Grammar basics
Coordinating conjunctions
A coordinating conjunction joins two equal parts: two words, two phrases or two sentences. There are only seven, and you can remember them with FANBOYS.
FANBOYS
| Letter | Conjunction | Use it to… |
|---|---|---|
| F | for | give a reason (formal) |
| A | and | add more |
| N | nor | add another negative |
| B | but | show a difference |
| O | or | give a choice |
| Y | yet | show a surprise |
| S | so | show a result |
When to use a comma
Use a comma before the conjunction when it joins two full sentences. Don't use a comma when it joins two words.
- I was tired, but I finished my code. (two sentences)
- I like tea and coffee. (two words)
Learn these first
In everyday English, and, but, or and so are the most common. For and nor sound formal. You will see them in books more than you hear them in conversation.
For
Gives a reason. It sounds formal. In speaking, people say because.
I went to bed early, for I was very tired.
And
Adds one more thing or idea.
I love coding and teaching.
Nor
Adds another negative idea. After nor, the verb comes before the subject.
She doesn't eat meat, nor does she eat fish.
But
Shows a difference between two ideas.
The app is small, but it is very useful.
Or
Gives a choice.
Do you want coffee or tea?
Yet
Like but, for a result that is surprising.
The test was hard, yet I passed it.
So
Shows a result.
It was raining, so I stayed home.