conjunction

A conjunction is a part of speech that connects words, phrases, clauses, or sentences. In grammar, it expresses relationships such as addition, contrast, or choice. In logic, it describes a connective that combines two propositions into a single statement, akin to the English word and.

Coordinating conjunctions join elements of equal status: for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so. Subordinating conjunctions introduce dependent clauses (because, since, if, when, although). Correlative conjunctions appear in paired forms such as either...or, neither...nor, both...and, not only...but also.

Conjunctions affect syntax and meaning. They can link nouns, adjectives, verbs, or clauses. Some languages lack a dedicated conjunction class or use inflections, particles, or intonation to signal relationships.

In English, coordinating conjunctions commonly join independent clauses with a comma before the conjunction to avoid a run-on. Correlative pairs require parallel structure.

In logic, the conjunction operator is denoted by the symbol ∧ and by the word and; it is true only if both operands are true.

Etymology: from Latin coniunctio, from con- “together” and iungere “to join.”