Correlative Conjunctions

A correlative conjunction is used to speak about two equal parts. Correlative conjunctions always join grammatically equal elements (e.g., noun & noun, adjective & adjective, phrase & phrase, clause & clause, etc.).

1. either ..... or
2. neither ..... nor
3. not only ..... but also
4. whether ..... or
5. both ..... and

Examples:

1. Both Tom and Jerry were unhappy with the result. (= 5)
2. For breakfast, Jack ate not only a turkey but also a dozen eggs. (= 3, surprise)
3. I have neither the time nor the money. (= 2)
4. You can either help or leave. (= 1)

You may be confused with "either" because it is also used in negative agreement and means "0".

1. A: I don't have any money.
2. B: I don't either. = 0 (or Neither do I.)

Match the sentence Halves

1. Both peter
2. Not only do we want to go
3. Either Jack will have to work more hours
4. That story was
5. Students who do well not only study hard
6. In the end he had to choose
7. Sometimes it is
8. I would love to take

1. neither true nor realistic.
2. not only wise to listen to your parents but also interesting.
3. and I are coming next week.
4. either his career or his hobby.
5. both my laptop and my cell phone on holiday.
6. but also use their instincts if they do not know the answer.
7. or we will have to hire somebody new.
8. but we have enough money.

Combine these into a single sentence

1. We could fly. We could go by train.
2. She will have to study hard. She will have to concentrate to do well on the exam.
3. Jack is not here. Tom is in another city.
4. The speaker will not confirm the story. The speaker will not deny the story.
5. pneumonia is a dangerous disease. Small pox is a dangerous illness.
6. Fred loves traveling. Jane wants to go around the world.
7. It might rain tomorrow. It might snow tomorrow.
8. playing tennis is good for your heart. Jogging is good for your health.