A conjunctive adverb (adverbial conjunction, transitional device) can be used to join two independent clauses, making a compound sentence.

Like a conjunction, it connects ideas, but it is stronger. It shows a more specific relationship and usually acts as a transition between the clauses. It can combine, compare, contrast, emphasize, summarize, illustrate, show sequence, and concede that the reader already knows an idea. (Notice that all the ideas in this series are verbs or verb phrases so they are parallel.)

    Weak: Most Labrador retrievers are friendly, but some can be mean.
    Stronger: Most Labrador retrievers are friendly; however, some can be mean.

Some common conjunctive adverbs
accordingly
also
anyway
besides
certainly
consequently
conversely
finally
furthermore
hence     however
incidentally
indeed
instead
likewise
meanwhile
moreover
next
nevertheless
nonetheless     otherwise
similarly
specifically
still
subsequently
then
therefore
thus

Beware: This is not a complete list, and all of these words are not always used this way. Memorizing the list is not useful. Analyzing how words work together in a sentence is the best way to find them.

Definition:
    Conjunctive adverbs can also be used in the middle of a sentence as parenthetical expressions.

    I know Jeremiah can, in fact, sing very well.

Conjunctive adverbs used as parenthetical expressions include the list above and these common compound ones.
for example
namely     on the contrary
in fact     that is
on the other hand

Punctuating Conjunctive Adverbs

When used in a simple sentence as a parenthetical expression, the conjunctive adverb has commas around it because it is not grammatically a part of the sentence. It may seem like an adverb, but it is usually just something people say in conversation.

    We are, however, not ready to go.

If it is used to combine sentences, a semicolon is used before the conjunctive adverb. (Think of a semicolon as two commas – one that would have been in front of a coordinating conjunction plus one that shows that however is parenthetical.)

    I am ready; however, you are not.

Sentences with conjunctive adverbs can also be written as separate sentences.

    I am ready. However, my sister is not.

 Instructions: Use each of these conjunctive adverbs in one of the following sentences:

however        besides         later           instead              still

Example: I planned on going to the beach. Instead, I’m stuck inside

1. He complained a lot;_____________________ , no one helped him.
2. I really wanted the red one;_________________ , I bought the blue one.
3. I wanted to go;__________________ , I saved my money.
4. There are many reasons to work hard;________________________ , play can be fun.
5. I will walk to the park;__________________________ , I will stop for a hamburger.

 Instructions: Rewrite the following sentences with the proper punctuation.

Example: I planned on going to the beach; Instead, I’m stuck inside.

1. 1. The show was canceled, anyway, I didn’t really want to go.
   2. I love music however, I cannot keep a beat.
   3. The dog was really scary; therefore I walked to the other side of the street.
   4. Eating healthy is important: otherwise, you will be sick a lot.
   5. Now I understand triangles before, I was totally lost.

Following are some common conjunctive adverbs, plus
general comments on their usage:

Special Note:

Conjunctive adverbs are challenging to use appropriately
because they have special requirements for the kinds of
ideas and information that they connect.

Combine the sentences in each of the following numbered items.First one is done for you.

(1) Vexillology means the study of flags; (Use in fact.) This word comes from the Latinvexillum, meaning a square flag or banner. (2) Many thousands of years ago,
Egyptians flew the first flags;______________ They probably tied streamers to poles and
carried them into battle. (3) In battle, flags were important because generals could
use them to locate their soldiers;___________ Flags identified enemy troops so
that archers knew where to aim their arrows.
(4) Most national flags display one or more of seven basic colors;_________ These colors have
distinct meanings for the countries that use them. (5) The Danish flag has a white
cross on a red field because a Danish king once saw a white cross in the red sky;___________ The
red and white of the Austrian flag derive from the bloodstained cloak and the belt of
a crusader. (6) Five Central American countries were once united under a blue and
white flag;______________ Each of these independent countries now uses these colors in its national
flag. (7) Blue, green, red, and white stand for Arab unity;_____________ These colors appear in the
flags of both Jordan and Kuwait. (8) Often the stars on flags indicate unity;_______________ Stars may
show how many individual states or provinces are united within a single country.
(9) No one knows who designed the flag of the United States. No one knows why the
Continental Congress chose red, white, and blue for its colors. (10) The designers of
the Great Seal of the United States;_____________ which also displays red, white, and blue, provided
the meanings for these colors;____________ We know that red means hardiness and courage, white
means purity and innocence, and blue means vigilance, perseverance, and justice.

In the following sentences, underline the conjunctive adverb.

1. Jason did not study; hence, he failed the test.
2. You can go when the chores are done; otherwise, you will miss the party.
3. We took blankets for the picnic; also, Sally brought food.
4. The rain was pouring down; still, no one left the beach.
5. You start cooking the steaks; meanwhile, I will make the dessert.
6. I really like that puppy; however, my landlord does not allow pets.
7. My dad spends a lot of time on the yard; therefore, our house has the nicest yard
on the block.
8. Jose did not read the instructions; so, he did not assemble it properly.
9. She got 20 presents for her birthday; nevertheless, she was not happy.
10. I am sorry you can’t go; besides, the weather forecast calls for rain.