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.
| Common Conjunctive Adverbs: | |
|---|---|
| Accordingly | Afterwards |
| Also | Consequently |
| However | Indeed |
| Likewise | Moreover |
| Nevertheless | Nonetheless |
| Otherwise | Similarly |
| So* | Still |
| Therefore | |
| (*may also be subordinating) | |
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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.
