Coordinating Conjunctions
Coordinating conjunctions connect words, phrases, or independent clauses that are roughly equal in importance.
The FANBOYS Acronym
You can remember the seven coordinating conjunctions using the acronym FANBOYS:
- For: Explains reason (I drank some water, for I was thirsty.)
- And: Adds things together (I like apples and bananas.)
- Nor: Presents a second negative idea (She won't leave, nor will she speak.)
- But: Shows contrast (I wanted to go, but it was raining.)
- Or: Presents an alternative (We can eat now or later.)
- Yet: Shows surprise or contrast (He was tired, yet he kept running.)
- So: Shows consequence (I was sick, so I stayed home.)