Definition

Relating to a type of conjunction that shows contrast or separation between ideas or terms.

Example

In the sentence 'You can have tea or coffee, but not both', the word 'or' is used in a disjunctive way.

Conversation

I was reading about different types of conjunctions today.

Oh really? What did you learn?

I found out that the disjunctive ones create contrast, like 'but' or 'or'.

That's interesting! I never thought about conjunctions that way.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

A word or phrase that connects two ideas or clauses in a way that shows they are separate or different from each other.

Example

In the sentence, 'You can have tea or coffee, but not both,' the word 'or' is a disjunctive conjunction.

Conversation

I was reading about grammar rules, and I came across the term disjunctive.

Oh really? What does it mean exactly?

It refers to a type of conjunction that shows a choice, like 'either...or'.

Root Explanation

Disjunctive → It is formed from "dis-" (meaning apart) and "junctus" (from the verb "jungere", meaning to join). The word describes something that separates or distinguishes between alternatives, indicating a break in connection.

Memory Tip

Think of 'apart' ('dis-') and 'joining' ('junctus') to remember that 'disjunctive' refers to something that separates or distinguishes between options.

Visually Confused Words