Coordinating Conjunctions (FANBOYS)

Of all the types of conjunctions, Coordinating Conjunctions are the ones we encounter most often and are the easiest to use.

The main function of this conjunction is to connect two elements that are grammatically equal. “Equal” here means:

  • Connecting a noun with a noun (apple and orange)
  • Connecting an adjective with an adjective (smart but lazy)
  • Connecting an independent clause with an independent clause (I want to go, but it is raining)

Memorizing FANBOYS

There are only 7 Coordinating Conjunctions in English. To make it easier to memorize them, we use the acronym FANBOYS:

  1. For
  2. And
  3. Nor
  4. But
  5. Or
  6. Yet
  7. So

Let’s discuss the usage of each word:

1. For (Because / Reason)

Shows a reason or cause. Its meaning is similar to because, but for is very rarely used in everyday conversation and is more often found in literature or formal writing.

  • I drank some water, for I was thirsty.

2. And (Addition)

Used to add information, things, or ideas that are in agreement/parallel. This is the most frequently used conjunction.

  • My favorite colors are blue and green.
  • He opened the door and walked inside.

3. Nor (Addition of Negatives)

Used to add negative information to already existing negative information. It is usually preceded by a negative sentence with the word not or neither. If using nor, the following sentence structure is often inverted (Verb + Subject).

  • I do not like tea, nor do I like coffee.

4. But (Contrast)

Used to show contrast or opposition between two ideas.

  • She is very smart, but she is lazy.
  • I want to buy the shoes, but I don’t have money.

5. Or (Choice)

Used to provide a choice or alternative.

  • Do you want tea or coffee?
  • We can go to the beach, or we can stay home.

6. Yet (Contrast / Surprise)

Its meaning is very similar to but, which is to show contrast. The difference is, yet usually gives a more surprising or unexpected impression.

  • The weather was cold, yet he was sweating. (Something contradictory).

7. So (Result)

Shows the result or consequence of an action.

  • It was raining hard, so I stayed home.
  • I am tired, so I will go to sleep.

Comma Rules (Important!)

When should we use a comma before FANBOYS? The rule is very simple:

Use a comma IF: The conjunction connects two independent clauses (sentences that have their own Subject and Verb).

  • I like apples, and she likes oranges. (There is a comma, because I like apples and she likes oranges are two complete sentences).

NO comma needed IF: The conjunction only connects two words (like two nouns or two verbs).

  • I like apples and oranges. (No comma, because it only connects the words apples and oranges).