Comprehensive Guide to Conjunctions, Prepositional Phrases, and Science/Technology Vocabulary

Common Prepositional and Conjunctive Phrases in English

The following list details 42 common prepositional and conjunctive phrases frequently encountered in the High School Graduation Examinations (THPT) in Vietnam. Each entry includes the phonetic transcription, Vietnamese meaning, and an illustrative example.

1. according to /əˈkɔːdɪŋ tuː/ (theo như): According to the report, we did well.

2. apart from /əˈpɑːt frəm/ (ngoài ra): Apart from John, nobody came.

3. as a result /æz ə rɪˈzʌlt/ (kết quả là): It rained; as a result, we stayed home.

4. as a result of /æz ə rɪˈzʌlt əv/ (do kết quả của): The flood happened as a result of heavy rain.

5. as if / as though /æz ɪf/, /æz ðəʊ/ (như thể): He speaks as if he knew everything.

6. as long as /æz lɒŋ æz/ (miễn là): You can go out as long as you finish your work.

7. as well as /æz wɛl æz/ (cũng như, ngoài ra): She speaks French as well as English.

8. besides /bɪˈsaɪdz/ (ngoài ra): Besides math, she also likes science.

9. because of /bɪˈkɒz əv/ (bởi vì): The match was canceled because of the rain.

10. contrary to /ˈkɒntrəri tuː/ (trái với): Contrary to his claims, he didn’t do it.

11. due to /djuː tuː/ (do, bởi): His absence was due to illness.

12. despite /dɪˈspaɪt/ (mặc dù): Despite the rain, they went hiking.

13. even though /ˈiːvn ðəʊ/ (mặc dù): Even though he’s rich, he’s not happy.

14. except for /ɪkˈsɛpt fɔː/ (ngoại trừ): Everyone passed except for Tom.

15. furthermore /ˈfɜːðəˌmɔː/ (hơn nữa): He is smart; furthermore, he’s diligent.

16. however /haʊˈɛvər/ (tuy nhiên): He is tired. However, he will come.

17. in addition to /ɪn əˈdɪʃən tuː/ (ngoài ra): In addition to singing, she also dances.

18. in case (of) /ɪn keɪs əv/ (trong trường hợp): Bring an umbrella in case it rains.

19. in favor of /ɪn ˈfeɪvər əv/ (ủng hộ): They voted in favor of the plan.

20. in place of /ɪn pleɪs əv/ (thay cho): Use rice in place of bread.

21. in spite of /ɪn spaɪt əv/ (mặc dù): In spite of the noise, she slept well.

22. in terms of /ɪn tɜːmz əv/ (xét về): In terms of quality, this is the best.

23. in the event that /ɪn ði ɪˈvɛnt ðæt/ (trong trường hợp mà): In the event that he’s late, call me.

24. instead of /ɪnˈstɛd əv/ (thay vì): We drank juice instead of soda.

25. irrespective of /ˌɪrɪˈspɛktɪv əv/ (bất kể): The rules apply irrespective of age.

26. not only… but also /nɒt ˈəʊnli…bʌt ˈɔːlsəʊ/ (không chỉ… mà còn): Not only is she clever, but also kind.

27. on account of /ɒn əˈkaʊnt əv/ (bởi vì): She didn’t come on account of illness.

28. only if /ˈəʊnli ɪf/ (chỉ khi): You can go only if you finish homework.

29. owing to /ˈəʊɪŋ tuː/ (bởi vì): The delay was owing to traffic.

30. provided that /prəˈvaɪdɪd ðæt/ (miễn là): You may join provided that you behave.

31. rather than /ˈrɑːðə ðæn/ (hơn là): I prefer tea rather than coffee.

32. regardless of /rɪˈɡɑːdləs əv/ (bất chấp): She helped regardless of the danger.

33. so… that /səʊ…ðæt/ (quá… đến nỗi): It was so cold that we stayed home.

34. so that /səʊ ðæt/ (để mà): He studies hard so that he can pass.

35. such… that /sʌtʃ…ðæt/ (quá… đến nỗi): It was such a hot day that we stayed in.

36. thanks to /θæŋks tuː/ (nhờ vào): Thanks to your help, I succeeded.

37. therefore /ˈðeəfɔːr/ (do đó): He was late, therefore, he missed the bus.

38. thus /ðʌs/ (do đó): It rained; thus, the match was canceled.

39. unless /ənˈlɛs/ (trừ khi): Don’t call unless it’s urgent.

40. whereas /ˌweəˈræz/ (trong khi - trái ngược): I love tea, whereas he prefers coffee.

41. while /waɪl/ (trong khi - trái nghĩa): While he is rich, he’s not happy.

42. with regard to /wɪð rɪˈɡɑːd tuː/ (liên quan đến): With regard to your request, we agree.

Definition and Functions of Conjunctions

Conjunctions are words used to connect phrases, clauses, sentences, and paragraphs together. Common examples include and, after, before, as soon as, although, so, and but.

Illustrative examples:

• We were wet and tired. (Chúng tôi ướt sũng và mệt mỏi.)
• I got here late. It was a long journey, so I’m really tired now. (Tôi đến đây muộn. Đó là một hành trình dài, vì vậy bây giờ tôi thực sự mệt mỏi.)

Coordinating Conjunctions

Coordinating conjunctions are the most common type used to connect two or more grammatically equivalent units, such as two words, two phrases, or two independent clauses. The most frequent are remembered by the acronym FANBOYS: For, And, Nor, But, Or, Yet, So.

For: Used to explain a reason or purpose. Note that as a conjunction, "for" only stands in the middle of a sentence, followed by a clause, and preceded by a comma. Example: I surf Tiktok every day, for I want to update news of the day.

And: Used to add or supplement one thing to another. Example: I do morning exercises every day to keep healthy and relax.

Nor: Used to add a negative idea to an existing negative idea previously stated. Example: I don’t like watching movies nor shopping. I just keep on reading books.

But: Used to express opposition or contrast. Example: He works quickly but not well.

Or: Used to present an additional choice. Example: You can drink water or milk.

Yet: Used to introduce an idea contrary to the previous one (similar to "but"). Example: I took a book with me on my Tet holiday, yet I didn’t read a single page.

So: Used to talk about a result or the effect of an action/event mentioned previously. Example: I've been studying very hard for my final exams, so now I am not worried about it.

When conjunctions connect two independent clauses in a single sentence, a comma (,) must be added after the first clause before the conjunction (e.g., She loves playing golf, but her boyfriend hates it). If the conjunction connects two phrases (incomplete sentences) or words in a list, no comma is required (e.g., I do morning exercise every day to keep fit and relax). When listing three or more units, commas are used between the units; the comma before the final unit (Oxford comma) is optional (e.g., Many fruits are good for your eyes, such as carrot, watermelon, avocado (,) and tomato).

Correlative Conjunctions and Grammatical Rules

Correlative conjunctions connect two units and always appear in inseparable pairs to link phrases or clauses of equivalent grammatical function.

Either … or: Expresses a choice between one thing or another. Example: I want either a hamburger or a pizza. Note: In this structure, the verb agrees with the nearest subject.

Neither … nor: Expresses double negation: neither this nor that. Example: Mono loves neither me nor her. Note: In this structure, the verb agrees with the nearest subject.

Both … and: Expresses a double choice: both this and that. Example: Both I and my boyfriend like travelling. Note: In this structure, the verb is always plural because it agrees with the compound subject.

Not only … but also: Expresses a double choice: not only this but also that. Example: I like playing not only chess but also basketball. Note: In this structure, the verb agrees with the compound subject (both nouns).

Whether … or: Expresses doubt or an inquiry between two possibilities. Example: I haven’t decided whether to go abroad to study or stay at home.

As … as: Used for comparison of equality. Example: He is as handsome as his father.

Such … that / So … that: Expresses a cause-effect relationship (so… that…). Example: Jimin has such a good look that he can easily capture everyone’s attention.

Rather … than: Expresses preference for one thing over another. Example: She’d rather like money than whatever.

Hardly/Scarcely … when / No sooner … than: Expresses temporal relationship (as soon as/just as). Example: I had scarcely walked in the door when I got the call and had to run right to my office.

Subordinating Conjunctions and Categorized Groups

Subordinating conjunctions precede dependent clauses and link them to the main clause. The dependent clause can appear before or after the main clause but must begin with the subordinator. If the dependent clause comes first, it is usually separated by a comma.

Before / After: Indicates one event happening before or after another. Example: He watches TV after he finishes his work.

When Group (Time relationships): Includes when (khi), whenever (bất cứ khi nào), while (trong khi), as (khi), as soon as (ngay khi), after (sau đó), before (trước đó), until/till (cho tới khi), since (kể từ khi), by the time (kể từ lúc). Examples: When you visit Tokyo, send me a postcard; Before you leave the room, remember to turn off all the lights.

Because Group (Reason or Cause): Includes because, as, since, now (that), seeing (that/as) (bởi vì). Example: Because it was submitted late, the report was returned; Now/Seeing (that) it’s my boyfriend's money, I suppose that I can buy whatever I like.

If Group (Condition): Includes if (nếu), unless (trừ khi), in case (trong trường hợp), provided/providing that (miễn là), as long as (miễn là), lest (sợ rằng). Note: Verbs in a clause containing "lest" are in the base form. Examples: Unless my dad calls, I will leave right away; Khanh Vy checked carefully lest she made a mistake.

So … That Group (Result): Structures include:

• so + adj/adv + that + clause
• such + (a/an) + N (singular/plural) + that + clause Example: Thien An was so angry with Jack's attitude that she couldn't say anything; It was such a boring movie that I fell asleep.

That Group: Used to state a declaration, opinion, fact, or reason. Example: I know that she was innocent; It’s possible that she has received the gift.

Though Group (Contrast/Opposition): Includes though, although (mặc dù), even though, even if (thậm chí), while (trong khi). Other indicators include notwithstanding (mặc dù), whether…or not (cho dù), no matter what, whatever (bất cứ cái gì), whenever (bất cứ khi nào), whoever (bất cứ ai), or however + adj/adv. Example: Our parents always follow us wherever we go; However hard Bo studies, he is still stupid.

In Order That Group (Purpose): Includes in order that, so that, for fear that (để mà). Example: Send the letter express, in order that they’ll get it before Tuesday.

Classification of Linking Words by Logical Signalling

Adding Information: And (và), Also (cũng), Besides (ngoài ra), First, second, third (thứ nhất, thứ hai…), In addition (thêm vào đó), To begin with (bắt đầu với), Next (tiếp theo), Finally (cuối cùng), Furthermore (xa hơn nữa), Moreover (thêm vào đó).

Cause and Effect: Accordingly (theo như), And so (và vì thế), As a result (kết quả là), Then (sau đó), For the reason (vì lý do này), Hence/So/Therefore/Thus (vì vậy), Because/Because of (bởi vì), The reason for this is (lý do cho điều này là), The reason why (lý do tại sao), Due to/Owing to (do), The cause of … is (nguyên nhân của), To be caused by (được gây ra bởi), To be originated from (có nguồn gốc từ), To arise from (phát sinh từ), Leads to/Leading to (dẫn đến), Consequently/As a result/As a consequence (hậu quả là).

Comparison: By the same token (bằng những bằng chứng tương tự), In like manner (theo cách tương tự), Likewise/Similarly (tương tự thế), In the same way (theo cách giống như), In similar fashion (theo cách tương tự).

Opposition/Contrast: But/Yet (nhưng), However/Nevertheless (tuy nhiên), In contrast/On the contrary (đối lập với), Instead (thay vì), On the other hand (mặt khác), The reverse (ngược lại), Although/Even though (mặc dù), Otherwise (nếu không thì), Be different from/To differ from (khác với), In opposition (đối lập), While/Whereas (trong khi).

Conclusion/Summary: And so (vì thế), After all (sau tất cả), At last, finally (cuối cùng), In brief (nói chung), In closing (tóm lại), In conclusion (kết luận), On the whole (nói chung), To conclude (để kết luận), To summarize (tóm lại).

Examples: As an example (như một ví dụ), For example (ví dụ), For instance (kể đến một số ví dụ), Specifically (đặc biệt là), Thus (do đó), To illustrate (để minh họa).

Affirmation: In fact (thực tế là), Indeed (thật sự là), No (không), Yes (có), Especially (đặc biệt là).

Location/Place: Above (phía trên), Alongside (dọc), Beneath (dưới), Beyond (phía ngoài), Farther along (xa hơn dọc theo), Upon (phía trên), Under (phía dưới), In back (phía sau), In front (phía trước), Nearby (gần), On top of (trên đỉnh), To the left (phía trái), To the right (phía phải).

Repetition: In other words (nói cách khác), In short (tóm lại), In simpler terms (nói cách đơn giản hơn), To put it differently (nói khác đi), To repeat (để nhắc lại).

Time: Afterward (về sau), At the same time (cùng lúc), Currently (hiện tại), Earlier (sớm hơn), Later (muộn hơn), Formerly (trước đó), Immediately (lập tức), Until now (cho đến giờ), In the future (tương lai), In the meantime (trong khi chờ), In the past (quá khứ), Meanwhile (trong khi đó), Previously (trước đó), Simultaneously (đồng thời), Subsequently/Then (sau đó).

Practice Exercises on Prepositions and Conjunctions

Question 1: _____ the latest scientific research conducted by international experts, the new drug appears to be highly effective in treating the disease. A. On behalf of B. According to C. Thanks for D. In place of

Question 2: The outdoor event was unfortunately canceled _____ the extremely dangerous weather conditions in the area. A. Because of B. In spite of C. Regardless of D. Whereas

Question 3: He continued working on the difficult project _____ he was obviously exhausted after many hours without rest. A. Unless B. Although C. Whereas D. Owing to

Question 4: She was treated unfairly by several colleagues; __________, she remained calm and professional throughout the meeting. A. Nevertheless B. Rather than C. In case of D. Only if

Question 5: _____ his remarkable intelligence and excellent academic performance, he still failed the final examination unexpectedly. A. Contrary to B. Thanks to C. Despite D. With regard to

Question 6: _____ the extremely heavy snowfall throughout the night, the school remained open as usual the next morning. A. Instead of B. In spite of C. Because of D. In case of

Question 7: We arrived nearly two hours late at the conference center _____ the serious traffic jam during rush hour. A. Owing to B. Contrary to C. Unless D. Regardless of

Question 8: She is not only highly intelligent _____ extremely hardworking and responsible in every task she does. A. Moreover B. But also C. As well as D. Rather than

Question 9: _____ your impressive qualifications and previous work experience, we would like to offer you the position immediately. A. With regard to B. Instead of C. Unless D. In place of

Question 10: The company’s original decision was eventually reversed _____ the manager’s strong objection during the discussion. A. In addition to B. Regardless of C. As if D. So that

Question 11: The research team decided to continue the project _____ the serious lack of financial support from investors. A. As if B. Despite C. Because of D. In terms of

Question 12: You may borrow my car for the weekend _____ you return it before 5 PM on Sunday afternoon. A. Whereas B. Provided that C. Unless D. Contrary to

Question 13: _____ saving money on unnecessary expenses, we should also focus on improving product quality and customer satisfaction. A. In favor of B. In addition to C. Because of D. In case of

Question 14: The new government policy applies equally to all citizens _____ their age, gender, or educational background. A. Except for B. In spite of C. Regardless of D. Thanks to

Question 15: _____ the extremely loud noise coming from outside, the baby continued sleeping peacefully throughout the night. A. Contrary to B. Although C. Despite D. Whereas

Question 16: At the moment, I would honestly prefer drinking hot coffee _____ cold tea because the weather is freezing outside. A. Instead of B. Rather than/ to C. In view of D. In spite of

Question 17: _____ she comes from a very wealthy family, she still chooses to live a simple and modest lifestyle. A. Due to B. Although C. As a result of D. Because of

Question 18: She managed to remain calm and confident _____ the enormous pressure she was experiencing during the interview. A. Because B. Even though C. In spite of D. As long as

Question 19: _____ all of his efforts and countless hours of hard work, the problem still remained unsolved. A. On account of B. As well as C. In spite of D. Thanks to

Question 20: He surprisingly passed the difficult exam _____ not studying very much during the semester. A. Instead of B. Despite C. In view of D. Owing to

Question 21: _____ her reasonable request, we decided to adjust the meeting schedule for everyone’s convenience. A. According to B. In view of C. Thanks for D. Even though

Question 22: He behaved strangely during the reunion party _____ he had never met me before in his life. A. In addition B. So that C. As if D. Rather than

Question 23: _____ the sudden fire alarm in the building, everyone immediately evacuated the area safely. A. Thanks for B. In case of C. As long as D. Because of

Question 24: Before continuing the lengthy discussion about the project, let’s take a short break and relax for a few minutes. A. Before B. Regardless of C. Contrary to D. Rather than

Question 25: _____ your rude attitude and disrespectful behavior, I will no longer tolerate this situation anymore. A. As well as B. Because C. Because of D. In case of

Question 26: We are planning to go hiking in the mountains this weekend _____ it doesn’t rain heavily. A. Unless B. Whereas C. If only D. In case

Question 27: _____ bringing several extra sets of clothes for the trip, she also prepared enough food for everyone. A. Beside B. In addition to C. As a result of D. Although

Question 28: _____ she runs extremely fast and trains very hard every day, she still didn’t win the race yesterday. A. In spite of B. While C. Unless D. Thanks to

Question 29: _____ the detailed instructions provided by the technician, we still assembled the machine incorrectly. A. Because of B. Regardless of C. Contrary to D. Provided that

Question 30: _____ the serious financial risks involved, he still decided to invest a large amount of money in the startup company. A. Instead of B. In spite of C. In terms of D. Thanks to

Question 31: _____ suffering from several painful injuries, she still managed to complete the marathon successfully. A. Thanks for B. Despite C. Whereas D. In case of

Question 32: I will gladly help you with the project _____ you also do your part responsibly. A. In case B. Unless C. Provided that D. Despite

Question 33: _____ the recent software update released by the company, some users unfortunately lost important data on their devices. A. Because B. In addition C. Due to D. Only if

Question 34: _____ the terrible traffic congestion during rush hour, we still arrived at the airport surprisingly early. A. Despite B. In case of C. As long as D. Whereas

Question 35: _____ her promise that she would call me immediately after arriving home, she never contacted me at all. A. In spite of B. Because of C. With regard to D. Contrary to

Question 36: _____ the constant noise coming from the construction site nearby, he was still able to concentrate effectively on his work. A. Although B. Despite C. Because D. Unless

Question 37: _____ donating a large amount of money to charity, he also spent a great deal of time helping poor children. A. Only if B. So that C. As well as D. On account of

Question 38: He studied extremely hard for the final examination; nevertheless, he still received a surprisingly low score. A. Owing to B. Nevertheless C. Even though D. Regardless of

Question 39: _____ he tried extremely hard to repair the broken machine, he still couldn’t fix it completely. A. As long as B. Unless C. Although D. According to

Question 40: _____ their enormous size and frightening appearance, the animals were actually very gentle and harmless. A. Thanks to B. Due to C. Despite D. Contrary to

Question 41: _____ the long discussion that lasted for several hours, no final decision was made by the committee members. A. Despite B. With regard to C. According to D. Because of

Question 42: I will continue supporting you and respecting your decisions _____ your personal choices in life. A. Regardless of B. In view of C. Unless D. According to

Core Vocabulary: Technology and Science

1. science (n.) /ˈsaɪəns/: khoa học

2. scientific (adj.) /ˌsaɪənˈtɪfɪk/: (thuộc về) khoa học

3. technology (n.) /tekˈnɒlədʒi/: kĩ thuật, công nghệ

4. technological (adj.) /ˌteknəˈlɒdʒɪkl/: (thuộc về) công nghệ

5. technique (n.) /tekˈniːk/: kĩ thuật, thủ thuật

6. explore (v.) /ɪkˈsplɔː(r)/: khám phá, nghiên cứu

7. experiment (n./ v.) /ɪkˈsperɪmənt/: (cuộc) thí nghiệm, thí nghiệm

8. field (n.) /fiːld/: lĩnh vực

9. enormous (adj.) /ɪˈnɔːməs/: to lớn

10. benefit (n./ v.) /ˈbenɪfɪt/: lợi ích, hưởng lợi

11. invention (n.) /ɪnˈvenʃn)/: phát minh

12. invent (v.) /ɪnˈvent/: phát minh

13. light bulb (n.) /ˈlaɪt bʌlb/: bóng đèn

14. precision (n.) /prɪˈsɪʒn/: sự chính xác

15. precise (adj.) /prɪˈsaɪs/: chính xác

16. solve (v.) /sɒlv/: giải quyết

17. improve (v.) /ɪmˈpruːv/: cải thiện

18. renewable (adj.) /rɪˈnjuːəbl/: có thể tái tạo

19. discover (v.) /dɪˈskʌvə(r)/: khám phá, phát hiện ra

20. role (n.) /rəʊl/: vai trò

21. quality (n.) /ˈkwɒləti/: chất lượng

22. yield (n.) /jiːld/: sản lượng

23. become a reality (v.) /bɪˈkʌm ə riˈæləti/: trở thành hiện thực

Advanced Terminology and Thematic Phrases

Technophile: a person who is enthusiastic about new technology.

Technophobe: a person who fears or dislikes new technology.

Wireless hotspot: điểm phát wifi.

Online banking: ngân hàng online.

Computer buff: an expert in or enthusiast of computing.

Forward the message: chuyển tiếp tin nhắn.

Technological advance = technological developments: sự tiến bộ về mặt công nghệ.

Surf the Internet/web = browse websites: lướt mạng/web.

Back up your work: lưu trữ thông tin, tập tin.

Online shopping: mua sắm trực tuyến.

Cutting-edge: modern, leading-edge (hiện đại, tiên tiến).

Social networking site: mạng xã hội.

Have access to something: tiếp cận cái gì đó.

Computer age: thời đại máy tính.

Computer fatigue: tiredness caused by long use of computers.

To be stuck behind a computer: to spend long hours using a computer.

To boot up: to start up a computer.

To crash: to suddenly stop working (of a system/software).

To navigate a website: to find necessary information on a site.

Keep in contact with = keep in touch with: duy trì liên lạc.

Face-to-face meetings: meetings in person.

Online meetings = virtual meetings: meetings via internet.

Heavy exposure to something: too much contact with something.

Maintain face-to-face relationships: duy trì mối quan hệ trực tiếp.

Speed up the pace of something: tăng tốc độ của cái gì.

Informative and entertainment tool: công cụ thông tin và giải trí.

Breakdown in the system: hỏng hóc hệ thống.

Reading Application: The Impact of Science and Technology

In the modern world, Science and Technology play an extremely important role in human life. Over the past few decades, rapid technological advances have completely changed the way people work, study, communicate, and entertain themselves. From smartphones to artificial intelligence, many inventions that once seemed impossible have now become a reality. As a result, people can enjoy enormous benefits from modern scientific and technological developments.

First of all, science helps humans explore the mysteries of the universe and understand how the world works. Scientists constantly conduct experiments in different fields such as medicine, biology, physics, and environmental science. Through careful scientific research and precise techniques, they are able to discover new medicines, renewable energy sources, and advanced methods of production. For example, the invention of the light bulb by Thomas Edison completely transformed human civilization because people could work and study more effectively at night. Without science, many problems in society would remain unsolved.

In addition, technology has significantly improved the quality of life. Nowadays, people can surf the Internet, browse websites, and keep in touch with friends and relatives through social networking sites or online meetings. In the computer age, telecommunication services allow individuals from different countries to communicate instantly. Online banking and online shopping also save people a great deal of time and effort. Many technophiles believe that cutting-edge technological devices and applications make life more convenient and productive.

Technology also plays a major role in education and agriculture. Students now have access to enormous sources of information online, which helps them improve their knowledge and academic performance. Teachers can use technological tools to make lessons more interactive and informative. In agriculture, scientific techniques and modern machines help farmers increase crop yield and improve product quality. Renewable energy technologies such as solar panels and wind turbines are also becoming more popular because they help protect the environment and reduce pollution.

However, despite these advantages, there are still some negative effects of technology. Heavy exposure to computers and smartphones may cause computer fatigue and health problems. Many people are stuck behind a computer for too long and gradually lose face-to-face relationships. Furthermore, a breakdown in the system may cause severe problems for businesses and organizations. Some technophobes worry that humans are becoming too dependent on machines and technological devices.

In conclusion, science and technology have undergone enormous changes and continue to speed up the pace of modern life. Although there are some disadvantages, their benefits are undeniable. By using scientific knowledge wisely and developing technology responsibly, humans can solve global problems, improve living standards, and create a brighter future for the next generations.