What is FANBOYS?
FANBOYS is a mnemonic (memory trick) for the 7 coordinating conjunctions in English. They join two independent clauses (= complete sentences) together. When joining two full clauses, put a comma before the conjunction.
I was tired, but I finished the homework.
She likes coffee, and her sister likes tea.
ForAndNorButOrYetSo
The 7 conjunctions
| Word | Meaning | Example |
|---|---|---|
| FOR | reason (formal "because") | She left early, for she was feeling ill. |
| AND | addition | I like pizza, and she likes pasta. |
| NOR | negative addition (not… either) | He doesn't smoke, nor does he drink. |
| BUT | contrast | I'm tired, but I can't sleep. |
| OR | alternative | You can walk, or you can take the bus. |
| YET | surprising contrast (formal "but") | It's a small car, yet it is very comfortable. |
| SO | result / consequence | It was raining, so I took an umbrella. |
Comma rule:
Use a comma before FANBOYS when joining two full sentences: "I was hungry, so I made a sandwich." But no comma when joining two verbs/nouns: "I ate dinner and watched TV."
Exercises
Choose the best connector.
1. I studied all night, ___ I failed the exam.
2. Hurry up, ___ you'll miss the train.
3. The café was closed, ___ we went to a restaurant.
4. I don't like fish, ___ does my brother.