You may or may not know, but there are 3 types of conjunctions. First on the conjunction list is FANBOYS (coordinating) conjunctions. This type of conjunction connects words, phrases, and clauses that are of equal importance. There are seven conjunctions for you to remember and they can easily be remembered by learning the acronym ‘FANBOYS’,
Take a look at the picture below to see what FANBOYS stands for.
function and examples of coordinating conjunctions
Each coordinating conjunction serves a purpose and some are more commonly used than others. Let’s have a look at their functions:
- For – reason or purpose
- And – add one thing to another
- Nor – add a negative idea to another negative idea
- But – contrast
- Or – alternative
- Yet – contrast
- So – result or consequence
coordinating conjunctions examples
Let’s take a look at some examples of FANBOYS conjunctions with pictures.
FANBOYS comma rules in grammar
When using a coordinating conjunction, you are joining various words, phrases, and clauses. This can sometimes mean using a comma. The good news is that there are a set of grammar rules we can follow which tells us if we need a comma or not.
They are important when writing. If you want to learn more about comma rules and other punctuation marks click here.
So, you now know how to spot a coordinating conjunction. Believe it of not, these are in fact the easiest of the three. The other two are a little more difficult. When you’re ready, move on to the next conjunction.
