Conjunctive Adverbs Examples

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Conjunctive Adverbs - Glossary of Terms

Conjunctive Adverbs

A conjunctive adverb is used to join two simple sentences (or clauses). The following can all be used as conjunctive adverbs:

Examples:

also, consequently, furthermore, however, incidentally, indeed, likewise, meanwhile, nevertheless, nonetheless and therefore

When used to join two sentences, a conjunctive adverb must be preceded by a semicolon and not a comma. (This is a common mistake - particularly with however.) Conjunctive adverbs are also known as "transitional phrases".

Examples:

The instructor's English is poor; consequently, they all failed the exam.

I know Mr Evans was drunk; however, I am not responsible for his actions.

Interactive example:

You failed to meet the deadline; consequently, the deal is off. [show me the conjunctive adverb]

The word "however" nearly always starts a sentence. Occasionally, it can be preceded by a semicolon (when used as a conjunctive adverb). Preceding it with a comma and writing a new sentence is a very common mistake.

I normally like toffees, however, I dislike these ones.

Associated pages:

What are adverbs?
Semicolons before transitional phrases
Glossary of grammatical terms