Intermediate English Grammar for ESL Learners - Robin Torres-Gouzerh 2016

Coordinating conjunctions
18 Conjunctions

Conjunctions connect words, phrases, and clauses. But not all conjunctions function in the same way. This unit describes the types of English conjunctions and how they are used in sentences.

Coordinating conjunctions

Coordinating conjunctions connect words or groups of words of the same grammatical type, such as verbs, nouns, and adjectives, or of the same grammatical structure, such as phrases and clauses. These are the coordinating conjunctions: and, but, or, yet, for, so, and nor.

If a coordinating conjunction connects more than two elements, it is generally placed between the last two elements of the series. The other elements are separated by commas.

In order to find the treasure, you will need a compass, a shovel, a map, and a lamp.

He wanted to buy a hat, a pair of gloves, or some new boots.

Coordinating conjunctions can also connect other elements, such as infinitives and infinitive phrases.

She wants to watch a movie or (to) listen to music.

It’s difficult to listen to him and to know that he is lying.

If a coordinating conjunction connects independent clauses, the conjunction is usually preceded by a comma. An independent clause is one that can stand by itself and make complete sense. If a coordinating conjunction connects independent clauses, it creates a compound sentence.

She spoke to him harshly, but there was real pity for him in her heart. Tom was exhausted, yet he found enough strength to lead them out of the woods.

If the subject, verb, or auxiliary is the same in both clauses, the one in the second clause can be omitted. When this occurs, the comma can be omitted.

He spoke slowly but [he] pronounced each word in anger.

The men worked on the house and [worked] on the shed in the backyard.

Someone is knocking at the door and [is] calling your name.