Here's a breakdown:
* Conjunction: A word that joins words, phrases, or clauses.
* Correlative: Working in pairs, like two halves of a whole.
Common Correlative Conjunctions
Here are some of the most common correlative conjunctions:
* Both...and: *Both* the dog *and* the cat were playing in the yard.
* Either...or: *Either* you can go to the movies *or* you can stay home and watch TV.
* Neither...nor: *Neither* the boy *nor* the girl was interested in the game.
* Not only...but also: *Not only* did she sing beautifully, *but also* she played the piano.
* Whether...or: *Whether* you like it *or* not, you have to do your homework.
* So...that: *So* many people came to the party *that* the room was crowded.
* Such...that: The food was *such* a mess *that* it was inedible.
Key Points
* Balance: Correlative conjunctions require a balanced structure, meaning the phrases or clauses they connect should be grammatically parallel.
* Emphasis: They highlight the relationship between the two elements they connect, making it clear that the elements are equally important.
* Formal Tone: Their use tends to add a more formal tone to writing.
Example:
* Incorrect: *I like either pizza or to eat ice cream.* (Unbalanced structure)
* Correct: *I like either pizza or ice cream.* (Balanced structure)
In summary, correlative conjunctions are pairs of words that connect elements in a sentence, creating a balanced structure and emphasizing the relationship between them. They add a formal tone and make your writing more precise.