What Is a Coordinating Conjunction?
A coordinating conjunction is a word that connects two equal parts of a sentence, such as two independent clauses, words, or phrases, to create a cohesive and balanced sentence structure.
What Are Coordinating Conjunctions?
Coordinating conjunctions connect words, phrases, or clauses of equal importance.
The seven coordinating conjunctions are for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so, often remembered by the acronym FANBOYS.
For: I need to study, for the exam is tomorrow.
And: She bought apples and oranges.
Nor: He didn’t call, nor did he text.
But: She is young but wise.
Or: Would you like tea or coffee?
Yet: It’s raining, yet we’re still going out.
So: He was tired, so he went to bed early.
The Functions of Coordinating Conjunctions
Coordinating conjunctions serve to connect different elements within a sentence.
Connecting words
Cats and dogs are popular pets.
You can have tea or coffee.
Connecting phrases
We can go hiking in the mountains or walking by the lake.
She enjoys reading books and watching movies.
Connecting independent clauses
I wanted to go for a walk, but it started to rain.
He was feeling hungry, so he made a sandwich.
Rules for Using Coordinating Conjunctions
When using coordinating conjunctions, it's important to follow punctuation rules and avoid common mistakes.
Proper punctuation
Use a comma before the conjunction when connecting two independent clauses.
Example: I wanted to join the meeting, but I was late.
Common mistakes to avoid
Incorrect: She likes pizza but, hates burgers.
Correct: She likes pizza, but hates burgers.
Examples of correct and incorrect usage
Correct: He enjoys swimming, and she loves running.
Incorrect: He enjoys swimming and, she loves running.
Coordinating Conjunctions in Complex Sentences
Using coordinating conjunctions in complex sentences enhances clarity and flow.
Combining multiple conjunctions
You can have ice cream or cake, but not both.
He didn’t know whether to laugh or cry, yet he managed to stay calm.
Clarity and flow
Good: She was tired but happy, for she had completed her project.
Bad: She was tired but happy for, she had completed her project.
Exercises:
Combine the sentences: The sky is clear. It might rain.
Solution: The sky is clear, yet it might rain.
Practical Tips for Mastering Coordinating Conjunctions
To master coordinating conjunctions, follow these tips and practice regularly.
Remembering FANBOYS
Create a mnemonic or acronym to help you recall the conjunctions.
Example: F-for, A-and, N-nor, B-but, O-or, Y-yet, S-so.
Practice exercises
Combine the following pairs of sentences using coordinating conjunctions:
I want to go out. It is raining.
He is talented. He is humble.