Compound Sentences

Joining Ideas with Coordinating Conjunctions

Sections
Introduction

1. Definition & Core Meaning

A compound sentence joins two independent clauses (complete sentences) using a coordinating conjunction.

The FANBOYS:

  • For (reason)
  • And (addition)
  • Nor (negative addition)
  • But (contrast)
  • Or (choice)
  • Yet (contrast/surprise)
  • So (result)

Structure:
[Independent Clause] + , + [FANBOYS] + [Independent Clause]

What is it?
Joining Ideas with Coordinating Conjunctions

2. Use Cases

  1. Adding Information: "I like eggs, and I like toast."
  2. Showing Contrast: "I wanted the car, but it was too expensive."
  3. Offering Choices: "You can stay here, or you can come with us."
  4. Showing Results: "It was late, so we went to sleep."

3. When to Use It (Time Expressions/Signals)

  • FANBOYS: Use when linking two equally important ideas.
  • Connectors: Preferred when you want to avoid ending too many short sentences.

[!NOTE]
Review the examples and rules closely to understand the context.

4. How to Use It (Rules)

  • Use a comma before the conjunction
  • Both sides must be complete sentences
  • Choose the right conjunction for the meaning