Using Conjunctions: 'и', 'а', 'или'
Conjunctions are like connecting words that join words, phrases, or clauses. Three essential ones are:
- и: Simply means "and," connecting similar things. (e.g., Я и ты - I and you. Я чита́ю и пишу́ - I read and write.)
- а: Primarily means "but" when showing a contrast, or can also mean "and" to connect related but slightly different ideas. (e.g., Он учи́тель, а она́ студе́нтка - He is a teacher, but she is a student. Я иду́, а ты остаёшься - I am going, and you are staying.)
- или: Means "or," offering an alternative. (e.g., Ко́фе или чай? - Coffee or tea? Вы придёте или оста́нетесь до́ма? - Will you come or stay home?)