Coordinating conjunctions in Spanish are words that connect clauses, words, or phrases of equal grammatical rank. They include “y” (and), “o” (or), “pero” (but), and others, allowing for the creation of compound sentences and lists.

Coordinating conjunctions are essential for linking thoughts together in a coherent and fluid manner. They connect elements of the same grammatical type, whether they are words, phrases, or independent clauses. Understanding these conjunctions helps create more complex and natural sentences in Spanish.

Connect elements of equal grammatical rank
Can join words, phrases, or independent clauses
Do not change the conjugation or mood of verbs
Some require special punctuation rules (e.g., “pero” often uses a comma)

Main Coordinating Conjunctions

Here are the most common coordinating conjunctions used in Spanish:

. Y (And)

Adds one element to another.
Example: “Tengo un perro y un gato.” (I have a dog and a cat.)

. O (Or)

Presents alternatives or choices.
Example: “¿Quieres té o café?” (Do you want tea or coffee?)

. Pero (But)

Introduces a contrast or exception.
Example: “Quiero ir, pero estoy cansado.” (I want to go, but I’m tired.)

. Ni (Nor)

Joins two negative alternatives.
Example: “No quiero té ni café.” (I don’t want tea nor coffee.)

. Sino (But rather)

Corrects a previous negative statement.
Example: “No estudio medicina, sino ingeniería.” (I don’t study medicine, but rather engineering.)

Summary

Coordinating conjunctions are simple yet powerful tools in Spanish grammar. The key conjunctions are:

y (and)
o (or)
pero (but)
ni (nor)
sino (but rather)

They allow you to join ideas smoothly and create more sophisticated sentences.

Next Up: Subordinating Conjunctions

Last updated: Thu Jun 12, 2025