conjunction

In grammar, a conjunction is a small word that connects two words, phrases, or sentences together. Think of it as a bridge. Words like 'and', 'but', 'or', 'because', and 'although' are all conjunctions. Without them, sentences would feel choppy and disconnected.

grammar / linguistics · Modern, widely used

In the sentence 'I was tired, but I kept working', the word 'but' is a conjunction.

You can use the conjunction 'because' to explain a reason: 'She left early because she was sick.'

'And' is probably the most common conjunction in English — it simply adds one thing to another.

Outside of grammar, a conjunction means the joining or coming together of two or more things at the same time or place. You will often see the phrase 'in conjunction with', which means 'together with' or 'combined with'.

everyday language / formal writing · Modern, slightly formal

The film was made in conjunction with a major publishing house.

astronomy / science · Modern, technical

Astronomers were excited about the rare conjunction of Jupiter and Saturn.

During the conjunction, both planets were visible side by side in the night sky.