Clauses; Semicolons/Commas; FANBOYS

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What is a clause?

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A clause is a group of words that contains a subject and a verb. It can be independent (able to stand alone) or dependent (cannot stand alone).

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What is an independent clause?

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An independent clause is a clause that can stand alone as a complete sentence. It expresses a complete thought.

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What is a dependent clause?

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A dependent clause is a clause that cannot stand alone as a complete sentence. It does not express a complete thought.

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What is a semicolon?

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A semicolon (;) is a punctuation mark used to connect closely related independent clauses or to separate items in a complex list.

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What is a comma?

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A comma (,) is a punctuation mark used to indicate a pause between parts of a sentence or to separate items in a list.

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What does FANBOYS stand for?

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FANBOYS is an acronym for the coordinating conjunctions: For, And, Nor, But, Or, Yet, So.

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How do you use a semicolon in a sentence?

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A semicolon is used to connect two independent clauses that are closely related. Example: 'I have a big test tomorrow; I can't go out tonight.'

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How do you use a comma before a conjunction?

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A comma is used before a coordinating conjunction (FANBOYS) when it connects two independent clauses. Example: 'I wanted to go for a walk, but it started to rain.'

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What is the purpose of a conjunction?

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A conjunction is a word that connects clauses or sentences or coordinates words in the same clause.

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What is an example of an independent clause?

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An example of an independent clause is: 'She enjoys reading books.' It can stand alone as a complete sentence.