Some correlative conjunctions

Correlative conjunctions are those conjunctions that are used in pairs. Examples are: either…or and neither…nor. When you use a correlative conjunction, you have to make sure both parts are followed by the same kind of structure. For example, if you use an adjective after the first part of the correlative, then the second part too should be followed by an adjective.

There are several correlative conjunctions in English. Here is a quick overview.

Both…and

She is both beautiful and clever.

He is both handsome and intelligent.

I both love and respect my parents.

Either…or

Either Charles or Benjamin will be elected.

You have to either follow my instructions or quit.

Neither…nor

It looks like neither Charles nor Benjamin will be elected.

I will neither follow your instructions nor quit.

Whether…or

You will have to do it whether you like it or not.

I don’t know whether she will come or not.

Not only…but also

He was not only reprimanded but also given a sound beating.

He not only passed the test but also won the first rank.

No sooner…than

No sooner did these words escape his lips than he fainted.

No sooner had I gone to bed than the phone started ringing.

Scarcely when

Scarcely had I stepped out of my house when it started raining.

Such…as

I have never seen such heavy rain as this.

She is not such a fool as you think her to be.

Such…that

Such was his love for the woman that he even sacrificed his crown for her.

Such was his rudeness that I wanted to slap him.

So…that

I am so tired that I can’t walk any longer.

It was so cold that we all sat around the fire.