Coordinating Conjunctions

Use and to add one idea to another. It joins similar types of elements and shows that both things are true or both actions happen.

Use but to show contrast or an unexpected difference between two ideas. It joins clauses that oppose each other in some way.

Use or to present a choice or alternative between two or more possibilities. It can join single words, phrases, or whole clauses.

Use so to show a cause-and-effect relationship where the second idea is a result of the first. It connects an action or situation to its consequence.

Use nor to continue a negative idea and add another negative option. It often follows neither or another negative element and joins two negative alternatives.

Use for to explain a reason or cause. It is more formal than because and connects an effect to its cause when placed between two main clauses.

Use yet to introduce a contrast that is unexpected or shows a surprising twist. It functions like but but often signals a sharper or more significant contrast.

Coordinating conjunctions—and, but, or, so, nor, for, and yet—link equal elements and signal relationships like addition, contrast, choice, cause, and more. Practice using each one in sentences to make your writing clear and coherent.