00 / Clauses & Questions
Correlative conjunctions
Correlative conjunctions are pairs of words that work together to connect two balanced parts of a sentence. They emphasize the relationship between two choices, additions, or exclusions.
B2Upper Intermediate
01 / Overview
Correlative conjunctions function in pairs to link words, phrases, or clauses of equal grammatical importance. This structure creates a sense of balance and parallelism within the sentence.
- Either...or: Expresses a choice between two alternatives.
- Neither...nor: Negates two options simultaneously.
- Not only...but also: Emphasizes that two related facts are true, often adding a sense of surprise or importance to the second fact.
02 / Parallel Structure
[Conjunction 1] + [Noun/Verb/Phrase] + [Conjunction 2] + [Matching Noun/Verb/Phrase]
The most important rule for these conjunctions is parallelism. The grammatical structure following the first part of the pair must match the structure following the second part.
03 / Examples
04 / Common mistakes
He is not only talented but he is also hardworking.
He is not only talented but also hardworking.
Maintain parallel structure by using two adjectives rather than an adjective and a full clause.
Neither the teacher or the students liked the book.
Neither the teacher nor the students liked the book.
Always pair 'neither' with 'nor'. Using 'or' is a common error in negative constructions.
05 / Subject-Verb Agreement
When connecting two subjects of different numbers, the verb must agree with the subject that is physically closest to it in the sentence.
| Structure | Verb Agreement Rule |
|---|---|
| Either/Neither + Singular + Or/Nor + Plural | The verb agrees with the closer subject (plural). |
| Either/Neither + Plural + Or/Nor + Singular | The verb agrees with the closer subject (singular). |
06 / Practice
Complete the sentence: Neither the director ___ the actors wanted to change the script.
Show answer
Answer: nor
Why: The correlative conjunction 'neither' must always be paired with 'nor' to negate both subjects.
Correct the error: He not only plays the piano but also he writes his own music.
Show answer
Answer: He not only plays the piano but also writes his own music.
Why: To maintain parallel structure, both parts of the conjunction should be followed by a verb phrase ('plays...' and 'writes...').
Choose the correct verb: Either the cookies or the cake (is/are) being served for dessert.
Show answer
Answer: is
Why: In 'either...or' constructions, the verb agrees with the closest subject. Since 'cake' is singular, the verb must be 'is'.