Coordinating Conjunctions

Coordinating conjunctions are words that connect words, phrases, or clauses that are similar or equal in structure. The most common coordinating conjunctions are for, and, nor, but, or, yet, and so (FANBOYS).

The FANBOYS coordinating conjunctions are: For, And, Nor, But, Or, Yet, So.

The conjunction 'and' is used to connect two similar ideas or items, indicating addition.

The conjunction 'but' is used to connect two contrasting ideas or items.

The conjunction 'or' is used to present an alternative or choice between two ideas or items.

The conjunction 'so' is used to indicate a result or consequence of the preceding clause.

The conjunction 'yet' is used to introduce a contrast or an unexpected outcome.

Example: She does not like coffee, nor does she enjoy tea.

When connecting two independent clauses with a coordinating conjunction, use a comma before the conjunction.

Coordinating conjunctions connect equal parts of a sentence, while subordinating conjunctions connect a dependent clause to an independent clause.