Basic Connectors: Learn common conjunctions and how they connect sentences.

In this lesson, you will learn the basic connectors in Czech, which are essential for connecting sentences and expressing relationships between ideas. A connector, also known as a conjunction, is a word that links words, phrases, or clauses together. Understanding and using connectors will help you form cohesive and clear sentences in Czech.

1. Coordinating Connectors

Coordinating connectors are used to connect words, phrases, or clauses of equal importance. They join elements that are similar or have the same grammatical value. Here are some common coordinating connectors in Czech:

• a - and
• nebo - or
• ale - but
• ani - neither/nor
• přestože - although
• protože - because
• jak - as
• nejen... ale i - not only... but also

Example:

• Já studuji a pracuji. - I study and work.
• Můžeš si vybrat kávu nebo čaj. - You can choose coffee or tea.
• Mám rád hudbu, ale nemám hudební nástroj. - I like music, but I don't have a musical instrument.
• Oni neumí plavat ani tancovat. - They don't know how to swim or dance.
• Přestože pršelo, vyšel jsem ven. - Although it was raining, I went outside.
• Nemohu přijít, protože mám hodinu. - I can't come because I have a class.
• Sedím u okna, jak čtu knihu. - I am sitting by the window, as I read a book.
• Nejen umí hrát na kytaru, ale i zpívá. - He not only plays the guitar, but also sings.

2. Subordinating Connectors

Subordinating connectors are used to join a main clause with a dependent or subordinate clause. The subordinate clause modifies or provides additional information to the main clause. Here are some common subordinating connectors in Czech:

• že - that
• aby - so that/in order to
• když - when
• jakmile - as soon as
• než - before
• jestliže - if
• protože - because

Example:

• Věřím, že je to pravda. - I believe that it is true.
• Učím se, aby získal lepší známky. - I am studying so that I can get better grades.
• Zavolám ti, když budu mít čas. - I will call you when I have time.
• Půjdu ven, jakmile přestane pršet. - I will go outside as soon as it stops raining.
• Pozastavil se, než odpověděl na otázku. - He paused before answering the question.
• Přijdu, jestliže budeš potřebovat pomoc. - I will come if you need help.
• Přišel pozdě, protože ztratil klíče. - He came late because he lost his keys.

3. Correlative Connectors

Correlative connectors are used in pairs to join sentence elements for emphasis or to show a relationship between them. They consist of two parts that complement each other. Here are some common correlative connectors in Czech:

• nejen... ale i - not only... but also
• sice... ale - indeed... but
• buď... nebo - either... or
• ani... ani - neither... nor
• jak... tak - both... and
• čím... tím - the more... the more

Example:

• Sandra je nejen krásná, ale i inteligentní. - Sandra is not only beautiful, but also intelligent.
• Sice je krásný den, ale mraky se blíží. - Indeed it is a beautiful day, but the clouds are coming.
• Můžeš si vybrat buď kávu, nebo čaj. - You can choose either coffee or tea.
• Oni neumí ani plavat, ani tancovat. - They can neither swim nor dance.
• Přišli jak rodiče, tak i děti. - They came both parents and children.
• Čím více cvičíš, tím lepší budeš. - The more you practice, the better you will become.

By understanding and using these basic connectors, you will be able to effectively connect sentences, express relationships, and enhance the clarity and coherence of your Czech language skills. Keep practicing and incorporating these connectors into your conversations and writing. Good luck!