Paired conjunctions
Definition
Paired conjunctions, also called correlative conjunctions, work in matching pairs to link parallel elements. Common pairs include both ... and, either ... or, neither ... nor, not only ... but also, and whether ... or.
Examples
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Both Maya and Leo agreed.
Both ... and joins two subjects.
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We can either leave now or wait until six.
Either ... or presents two alternatives.
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The plan is not only practical but also affordable.
The pair adds a second, emphasized quality.
Single conjunction vs. paired conjunction
Maya and Leo agreed.
And simply joins the two names.
Both Maya and Leo agreed.
Both ... and emphasizes that the statement applies to each person.
Paired conjunctions structure the relationship across both linked elements and often add emphasis or contrast.
The linked elements should be grammatically parallel
Each half of the pair should introduce matching structures: noun with noun, phrase with phrase, or clause with clause. Agreement with either ... or and neither ... nor often follows the nearer subject.
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She enjoys both reading novels and watching films.
Two parallel -ing phrases are linked.
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Neither the manager nor the assistants are available.
The verb agrees naturally with the nearer plural subject assistants.
Common mistakes
She enjoys both reading novels and to watch films.
She enjoys both reading novels and watching films.
Keep the coordinated elements grammatically parallel.
Either you can call or sending an email.
You can either call or send an email.
Place the pair so that it introduces two parallel base-form verbs.
Quick check
Question 1 of 3
Which sentence keeps the paired elements parallel?
Cooking and painting are parallel -ing forms.Which sentence correctly presents two alternatives?
Either ... or links the parallel base verbs walk and take.Which sentence correctly uses neither ... nor?
The matching pair is neither ... nor.Nice work — you've completed the quick check.
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