Coordinating Conjunctions: The Connectors of Sentences
Coordinating conjunctions are like the glue that holds sentences together. They join words, phrases, and clauses of equal grammatical rank (meaning they have the same structure and function). Think of them as little bridges connecting two ideas.
The FANBOYS:
There are seven coordinating conjunctions, often remembered by the acronym FANBOYS:
* For
* And
* Nor
* But
* Or
* Yet
* So
How they work:
* For: Shows a reason or cause.
* And: Shows addition or continuation.
* Nor: Shows an additional negative.
* But: Shows contrast or opposition.
* Or: Shows an alternative.
* Yet: Shows a contrasting idea that still stands.
* So: Shows a result or consequence.
Examples:
* For: The weather was terrible, for it was raining heavily.
* And: I went to the store and bought some milk.
* Nor: He did not eat the cake, nor did he drink the soda.
* But: I wanted to go to the park, but it was closed.
* Or: Do you want to eat pizza or tacos?
* Yet: He studied hard, yet he failed the test.
* So: She was tired, so she went to bed.
Important Notes:
* Use a comma before a coordinating conjunction when joining two independent clauses (complete sentences).
* Coordinating conjunctions can also be used to join words or phrases.
* Don't use a comma after a coordinating conjunction.
Understanding coordinating conjunctions is essential for building clear and grammatically correct sentences. They add variety and complexity to your writing while making your meaning clear.