Connectors

1.1 Use «and» to join two or more nouns or noun phrases (people, things, places).

Examples

I have a cat and a dog at home.

The tall woman and the short man are friends.

1.2 Use «but» to show contrast or difference.

Examples

She likes apples, but I like bananas.

He likes football, but not basketball.

1.3 Use «and» to connect two or more verbs or verb phrases in the same sentence.

Examples

We cook and clean together every weekend.

She sings and dances beautifully.

He is a doctor, and he also teaches at the university.

1.4 Use «but» and «although» to show contrast. «Although» can be used at the beginning or in the middle of a sentence.

Examples

He wanted to stay, but he had to leave early.

The cake looks delicious, but it tastes too sweet.

Although she was tired, she finished the project.

He went to the gym, although he had a headache.

1.5 Use «or» to present options or alternatives.

Examples

We can go by bus or take the train.

Would you like tea or juice?

1.6 Use «because» to give a reason for something happening and «so» to show the result of an action. 

Examples

I’m staying home because I’m not feeling well.

She missed the meeting because she overslept.

The store was closed, so I went back home. 

The traffic was heavy, so we missed the show.

You can also use «because of + a noun or a noun phrase» to explain the cause or reason for something.

Examples

The flight was delayed because of fog.

She couldn’t come to the party because of her work.