Conjunctive Adverbs

Conjunctive adverbs are not true conjunctions, but these adverbs often function as conjunctions in joining two independent clauses.

They serve as transitional devices between one main thought and another.

NOTE: Because conjunctive adverbs are not true conjunctions, a semicolon is required when connecting two independent clauses.

Conjunctive adverbs other than SO or OTHERWISE require a semicolon preceding them and a comma following them.

The president will be attending the lecture; accordingly, the vice president will be available for the luncheon.

• The two clauses are independent. The semicolon replaces a coordinating conjunction and indicates that the two clauses are independent.

Jaime wanted to see “Mission Impossible”; however, Nick wanted to see “28 Days.”

• The two clauses are independent. The semicolon replaces a coordinating conjunction and indicates that the two clauses are independent.

SO and OTHERWISE do not require a comma following them when they are Conjunctive adverbs.

• The best candidate for the job missed her flight; so we will postpone the interviews until tomorrow.

• Remember, for SO to be a subordinating conjunction the meaning must be IN ORDER THAT or WITH THE PURPOSE THAT. To be a coordinating conjunction SO must mean DURING THE TIME THAT. When the meaning of SO is THEREFORE, it is a conjunctive adverb.

You will need to focus on the goal; otherwise it is easy to get distracted.

• The two clauses are independent. The semicolon replaces a coordinating conjunction and indicates that the two clauses are independent, but no comma is required after OTHERWISE.

A conjunctive adverb connects two ideas (independent clauses). If the above words interrupt a thought, they are not conjunctive adverbs and are not punctuated as such.

Either subject, however, is fine with me.

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