Conjunctions that start with the letter N

Conjunctions are the glue that holds sentences and paragraphs together, enabling us to create complex and meaningful expressions. Mastering conjunctions is essential for clear and effective communication in English.

This article focuses specifically on conjunctions that start with the letter N, exploring their definitions, usage, and providing numerous examples to enhance your understanding. Whether you are an English language learner, a student, or simply someone looking to refine their grammar skills, this guide will provide you with the knowledge and practice needed to confidently use “N” conjunctions in your writing and speech.

This comprehensive guide will cover the intricacies of these conjunctions, offering detailed explanations, practical examples, and helpful exercises. By the end of this article, you will have a solid grasp of how to effectively use conjunctions starting with “N” to improve your overall language proficiency.

Contents

Definition of Conjunctions

A conjunction is a word that connects words, phrases, or clauses in a sentence. Conjunctions serve as essential tools for creating compound and complex sentences, allowing for more intricate and fluid writing.

They establish relationships between different parts of a sentence, indicating connections such as addition, contrast, cause and effect, and sequence. Without conjunctions, our language would be fragmented and lack coherence.

Conjunctions are classified into three main types: coordinating conjunctions, subordinating conjunctions, and correlative conjunctions. Each type serves a distinct purpose and follows specific grammatical rules. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for using conjunctions correctly and effectively.

Structural Breakdown of Conjunctions

The structure of a sentence changes significantly depending on the type of conjunction used. Coordinating conjunctions typically join elements of equal grammatical rank, such as two independent clauses or two nouns.

Subordinating conjunctions, on the other hand, introduce dependent clauses and connect them to an independent clause. Correlative conjunctions are always used in pairs and connect elements of equal grammatical weight.

The correct placement of a conjunction is vital for clarity. Misplacing a conjunction can alter the meaning of a sentence or make it grammatically incorrect.

For example, in the sentence “I went to the store, and I bought milk,” the coordinating conjunction “and” correctly joins two independent clauses. However, if we were to say, “I went to the store and bought milk,” the structure changes, and “and” now connects two verbs within a single clause.

Types of Conjunctions

Coordinating Conjunctions

Coordinating conjunctions connect words, phrases, and independent clauses of equal grammatical rank. The most common coordinating conjunctions can be remembered using the acronym FANBOYS: For, And, Nor, But, Or, Yet, So. These conjunctions are essential for creating compound sentences and listing items in a series.

For example, “I like coffee, and I like tea” joins two independent clauses. “She bought apples, bananas, and oranges” connects a series of nouns. Each of these examples demonstrates the role of coordinating conjunctions in creating balanced and coherent sentences.

Subordinating Conjunctions

Subordinating conjunctions introduce dependent clauses and connect them to independent clauses. These conjunctions establish a relationship between the dependent and independent clauses, indicating time, cause, condition, or contrast. Common subordinating conjunctions include although, because, if, since, when, and while.

For instance, in the sentence “Because it was raining, I took an umbrella,” “because” introduces the dependent clause “it was raining” and explains why the speaker took an umbrella. The correct use of subordinating conjunctions is crucial for constructing complex sentences that express nuanced relationships between ideas.

Correlative Conjunctions

Correlative conjunctions are pairs of conjunctions that work together to connect elements of equal grammatical weight. These conjunctions add emphasis and clarity to sentences. Common correlative conjunctions include both…and, either…or, neither…nor, not only…but also, and whether…or.

For example, “Both John and Mary are coming to the party” uses “both…and” to connect two subjects. “You can either have soup or salad” uses “either…or” to present two options. Correlative conjunctions require careful attention to ensure grammatical parallelism and logical consistency.

Examples of Conjunctions Starting with ‘N’

This section will provide detailed examples of conjunctions starting with the letter “N,” including neither…nor, no sooner…than, now, now that, and not only…but also. Each example will be presented in context to illustrate its proper usage and meaning.

Neither…Nor

The correlative conjunction “neither…nor” is used to indicate that two or more things are not true or do not happen. It presents two negative options or possibilities.

When using “neither…nor,” the verb agreement depends on the noun closest to the verb.

For example, “Neither the cat nor the dog wants to go outside.” In this sentence, “neither…nor” indicates that both the cat and the dog are unwilling to go outside.

Example	Explanation
Neither John nor his friends are going to the concert.	Indicates that John and his friends are not attending the concert.
Neither the red shirt nor the blue one fits me.	Indicates that both shirts do not fit.
Neither rain nor snow could stop them from reaching the summit.	Indicates that neither weather condition deterred them.
Neither my mother nor my father knows how to operate this device.	Indicates that both parents are unfamiliar with the device.
Neither the cake nor the pie looks appealing.	Indicates that neither dessert is attractive.
Neither the teacher nor the students were prepared for the pop quiz.	Indicates that neither the teacher nor the students anticipated the quiz.
Neither the car nor the truck is available for rent.	Indicates that both vehicles are unavailable.
Neither the book nor the movie captures the essence of the story.	Indicates that both adaptations fail to convey the core themes.
Neither the president nor the vice president was aware of the situation.	Indicates that both leaders were uninformed.
Neither the food nor the service was satisfactory.	Indicates that both aspects of the dining experience were subpar.
Neither the heat nor the humidity made it comfortable to be outside.	Indicates that both weather conditions contributed to discomfort.
Neither the singer nor the band could perform due to illness.	Indicates that both the singer and the band were unable to perform.
Neither the company nor its competitors are doing well in the current market.	Indicates that both the company and its rivals are struggling.
Neither the old house nor the new apartment feels like home.	Indicates that neither residence provides a sense of belonging.
Neither the coach nor the players were happy with the outcome.	Indicates that both the coach and the players were dissatisfied.
Neither the software nor the hardware is compatible with the system.	Indicates that both components are incompatible.
Neither the painting nor the sculpture impressed the art critic.	Indicates that both artworks failed to impress the critic.
Neither the proposal nor the report was approved by the committee.	Indicates that both documents were rejected.
Neither the scientist nor the researchers could explain the phenomenon.	Indicates that neither the scientist nor the researchers understood it.
Neither the country nor its allies are willing to negotiate.	Indicates that neither the country nor its allies are open to negotiations.
Neither the economy nor the environment is improving.	Indicates that both the economy and the environment are deteriorating.
Neither the artist nor the gallery owner expected such a positive reception.	Indicates that both were surprised by the positive feedback.
Neither the storm nor the power outage could deter the community spirit.	Indicates that neither event dampened the community’s morale.
Neither the director nor the actors felt confident about the play’s success.	Indicates that both lacked confidence in the play’s success.
Neither the lecture nor the seminar provided the information I needed.	Indicates that neither event addressed my information needs.
Neither the dog nor the cat seems interested in the new toy.	Indicates that both pets are uninterested in the toy.
Neither the candidate nor the campaign manager anticipated the scandal.	Indicates that neither foresaw the scandal.
Neither the chef nor the kitchen staff were prepared for the sudden rush.	Indicates that both were caught off guard by the influx of customers.

No Sooner…Than

“No sooner…than” is used to indicate that one event happens immediately after another. It emphasizes the close proximity in time between the two events.

The first event is usually expressed in the past perfect tense, and the second event in the simple past tense.

For example, “No sooner had I arrived home than the phone rang.” This sentence indicates that the phone rang almost immediately after the speaker arrived home.

Example	Explanation
No sooner had the movie started than the power went out.	The power outage occurred almost immediately after the movie began.
No sooner had she finished her presentation than she received a job offer.	The job offer came very shortly after the presentation.
No sooner had the sun risen than the birds began to sing.	The birds started singing almost immediately after sunrise.
No sooner had he sat down to eat than the doorbell rang.	The doorbell rang as soon as he began to eat.
No sooner had the rain stopped than the children ran outside to play.	The children went out to play almost immediately after the rain stopped.
No sooner had the teacher started the lesson than the fire alarm went off.	The fire alarm sounded almost immediately after the lesson started.
No sooner had the guests arrived than the party started.	The party began almost immediately after the guests arrived.
No sooner had the band finished their song than the crowd erupted in applause.	The crowd applauded as soon as the song ended.
No sooner had the project been completed than a new one was assigned.	A new project was assigned almost immediately after the first one was finished.
No sooner had the email been sent than he realized he had made a mistake.	He recognized the mistake almost immediately after sending the email.
No sooner had the door closed than the baby started crying.	The baby began to cry as soon as the door was shut.
No sooner had they reached the summit than the weather turned bad.	The weather worsened almost immediately after they reached the summit.
No sooner had the contract been signed than the problems began.	The issues started almost immediately after the contract was signed.
No sooner had the announcement been made than the stock prices plummeted.	The stock prices fell almost immediately after the announcement.
No sooner had the students entered the classroom than the exam papers were distributed.	The exam papers were handed out as soon as the students entered.
No sooner had the scientist discovered the cure than the media reported it.	The media reported the discovery almost immediately after it was made.
No sooner had the book been published than it became a bestseller.	The book became a bestseller almost immediately after its publication.
No sooner had the agreement been reached than it was broken.	The agreement was violated almost immediately after it was made.
No sooner had the train left the station than I realized I had forgotten my wallet.	I realized I had forgotten my wallet shortly after the train’s departure.
No sooner had the soldiers returned home than they were called back to duty.	The soldiers were recalled shortly after returning home.
No sooner had the website launched than it crashed due to high traffic.	The website crashed shortly after launch because of heavy user load.
No sooner had the renovations been completed than the building was damaged by a storm.	The building was damaged by a storm shortly after the renovations.
No sooner had the company released the new product than competitors launched similar products.	Competitors released similar products shortly after the company’s launch.
No sooner had the chef prepared the dish than the customers devoured it.	The customers ate the dish almost immediately after it was prepared.
No sooner had the government implemented the policy than the public protested against it.	The public protested shortly after the policy was implemented.
No sooner had the detective solved the case than another mystery arose.	Another mystery appeared shortly after the detective solved the first case.
No sooner had the diplomat negotiated the peace treaty than the war resumed.	The war started again shortly after the peace treaty was negotiated.
No sooner had the athlete won the gold medal than he announced his retirement.	He announced his retirement shortly after winning the gold medal.

Now

The conjunction “now” can function as a subordinating conjunction to indicate a reason or cause, similar to “because” or “since.” It introduces a clause that explains the reason for the main clause.

For example, “Now that everyone is here, we can start the meeting.” In this sentence, “now” introduces the reason for starting the meeting—everyone’s presence.

Example	Explanation
Now that the rain has stopped, we can go for a walk.	Indicates that the walk is possible because the rain has stopped.
Now that you have finished your homework, you can watch TV.	Indicates that watching TV is allowed because the homework is done.
Now that the project is complete, we can focus on other tasks.	Indicates that other tasks can be addressed because the project is finished.
Now that the holidays are over, we can get back to our regular routine.	Indicates a return to routine because the holidays have ended.
Now that I have a car, I can visit my friends more often.	Indicates that visiting friends is easier because of having a car.
Now that you know the rules, you can play the game.	Indicates that playing the game is possible because the rules are known.
Now that the weather is warmer, we can have a picnic.	Indicates that a picnic is suitable because of the warmer weather.
Now that the renovations are finished, the house looks much better.	Indicates that the house’s appearance has improved due to the renovations.
Now that you have your degree, you can start your career.	Indicates that starting a career is possible because of the degree.
Now that the kids are in bed, we can have some quiet time.	Indicates that quiet time is possible because the kids are asleep.
Now that the conference is over, we can share our findings.	Indicates that sharing findings is possible because the conference is done.
Now that the contract is signed, we can begin the work.	Indicates that the work can start because the contract is signed.
Now that the exam is over, we can relax.	Indicates that relaxation is possible because the exam is finished.
Now that the deadline has passed, we can review the submissions.	Indicates that reviewing submissions is possible because the deadline is over.
Now that the election is over, we can focus on governing.	Indicates that governing can start because the election is finished.
Now that the meeting has adjourned, we can proceed with our tasks.	Indicates that proceeding with tasks is possible because the meeting is over.
Now that the investigation is complete, we can take action.	Indicates that action can be taken because the investigation is done.
Now that the renovations are complete, the house is worth more.	Indicates that the house’s value has increased due to the renovations.
Now that the website is live, we can start marketing.	Indicates that marketing can begin because the website is launched.
Now that the product is launched, we can gather customer feedback.	Indicates that customer feedback can be collected because the product is available.
Now that you’ve learned the basics, you can start practicing more advanced techniques.	You can now practice more complex techniques because you know the fundamentals.
Now that the snow has melted, we can start gardening.	Gardening is possible now that the snow is gone.
Now that the baby is asleep, we can enjoy some peace and quiet.	We can be quiet because the baby is sleeping.
Now that the project is approved, we can allocate resources.	We can allocate resources because the project has been approved.
Now that the contract is finalized, we can schedule the kickoff meeting.	We can schedule the meeting because the contract is complete.
Now that the data is analyzed, we can draw some conclusions.	We can draw conclusions because the data has been analyzed.
Now that the research is published, it will be available to the scientific community.	The research will be available because it’s been published.

Now That

“Now that” is a subordinating conjunction that indicates a cause-and-effect relationship. It signifies that because something has happened or is the case, another action or situation follows.

It’s similar in meaning to “since” or “because.”

For example: “Now that the rain has stopped, we can go for a walk.” This means because the rain has stopped, we are able to go for a walk.

Example	Explanation
Now that you have your driver’s license, you can drive yourself to school.	Because you have your license, you can now drive to school.
Now that the pandemic is subsiding, we can plan a vacation.	Because the pandemic is lessening, a vacation is now possible.
Now that the renovations are complete, we can finally move in.	Because the renovations are finished, we can move into the house.
Now that the course is over, I have more free time.	Because the course has ended, I have more spare time.
Now that the children are older, we can travel more easily.	Because the children are grown, travel is easier.
Now that the project is finished, we can celebrate our success.	Since the project is done, we can celebrate.
Now that you have learned the basics, you can practice advanced techniques.	Because you know the basics, you can practice advanced techniques.
Now that the weather has improved, we can have a picnic in the park.	Since the weather is better, a picnic is now possible.
Now that the deadline has passed, we can review the submissions.	Because the deadline is over, we can review the submissions.
Now that the agreement is signed, we can begin the project.	Because the agreement is signed, the project can begin.
Now that you’re here, the meeting can finally begin.	Because you have arrived, we can start the meeting.
Now that he’s retired, my father spends most of his time gardening.	Because he is retired, my father gardens frequently.
Now that she’s moved to a bigger house, she can host more guests.	Because she has a bigger house, she can host more guests.
Now that the school year is over, we can all relax and enjoy the summer.	Because the school year has ended, we can relax during the summer.
Now that the company is expanding, there will be more job opportunities.	Because the company is growing, there will be more jobs.
Now that the research has been published, it will be available to the public.	Because the research is published, the public can access it.
Now that the software is updated, it should run more efficiently.	Because the software is updated, it should be efficient.
Now that the construction is completed, the new bridge is open to traffic.	Because the construction is done, the bridge is open.
Now that the investigation is concluded, the authorities can take action.	Because the investigation is over, the authorities can act.
Now that the students have graduated, they are ready to start their careers.	Because the students have graduated, they are ready to start their careers.
Now that the chef has perfected the recipe, the restaurant can add it to the menu.	Because the chef has perfected the recipe, the restaurant can add it to the menu.
Now that the band has released their new album, they are going on tour.	Because the band has released their new album, they are going on tour.
Now that the company has secured funding, they can begin developing the new product.	Because the company has secured funding, they can begin developing the new product.
Now that the author has finished writing the book, it will be sent to the publisher.	Because the author has finished writing the book, it will be sent to the publisher.

Not Only…But Also

“Not only…but also” is a correlative conjunction used to add emphasis to two related pieces of information. It highlights that both elements are important or significant.

For example, “She is not only intelligent but also very kind.” This sentence emphasizes that she possesses both intelligence and kindness, making her characteristics particularly noteworthy.

Example	Explanation
He is not only a talented musician but also a skilled painter.	Highlights his talents in both music and painting.
She not only speaks English fluently but also understands French.	Emphasizes her proficiency in both languages.
The movie is not only entertaining but also thought-provoking.	Indicates the movie is both fun and makes you think.
The restaurant is not only known for its food but also its excellent service.	Highlights both the food quality and service.
The athlete is not only strong but also incredibly fast.	Emphasizes both their strength and speed.
The book is not only informative but also very engaging.	Indicates the book is both educational and interesting.
The city is not only beautiful but also rich in history.	Highlights both the beauty and historical significance.
The course is not only challenging but also very rewarding.	Emphasizes the difficulty and the benefits.
The project is not only successful but also innovative.	Highlights both the success and creativity.
The product is not only affordable but also high-quality.	Indicates the product is cheap and top-notch.
The speaker is not only knowledgeable but also very charismatic.	Emphasizes both their expertise and personality.
The event is not only fun but also raises awareness for a good cause.	Highlights the enjoyment and the charitable aspect.
The car is not only fuel-efficient but also environmentally friendly.	Indicates the car is economical and good for the environment.
The software is not only user-friendly but also packed with features.	Emphasizes both the ease of use and the functionality.
The hotel is not only luxurious but also conveniently located.	Highlights both the luxury and the location.
The solution is not only effective but also cost-efficient.	Indicates the solution works well and saves money.
The company is not only profitable but also socially responsible.	Emphasizes both the financial success and ethics.
The artist is not only talented but also very dedicated.	Highlights both their skill and commitment.
The system is not only secure but also easy to manage.	Indicates the system is safe and simple to use.
The teacher is not only patient but also very understanding.	Highlights both the patience and the understanding.
The food is not only delicious but also visually appealing.	Emphasizes both the taste and the appearance.
The athlete is not only physically fit but also mentally tough.	Highlights both the physical fitness and the mental fortitude.
The apartment is not only spacious but also has a great view.	Emphasizes both the size and the view.
The politician is not only experienced but also has a clear vision for the future.	Highlights both the experience and the vision.

Usage Rules for ‘N’ Conjunctions

Each conjunction has specific rules governing its usage. For “neither…nor,” ensure that the verb agrees with the noun closest to it.

With “no sooner…than,” use the past perfect tense for the first event and the simple past tense for the second. “Now” and “now that” should be used to introduce clauses that provide a reason or cause for the main clause.

“Not only…but also” requires parallel structure, meaning that the grammatical structure following “not only” should match the structure following “but also.”

Consistency in tense and structure is crucial for maintaining clarity and correctness. Pay close attention to these rules to avoid common errors and ensure effective communication.

Common Mistakes with ‘N’ Conjunctions

One common mistake is incorrect verb agreement with “neither…nor.” For example, saying “Neither John nor Mary are going” is incorrect if “John” is singular. The correct form is “Neither John nor Mary is going” if you are referring to John individually and Mary individually.

Another frequent error is using the wrong tense with “no sooner…than,” such as “No sooner I arrived than the phone rang,” which should be “No sooner had I arrived than the phone rang.”

Misusing “now” and “now that” by not clearly indicating a cause-and-effect relationship is also common. For instance, saying “Now I am here” without explaining the consequence is incomplete.

Finally, failing to maintain parallel structure with “not only…but also” can lead to awkward sentences, such as “She is not only intelligent but she also has kindness,” which should be “She is not only intelligent but also kind.”

Correct vs. Incorrect Examples:

Incorrect: Neither the books nor the pen are on the table.
Correct: Neither the books nor the pen is on the table.
Incorrect: No sooner I had arrived than the phone rang.
Correct: No sooner had I arrived than the phone rang.
Incorrect: She is not only intelligent but she also is kind.
Correct: She is not only intelligent but also kind.

Practice Exercises

Test your understanding of “N” conjunctions with these practice exercises. Fill in the blanks with the appropriate conjunctions.

Question	Answer
_____ he _____ his brother could solve the puzzle.	Neither, nor
_____ had she started cooking _____ the guests arrived.	No sooner, than
_____ that the project is finished, we can take a break.	Now
_____ the rain has stopped, we can go outside.	Now that
He is _____ talented _____ also very humble.	Not only, but
_____ the cat _____ the dog wants to eat.	Neither, nor
_____ had I left the house _____ it started to rain.	No sooner, than
_____ that you have finished your work, you can relax.	Now
_____ the weather is nice, we should go to the beach.	Now that
She is _____ beautiful _____ also intelligent.	Not only, but

More Challenging Exercises:

Rewrite the sentence using “neither…nor”: John doesn’t like coffee, and Mary doesn’t like coffee.
Rewrite the sentence using “no sooner…than”: I closed the door, and immediately the phone rang.
Combine the sentences using “now that”: You have finished your studies. You can start looking for a job.
Combine the sentences using “not only…but also”: He is a talented singer. He is also a great dancer.

Advanced Topics

For advanced learners, exploring the nuances of “N” conjunctions in complex sentence structures can be beneficial. Consider how these conjunctions interact with other grammatical elements, such as adverbs and prepositional phrases.

Additionally, analyze the stylistic effects of using these conjunctions in different types of writing, from formal essays to creative narratives.

Further research into the historical usage of these conjunctions can also provide deeper insights into their evolution and current applications. Consulting style guides and grammar resources can offer additional guidance on advanced usage scenarios.

FAQs on Conjunctions that start with the letter N

Can “now” be used at the beginning of a sentence?

Yes, “now” can be used at the beginning of a sentence as a subordinating conjunction to introduce a clause that provides a reason or cause for the main clause.

Is it necessary to use a comma with “neither…nor”?

A comma is generally not necessary unless the elements being joined are long or complex clauses. For simple phrases, a comma is usually omitted.

What is the correct tense to use with “no sooner…than”?

The past perfect tense should be used with “no sooner,” and the simple past tense should be used with “than.”

Can “not only…but also” be split across multiple sentences?

No, “not only…but also” should be used within the same sentence to maintain its correlative function and emphasize both elements.

Are “now” and “now that” interchangeable?

While they both indicate a cause-and-effect relationship, “now that” is generally used when referring to a completed action or a current state, while “now” can sometimes be used more broadly.

Conclusion

Mastering conjunctions, especially those starting with the letter “N,” is crucial for effective communication. By understanding the definitions, usage rules, and common mistakes associated with neither…nor, no sooner…than, now, now that, and not only…but also, you can significantly enhance your writing and speaking skills. Practice the exercises provided and continue to explore advanced topics to further refine your understanding.

With dedication and practice, you can confidently and correctly use these conjunctions to create clear, coherent, and compelling sentences. Keep this guide as a reference, and continue to explore the nuances of English grammar to achieve your language proficiency goals.

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