladverb is typically preceded by a semicolon and followed by a comma. It can also appear at the beginning of a sentence, in which case it is followed by a comma, and the following clause begins with a subject. For example: "We were tired. Therefore, we decided to go home." This dual function as a connector and an adverb is characteristic of this word class. They are crucial for creating coherent and sophisticated sentences, guiding the reader through the logical progression of thought.