What type of conjunction connects two or more parts of a sentence that are of equal rank?

A conjunction that connects two or more parts of a sentence that are of equal rank is known as a coordinating conjunction. These conjunctions are used to link words, phrases, or clauses that are grammatically similar, creating a balance in the sentence. For example, coordinating conjunctions like "and," "but," and "or" can join two independent clauses, allowing them to function together as a single cohesive statement.

In a sentence structured with coordinating conjunctions, every part it connects is on an equal grammatical level, meaning each component can stand alone as an individual unit if needed. This is essential for maintaining clarity and emphasis in writing, which is why knowing how to use them correctly is fundamental in sentence construction.

Subordinating conjunctions, on the other hand, connect a dependent clause to an independent clause, creating a hierarchy rather than a balance. Correlative conjunctions are pairs that work together to coordinate equal sentence elements but are not singularly responsible for connecting them in the same way as coordinating conjunctions. "Dependent" is not a type of conjunction and instead refers to clauses that cannot stand alone.

Thus, recognizing the function of coordinating conjunctions is crucial for understanding how to construct sentences that hold equal importance among their parts.