Question

Combine the sentences using a suitable cumulative conjunction:
John is a doctor. His wife is a doctor. [Advanced]

• A. John or his wife is a doctor.
• B. Both John and his wife is doctor.
• C. Both John and his wife are doctors.
• D. John is a doctor but his wife is a doctor.

Answer 1

Answer: (C)

Both John and his wife are doctors.

Cumulative conjunctions are used for merely adding one statement to another.
Option C is correct: "Both... and" simply add together these two sentences and lay equal emphasis on facts stated in the two statements.
Option A: "Or" offers choice between two statements. Hence, "or" is not an example of cumulative conjunction.
Option B is incorrect: "John and his wife" are two subjects in the sentence, hence, "are" should be used with them.
Option D is incorrect: "But" shows contrast between the two statement while joining them. Hence, it is not an example of cumulative conjunction.