conjunciones básicas: y, o, pero, porque grammar in Spanish

Language: Spanish
Level: A2
Unit: Preposiciones y conjunciones
Practice types: 0

What this grammar point covers

In Spanish, 'y', 'o', 'pero', and 'porque' are basic conjunctions. They connect words, phrases, or sentences to show relationships like addition, choice, contrast, or reason.

When to use it

Use these conjunctions to join ideas in Spanish. 'Y' is for adding information, 'o' is for giving options, 'pero' is for showing contrast, and 'porque' is for giving reasons.

Key forms

'y' (and)
'o' (or)
'pero' (but)
'porque' (because)

Examples

Me gusta el café y el té.

English: I like coffee and tea.

¿Quieres agua o jugo?

English: Do you want water or juice?

Es pequeño pero rápido.

English: It is small but fast.

No salgo porque llueve.

English: I am not going out because it is raining.

Tips

Use 'y' to add things, but remember it changes to 'e' before words that start with 'i-' or 'hi-'.
Do not use a comma before 'y' or 'o' in a list.
'Porque' gives a reason. Do not confuse it with 'por qué', which is for questions.

Exceptions and edge cases

'Y' changes to 'e' before words starting with 'i-' or 'hi-' (for example: 'padre e hijo').
'O' changes to 'u' before words starting with 'o-' or 'ho-' (for example: 'siete u ocho').