Use the correct pair of correlative conjunctions
key notes :
| What are Correlative Conjunctions? |
Correlative conjunctions are pairs of words that work together to connect equal parts of a sentence.
They help show relationships like choice, comparison, addition, etc.
| Common Correlative Conjunction Pairs |
| Correlative Pair | Usage | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Either… or ⚖️ | Shows a choice between two items | You can either study now or study later. |
| Neither… nor 🚫 | Denies both options | He likes neither tea nor coffee. |
| Both… and 👫 | Adds two equal ideas | Both the teacher and the students enjoyed the trip. |
| Not only… but also ✨ | Emphasises an additional idea | She is not only smart but also hardworking. |
| Whether… or 🤔 | Shows uncertainty/choice | I don’t know whether he will come or stay home. |
| As… as 📏 | Shows comparison of equality | She is as tall as her brother. |
| Such… that 🚀 | Shows cause and effect | It was such a cold day that school was closed. |
| No sooner… than ⏩ | Shows immediate action | No sooner had it rained than the streets flooded. |
| Key Rules to Remember |
🔹 Use both parts together — never use only one!
âś… Either… or ❌ “Either… and”
🔹 The two items connected must be parallel (same grammar form).
Example:
âś… She likes both singing and dancing.
❌ She likes both singing and to dance.
🔹 Keep them close to the words they relate to.
| Examples in Sentences |
✨ Not only the players but also the coach was praised.
⚖️ You can either come with us or stay home.
đźš« Neither the watch nor the phone was working.
đź“Ź He is as brave as a lion.
| Common Mistakes |
| ❌ Wrong | ✅ Correct |
|---|---|
| Either he will call and message. | Either he will call or message. |
| Both she is intelligent and kind. | She is both intelligent and kind. |
| Not only he passed but got the highest marks also. | Not only did he pass, but also got the highest marks. |
| Quick Practice |
Fill in the correct correlative conjunction:
- ______ the teacher ______ the students were present.
- She is ______ honest ______ responsible.
- I don’t know ______ he is joking ______ serious.
- ______ did he lose the match ______ he also got injured.
Let’s practice!🖊️
