Lesson 3: Conjunctions (because, so, and, but, or)

Welcome! When English learners speak, they often use short, separate sentences like "I went to the market. I bought fruit."

To sound fluent, you need Conjunctions. These are the "glue" that connects our ideas together. Today, we'll learn how to use words like and, but, and because to make your English flow naturally and tell better stories.

Welcome! Conjunctions are linking words. They connect ideas together so you don't have to speak in short, choppy sentences. Let's look at how to use these important tools.

warning Common Mistake

In English, you only need ONE connecting word for a cause and effect.

Don't say: Because I am sick, so I sleep.
Say: Because I am sick, I sleep. OR I am sick, so I sleep.

menu_book

Interactive Vocabulary

Adding Info

And

Used to connect words of the same part of speech, clauses, or sentences.

Example: We visited the Royal Palace and the National Museum today.

Contrast

But

Used to introduce a phrase or clause contrasting with what has already been mentioned.

Example: I wanted to see the sunrise at Angkor Wat, but it was raining.

Choice

Or

Used to link alternatives or choices.

Example: Do you prefer sweet milk coffee or strong black coffee?

Reason

Because

For the reason that; since. It answers the question "Why?".

Example: He stopped to buy a sandwich because he was hungry.

Result

So

And for this reason; therefore. It shows the result of an action.

Example: The weather was very hot, so we bought cold sugarcane juice.

sports_esports

Knowledge Check

local_cafe Ordering at a Cafe

The waiter asks: "Do you want hot tea ____ iced coffee?"

(Hint: You are being offered a choice.)

directions_car Explaining a Delay

Sophea is late for work. She tells her boss: "I am late ____ there was a lot of traffic."

(Hint: We are giving a reason.)

set_meal Describing a Trip

You are describing a trip: "The crab was delicious, ____ it was very spicy!"

(Hint: We are showing a contrast.)

workspace_premium

Lesson Complete!

0%

cloud_download

Study Resources

Lesson Summary & Review

Let's review the key concepts covered in the interactive module above to ensure you are ready to link your ideas correctly.

Using Conjunctions

Conjunctions help you avoid speaking in short, choppy sentences.

• And: Adds information. (e.g., "I like apples and bananas.")
• But: Shows contrast. (e.g., "I like apples, but I don't like bananas.")
• Or: Shows a choice. (e.g., "Do you want apples or bananas?")
• Because: Explains a reason. (e.g., "I eat apples because they are healthy.")
• So: Shows a result. (e.g., "Apples are healthy, so I eat them.")