Coordination

Definition

Coordination refers to the grammatical principle of linking words, phrases, or clauses of equal rank, often using coordinating conjunctions like 'and', 'but', and 'or'. This concept is important because it allows for the smooth combination of ideas and elements in a sentence, ensuring clarity and balance in writing.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Coordination helps to create compound sentences that convey multiple related ideas without losing clarity.
2. In writing, effective use of coordination can enhance readability and make complex ideas easier to understand.
3. Overusing coordination can lead to run-on sentences, so it's important to strike a balance between coordination and subordination.
4. Coordination is essential for maintaining parallel structure, which improves the flow and coherence of writing.
5. Using a variety of coordinating conjunctions can enrich writing style and add subtlety to the relationships between ideas.

Review Questions

• How does coordination enhance the clarity of complex sentences?
  • Coordination enhances clarity in complex sentences by allowing for the combination of multiple independent ideas without overwhelming the reader. By using coordinating conjunctions, writers can link related thoughts in a balanced way, making it easier for readers to follow the logic of the sentence. This is particularly useful in conveying intricate relationships between concepts without resorting to overly complicated structures.
• What are the potential pitfalls of relying too heavily on coordination in writing?
  • Relying too heavily on coordination can lead to run-on sentences, where multiple independent clauses are strung together without appropriate punctuation or breaks. This can confuse readers and obscure the intended meaning. Additionally, excessive coordination may diminish the impact of individual ideas, making writing feel monotonous. It’s essential to balance coordination with subordination to maintain clarity and depth.
• Evaluate the importance of coordination in achieving concision and clarity in written communication.
  • Coordination plays a crucial role in achieving concision and clarity because it allows writers to express complex ideas succinctly while maintaining balance. By effectively linking similar thoughts with coordinating conjunctions, writers can reduce wordiness and avoid unnecessary repetition. This not only helps readers understand the relationships between ideas but also enhances the overall flow of writing. Thus, mastering coordination is vital for clear and effective communication.

Related terms

Coordinating Conjunctions:

Words used to connect grammatically equal elements, such as 'and', 'but', and 'or'.

Compound Sentences: Sentences that contain at least two independent clauses joined by a coordinating conjunction or a semicolon.

Parallel Structure:

The use of the same grammatical form within a sentence to create balance and rhythm, often employed alongside coordination.