Conjunctive adverbs are words that join independent clauses into one sentence. A conjunctive adverb helps you create a shorter sentence.
When you use a conjunctive adverb, put a semicolon (;) before it and a comma (,) after it.
We have many different sizes of this shirt; however, it comes in only one color.
Some examples of conjunctive adverbs are: accordingly, also, besides, consequently, finally, however, indeed, instead, likewise, meanwhile, moreover, nevertheless, next, otherwise, still, therefore, then, etc.
The due date for the final paper has passed; therefore, I could not submit mine on time.
There are many history books; however, none of them may be accurate.
It rained hard; moreover, lightening flashed and thunder boomed.
The baby fell asleep; then, the doorbell rang.
The law does not permit drinking and driving anytime; otherwise, there would be many more accidents.
Conjunctive adverbs look like coordinating conjunctions (and, but, or, so, for, yet, nor) ; however, they are not as strong as coordinating conjunctions and they are punctuated differently.
A conjunctive adverb is also used in a single main clause. In this case, a comma (,) is used to separate the conjunctive adverb from the sentence.
I woke up very late this morning. Nevertheless, I wasn't late to school.
She didn't take a bus to work today. Instead, she drove her car.
Jack wants a toy car for his birthday. Meanwhile, Jill wants a dollhouse for her birthday.
They returned home. Likewise, I went home.
[Quiz 27.1]
Choose the right conjunctive adverb for the sentence.
1) Hurry up; , you will be late for the train.
2) I studied hard for the exam; , I failed.
3) Tom is a sportsman; , his brother Tom is athletic.
4) He didn't go to college. , he started his own business.
5) He is not good-looking. , he is popular among girls.
