Clauses / Conjunctions Definitions

Conjunction

A word used to connect words, phrases, or clauses together, also known as a 'joining word.'

Clause

A group of words containing a subject and a verb.

Independent Clause

A clause that has a subject, a verb, and expresses a complete thought; it can stand alone as a complete sentence.

Dependent Clause

A clause that has a subject and a verb but does not express a complete thought; it cannot be a sentence by itself.

Coordinating Conjunction

A conjunction used to join words, phrases, or independent clauses that are grammatically equal; remembered by the acronym FANBOYS.

For (F)

A coordinating conjunction that shows a reason or cause; it means 'because.'

And (A)

A coordinating conjunction that shows addition and connects similar ideas.

Nor (N)

A coordinating conjunction that joins two negative alternatives or ideas, used after a negative statement.

But (B)

A coordinating conjunction that shows a simple contrast or an opposite idea.

Or (O)

A coordinating conjunction that shows a choice or alternative.

Yet (Y)

A coordinating conjunction that connects a cause to a very unexpected, surprising result.

So (S)

A coordinating conjunction that shows a result, consequence, or effect.

Punctuation Rule 1

Do not use a comma when the coordinating conjunction connects single parts of speech or short phrases.

Punctuation Rule 2

Use a comma before the coordinating conjunction if it connects two separate, independent clauses.

FANBOYS

An acronym for the seven coordinating conjunctions: For, And, Nor, But, Or, Yet, So.

Subject (in a clause)

What the sentence is about.

Verb (in a clause)

The action or state of being in a clause.

Incomplete Thought

A thought that does not express a complete idea, often found in a dependent clause.

Connecting Words

Words that link phrases or clauses, commonly referred to as conjunctions.

Complete Thought

An idea that can stand alone as a full sentence, found in independent clauses.