Asyndetic coordination

Asyndetic coordination involves refers to the coordination of words, phrases, or clauses in a sentence without the use of a coordinating conjunction (such as and, but, or, etc.). Asyndetic coordination relies on the natural flow of the language to connect and organise the components of a sentence.

Examples

Asyndetic coordination is often employed to convey a sense of immediacy or to establish a faster pace in writing. Here are a few examples:

• She enjoyed reading books, watching movies.
• He spoke passionately, gestured emphatically.
• The storm raged outside, the wind howling through the trees.
• They danced under the moonlight, laughed without a care.

Examples from literature

It was the best of times, it was the worst of times, it was the age of wisdom, it was the age of foolishness, it was the epoch of belief, it was the epoch of incredulity, it was the season of Light, it was the season of Darkness, it was the spring of hope, it was the winter of despair. (Charles Dickens, A Tale of Two Cities).

Effects

The use of asyndetic coordination can impact the overall tone and rhythm of a sentence. Its absence of conjunctions can create a straightforward and dynamic feel, adding a sense of urgency or importance to the narrative.