Conjunctive Adverb

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.

These adverbs are aptly named because "conjunctive" comes from the Latin word for "join together." Let's take a closer look at these adverbs in action.

Conjunctive Adverbs in Action

A conjunctive adverb, which can also be called an adverbial conjunction, brings together two complete thoughts. Each clause would be able to stand on its own as a separate sentence. A conjunctive adverb then provides a smooth transition from one thought to the next.

Typically, the first clause is followed by a semicolon. Conjunctive adverbs are not strong enough to join two clauses without some punctuation. Then, there's usually a comma after the conjunctive adverb.

Conjunctive adverbs show contrast, comparison, and other types of relationships, so it can help to group them according to each function. This may help you understand them better:

Sometimes, the function of conjunctive adverbs is addition. Examples include:

in addition

next

also

again

furthermore

Sometimes, the function of conjunctive adverbs is comparison. Examples include:

also

likewise

similarly

Conjunctive adverbs also signify concession. Examples include:

granted

of course

still

nevertheless

Conjunctive adverbs also demonstrate contrast. Examples include:

however

instead

in spite of

rather

Sometimes, the function of conjunctive adverbs is emphasis. Examples include:

indeed

of course

certainly

further

Sometimes, conjunctive adverbs illustrate a point. Examples include:

for example

namely

that is

for instance

Conjunctive adverbs also summarize. Examples include:

all

in all

that is

in summary

finally

in conclusion

Finally, conjunctive adverbs may also signify time. Examples include:

before

meanwhile

lately

now

since

in the meantime

Examples of Conjunctive Adverbs

Basically, when you see an adverb connecting ideas, rather than modifying words, it's a conjunctive adverb. Let's take a look at them in action:

I wanted to see a scary movie; however, my friend wanted to see a comedy.

We had very different opinions; therefore, we went our separate ways.

You need to concentrate on your studies; otherwise, you'll fail the class.

Chris was determined to get high marks; nevertheless, he did not pass.

The thunder and lightning were intense; consequently, the crowd dispersed.

A tropical storm was forecast; hence we stayed in the resort.

He enjoyed getting a new tie; nevertheless, a sports car would have been a better gift.

Your research is correct; moreover, you made some interesting points.

We have to get you new shoes; in addition, I have some errands to run.

Conjunctive adverbs act like conjunctions; however, they are adverbs.

Other Functions of Conjunctive Adverbs

Conjunctive adverbs can sometimes work as a regular adverb, modifying a verb, adjective, or another adverb. In this case, they don't need extra punctuation.

Here's an example:

"He was accordingly very interested in jazz."

In this sentence the word "accordingly" is acting like an adverb and modifying the adjective "interested."

Many times, a conjunctive adverb will start or end a sentence. At the beginning of a sentence it may need a comma after it since it appears before an independent clause. Here are some examples:

Therefore, I will eat green eggs and ham.

In other words, English is a hard language to learn.

Above all, we must try to save the planet.

Eating before going on the roller coaster was a mistake indeed.

Grammatical Efficiency

Remember, adverbs change or modify verbs, adjectives, or other adverbs. Many end with "-ly," making them easy to spot, however, some adverbs stray from the -ly commonality, especially conjunctive adverbs.