About Japanese Conjunction
A conjunction is a word that connects words or sentences before and after.
It is an independent word with no inflection and becomes a conjunction on its own.
Conjunction examples
In the following sentences, "however," "either or," and "or" are conjunctions.
本は好きだ。しかし、国語は苦手だ。 電話もしくはファックスで送っていただけますか。 餃子にするか、それともラーメンにするか。
Below, we explain the types of conjunctions.
List and Types of Conjunctions
Japanese conjunctions can be divided into six categories: sequential, adversative, parallel/additive, contrast/selection, explanation/supplement, and transition. Here is a list of these categories.
(1) Sequential
Sequential conjunctions are followed by natural results.
Examples of Sequential Conjunctions So, therefore, hence, then *Imagine the English "so."
(2) Adversative
Adversative conjunctions are followed by unexpected results or developments.
Examples of Adversative Conjunctions However, but, yet, however *Imagine the English "but."
(3) Parallel/Additive
Parallel/additive conjunctions are followed by supplementary content.
Examples of Parallel/Additive Conjunctions Also, and, furthermore *Imagine the English "and."
(4) Contrast/Selection
Contrast/selection conjunctions follow content that prompts selection between the preceding and following.
Examples of Contrast/Selection Conjunctions Or, or else, either or *Imagine the English "or."
(5) Explanation/Supplement
Explanation/supplement conjunctions are followed by explanations or supplements.
Examples of Explanation/Supplement Conjunctions In other words, because, namely *Imagine the English "because."
(6) Transition
Transition conjunctions are followed by content that changes the topic.
Examples of Transition Conjunctions By the way, well, then, sometimes *Imagine the English "by the way."
Examples of Conjunctions Here are some examples of sequential, adversative, and other conjunctions.
My mother is an entrepreneur and also an artist. She tried hard in practice. However, she lost the match. The fee has been revised. Furthermore, please check the details in the separate document.
Conjunctions often come at the beginning of a sentence or after punctuation marks, which is a characteristic feature.
How to Use Conjunctions
Be careful not to overuse conjunctions.
It is not a problem to use them in logical texts such as thesis papers, but in general texts, overusing conjunctions can make the text feel disjointed and affect its rhythm.
Difference Between Conjunctions and Connective Words
It is common to hear people say that they do not understand the difference between conjunctions and connective words.
The difference is that conjunctions are parts of speech (e.g., verbs, adjectives, nouns), whereas connective words are components of a sentence (e.g., subject, predicate, modifier).
Also, conjunctions are single words that become connective words, whereas connective words are phrases that play a connective role with the help of connective particles.
Examples of Connective Words with Connective Particles
- 夏だから、もっと色々なところに行きたい。(名詞 + 接続助詞)
- 疲れたから、早く寝る。(動詞 + 接続助詞)
- 古いから、値下げされている。(形容詞 + 接続助詞)
- 好きだから、気になる。(形容動詞 + 接続助詞)
*"Because" is a connective particle that indicates the cause (reason).
What are Connective Particles?
Connective particles are a type of particle. By adding connective particles after nouns or verbs, they can become connective words.
Main connective particles include "if, and, even if, because, so, although, while, etc."
- 雨が降れば遠足は中止だ。
- 雨がふっても、遠足は行われる。
Remember that even without using conjunctions like "however, namely," you can make connective words by adding connective particles.
About Honorifics in Conjunctions
We often hear questions about whether there are honorifics for conjunctions.
There are no specific honorifics for conjunctions. However, be careful when using conjunctions in letters and business documents.
Conjunctions that Require Caution in Formal Scenes なので、だから、でも、だって、ので、あと
It is advisable not to use the above conjunctions in formal situations.
Summary
This has been a guide on how to use conjunctions properly.
Be careful not to overuse conjunctions as it can make the text hard to read.
Additionally, be mindful of the conjunctions you use in formal situations.