Clauses need connecting tissue. A conjunction is a word that joins words, phrases, or clauses and signals relations such as addition, contrast, alternative, or cause.

Coordinating conjunctions link elements of equal status; subordinating conjunctions introduce dependent clauses; correlative pairs work together. English examples include and, but, or, because, and although. Punctuation rules often hinge on conjunction type.

Conjunction choice shapes the logic a reader infers. Overuse of a single conjunction flattens style; precise subordinators clarify complex argument. Languages differ in how many relations they grammaticalize as conjunctions.

• Word linking words, phrases, or clauses
• Includes coordinating and subordinating types
• Signals logical relations
• Affects punctuation and sentence structure