Conjunctive Adverb

A conjunctive adverb is a function word that connects two independent clauses. It also provides adverbial emphasis. It is a function word, such as therefore in "She is an expert at spelling; therefore you should reconsider playing Scrabble with her." Some of the most common conjunctive adverbs are: according, afterwards, also, consequently, however, indeed, likewise, moreover, nevertheless, nonetheless, otherwise, similarly, so, still, and therefore. The use of conjunctive adverbs requires a semicolon. Conjunctive adverbs are often confused with coordinating conjunctions (and, but), but the difference is that coordinating conjunctions are used when clauses are of equal "rank" - but conjunctive adverbs are not. Conjunctive adverbs are not considered to be true linking devices. Because conjunctive adverbs are not true conjunctions, a semicolon is required when connecting two independent clauses with one. Conjunctive adverbs other than "so" or "otherwise" require a semicolon preceding them and a comma following them. "So" and "otherwise" do not require a comma following them when they are conjunctive adverbs.