Coordinating Conjunctions
These conjunctions connect words, phrases, or independent clauses that are grammatically equal. Remember the acronym FANBOYS: For, And, Nor, But, Or, Yet, So.
For
Explains reason or purpose (similar to “because”).
Example: I was tired, for I had not slept well.
Example: I was tired, for I had not slept well.
And
Adds one thing to another.
Example: She bought apples and oranges.
Example: She bought apples and oranges.
Nor
Presents a non-contrasting negative idea.
Example: He didn’t call, nor did he text.
Example: He didn’t call, nor did he text.
But
Shows contrast or exception.
Example: I like tea, but I prefer coffee.
Example: I like tea, but I prefer coffee.
Or
Shows a choice or alternative.
Example: Would you like tea or coffee?
Example: Would you like tea or coffee?
Yet
Shows contrast, like “but”.
Example: It was raining, yet we went out.
Example: It was raining, yet we went out.
So
Shows result or consequence.
Example: I was hungry, so I made a sandwich.
Example: I was hungry, so I made a sandwich.