8.175 using other conjunctions

You can also put 'but', 'yet', or 'or' between adjectives.

When you link contrasting adjectives, you put 'but' or 'yet' between them.

• ...a small but comfortable hotel.
• We are poor but happy.
• ...a firm yet gentle hand.

When you want to say that either of two adjectives could apply, or to ask which adjective applies, you use 'or'.

• You can use red or black paint.
• Call me if you feel lonely or depressed.
• Is this good or bad?

If you want to say that neither of two adjectives applies, you use 'or' in a negative sentence.

• He was not exciting or good-looking.

Another way of saying that neither of two adjectives applies is to put 'neither' in front of the first one and 'nor' in front of the second one.

• The Englishman was neither gratified nor displeased.
• The older men were careful to be neither too soft nor too loud in their reciting.