Correlative Conjunctions in English

Hello English learners! In today’s lesson, we are going to look at correlative conjunctions in English. They may sound a little formal or intimidating at first, but the idea is actually quite simple.

Correlative conjunctions are pairs of words that work together to join equal parts of a sentence. You have probably used them many times already without even thinking about it:

• either … or
• neither … nor
• both … and
• not only … but also
• whether … or

These structures are very useful because they help us express choice, contrast, addition, emphasis, and balance. They are common in both spoken and written English, and they can make your sentences sound more natural, clear, and precise.

In this lesson, you will learn:

• what correlative conjunctions are
• how to use the most common ones
• important grammar rules
• common mistakes to avoid
• plenty of clear example sentences

Let us get started.

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Common correlative conjunctions in English

1. Either … or

We use either … or to talk about a choice between two alternatives.

Structure:

either + word/phrase/clause + or + word/phrase/clause

• We can go either by train or by coach.
• You can either call me tonight or send me a message tomorrow.

Note: This structure usually suggests that one of the two options is possible, but not both.

2. Neither … nor

We use neither … nor to connect two negative alternatives.

Structure:

neither + word/phrase/clause + nor + word/phrase/clause

• Neither Sam nor Pam can swim.
• She likes neither coffee nor tea.

Important:

Do not say neither … or.

The correct pair is always neither … nor.

3. Both … and

We use both … and to connect two people, things, or ideas and show that the two are equally true or important.

Structure:

both + word/phrase + and + word/phrase

• She speaks both English and Italian.
• The film was both funny and touching.

This structure is very common and very useful in everyday English.

4. Not only … but also

We use not only … but also to add emphasis. It shows that one thing is true, and another surprising or important thing is true as well.

Structure:

not only + word/phrase/clause + but also + word/phrase/clause

• She is not only intelligent but also hardworking.
• The company not only survived but also grew quickly.

More formal structure:

When not only comes at the beginning of the sentence, we often use inversion:

• Not only was she tired, but she was also worried.
• Not only did he forget my birthday, but he also arrived late.

This pattern is more advanced and is especially useful in formal writing.

5. Whether … or

We use whether … or when talking about two possibilities, especially when we are uncertain or when both possibilities lead to the same result.

Structure:

whether + option + or + option

• I do not know whether to stay at home or go out.
• Whether you agree or not, we have to make a decision.

This structure is very common in both spoken and written English.

6. Would rather … than

We use would rather … than to express preference.

Structure:

would rather + base verb + than + base verb

• I would rather stay at home than go out tonight.
• They would rather save money than spend it on something unnecessary.

Common mistake:

Do not say:

• would rather … that

The correct form is:

• would rather … than

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The rule of parallel structure

One of the most important things about correlative conjunctions is parallel structure.

This means that the grammatical form after the first part of the pair should match the grammatical form after the second part.

Correct:

• She likes both reading and writing.
• He is either tired or ill.
• We can either leave now or wait a little longer.

Incorrect:

• She likes both reading and to write.
• He is either tired or illness.

Try to keep the sentence balanced. English loves balance almost as much as it loves tea.

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Subject-verb agreement with correlative conjunctions

This is one of the trickiest areas for learners.

With both … and

When two subjects are joined by both … and, we usually use a plural verb.

Examples:

• Both the teacher and the students were pleased with the results.
• Both Tom and Alex have finished the task.

With either … or / neither … nor

When subjects are joined by either … or or neither … nor, the verb usually agrees with the subject closest to it.

Examples:

• Neither the teacher nor the students were ready.
• Neither the students nor the teacher was ready.
• Either my parents or my brother is coming.
• Either my brother or my parents are coming.

This rule can feel awkward at first, but it becomes easier with practice.

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Do we use commas with correlative conjunctions?

Usually, we do not use a comma when correlative conjunctions join words or short phrases.

Examples:

• She likes both music and art.
• We can go either today or tomorrow.
• He is not only clever but also patient.

However, a comma may appear when the sentence is longer, more complex, or when the structure comes at the beginning of the sentence.

• Not only did she pass the exam, but she also got one of the highest marks in the class.
• Whether you like it or not, you must apologise.

So the rule is not “always use a comma” or “never use a comma”. It depends on the structure of the sentence.

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Final thoughts

Correlative conjunctions in English are one of those grammar points that seem a little technical at first, but once you start noticing them, you will see them everywhere.

They are useful, elegant, and surprisingly common. Mastering them will help you write more balanced sentences, speak more naturally, and sound more confident in English.

So the next time you are writing or speaking, try to use structures like both … and, either … or, or not only … but also. They are small expressions, but they do a great deal of heavy lifting.

Download Correlative Conjunctions Practice Worksheet in PDF here

FAQ 

What are correlative conjunctions in English?
Correlative conjunctions in English are pairs of words that work together to join equal parts of a sentence, such as either…or and both…and.

What are some examples of correlative conjunctions?
Common examples include either…or, neither…nor, both…and, whether…or, and not only…but also.

What is the rule for correlative conjunctions?
The main rule is that the two parts joined by correlative conjunctions should be parallel in structure.

How do you use either…or and neither…nor?
Use either…or for a choice between two alternatives and neither…nor for two negative alternatives.

Are correlative conjunctions important for Cambridge exams?
Yes, correlative conjunctions can improve grammar range and make your writing and speaking more accurate and natural in Cambridge exams.

Related posts:

• Advanced Conjunctions in English
• Linking Words and Phrases for Time
• Formal Language in English
• Cleft Sentences in English
• Ellipses and Substitution
• Nominalisation in English
• Inversion with Negative Adverbs and Adverbial Phrases