Conjunctions are words used to connect clauses, phrases or words. We use only one conjunction to connect two clauses.

There are mainly two types of conjunctions – subordinating conjunctions and coordinating conjunctions.

In this lesson we will learn the correct use of some conjunctions.

No sooner

The conjunction no sooner is used to talk about two actions that happen in quick succession or almost simultaneously.

• No sooner did I receive the message than I started.

Note that when no sooner comes at the beginning of the sentence, we use an inverted word order – that means the auxiliary verb goes before the subject.

• No sooner did I receive… (NOT No sooner I received…)

Sooner is a comparative expression and it should be followed by than. It is wrong to use when or before in this construction.

• No sooner did she complete one project than she started working on the next.
• No sooner had she completed one project than she started working on the next.

As soon as has a similar meaning to no sooner.

• I will inform you as soon as I hear from them.
• The workers went home as soon as they finished the job.

Though

The conjunction though is used to connect two contrasting ideas.

• Though she is educated, she lacks common sense.

It is possible to express the same idea using but.

• She is educated but she lacks common sense.

Until and up to

The conjunction until shows time whereas the conjunction up to shows distance.

• I waited until 9 pm.
• We walked up to the edge of the forest.

Fill in the blanks with an appropriate conjunction. Choose your answers from the options given below.

Answers

1. The mayor imposed a curfew until the disturbance was over.

2. Don’t be surprised if they ask you to sing on the spot.

3. The boys drew lots to determine who would get to play first.

4. Van Gogh had periods during which he was completely mad.

5. The magician manipulated the cards and the ace vanished.

6. They were neither paid nor encouraged to work hard.

7. She not only sings but also dances.

8. As soon as the program began, the power went out.

9. She had no sooner finished one project than she started working on the next.

10. Though we are no longer on talking terms, we were friends at university.