Coordinating Conjunctions

Coordinating conjunctions are used to connect two or more words, phrases, or independent clauses of equal grammatical value. In Italian, you use these to add, contrast, or show alternative ideas.

Common coordinating conjunctions include:
e (and) – joins similar ideas or lists.
o (or) – presents alternatives.
ma, però (but, however) – introduces contrast.
quindi (so, therefore) – presents a consequence.
anche (also, too) – adds information, often at the start or end of a clause.

Examples: * Voglio una pizza e una pasta. * Andiamo al parco o restiamo a casa? * Mi piace il gelato, ma preferisco la torta. * Sono stanco, però devo lavorare. * Non ha studiato, quindi è preoccupato. * Anche lui vuole venire.

Subordinating Conjunctions

Subordinating conjunctions are used to connect a main clause (independent) to a dependent clause, explaining circumstances, reasons, conditions, or time.

Key subordinating conjunctions: anche se (even if, although) – introduces contrast/condition.
che (that) – often introduces subordinate clauses after verbs of perception, thought, or saying.
come (as, how) – makes comparisons or introduces the manner.
dove (where) – introduces a place.
finché (as long as, until) – introduces a time limit.
perché (because, why, so that) – gives a reason or purpose.
quando (when) – specifies time.
se (if) – introduces a condition.

Examples: * Non esco anche se piove. * Penso che sia tardi. * Fai come vuoi. * Vado dove vuoi tu. * Aspetto finché non arrivi. * Studio perché voglio imparare. * Quando arriva il treno? * Se hai fame, mangia qualcosa.

In Italian, when you use a subordinating conjunction, the verb in the subordinate clause often appears at the end, but the word order is generally more flexible than in some other languages. The conjunction che is extremely common with verbs like pensare, credere, dire, and sapere.

Examples: * Credo che tu abbia ragione. * So che è difficile.

Knowing these conjunctions helps you combine your ideas into more complex, natural Italian sentences.