Conjunctions: And, but, or, so, because

Conjunctions: And, But, Or, So, Because

Conjunctions are small but powerful words that help us link ideas together. They make our sentences smoother, more natural, and more interesting to read. On this page, you’ll learn how to use five common conjunctions—and, but, or, so, and because—with simple examples and practice exercises.

What Are Conjunctions?

Think of conjunctions as the glue that connects words, phrases, or sentences. Without them, our writing would sound choppy. With them, we can add details, show differences, explain reasons, and connect thoughts clearly.

Five Common Conjunctions

How to Use These Conjunctions

And

Use and to join similar ideas or add extra information.

• She is a teacher and a writer.
• We visited London and Paris.

But

Use but when two ideas are different or contrast each other.

• He is tall, but his brother is short.
• I studied hard, but I didn’t pass the exam.

Or

Use or to give choices or options.

• You can have cake or ice cream.
• Shall we watch a movie or play a game?

So

Use so to show the result of something.

• He studied hard, so he passed the test.
• It was cold, so we wore jackets.

Because

Use because to explain the reason for something.

• I am happy because it’s my birthday.
• She stayed home because she was sick.

Quick Tips for Conjunctions

• And = add information.
• But = show contrast.
• Or = give a choice.
• So = show result.
• Because = give a reason.

✨ The best way to master conjunctions is to use them in your own sentences. Try our conjunctions exercises to practice linking ideas naturally and improve your writing step by step!