FANBOYS in linking two or more language structures in English language

Abstract

The problem of linking two or more language structures in English by using single words that will be discussed in this paper seems simple at first, particularly from the theoretical point of view. However, in practice, when meaning is the most important, a lot of different situations and issues may occur. The basic aim of this paper is to provide a brief overview of FANBOYS (the seven conjunctions: for, and, nor, but, or, yet, and so), as these are the linkers of language structures such as words, phrases and sentences conveying different ideas. Their identification, classification and grammatical characteristics will be mentioned in the paper to provide a better understanding of their role in the English language. The paper will also analyze them in a selected text in order to discuss different situations and possible issues. According to their structures, linkers can be divided into single, complex and compound words; some other members of the word classes (prepositions, adverbs) depending on the meaning to be expressed, can serve as those structures as well. FANBOYS belong to the closed class items because they can be counted, they exclude each other, and they do not express the basic meaning in language. They usually express their meaning when they appear in the text. That is why the analysis of the text in the paper would be important for English language learners, particularly as they are play the role of conveying the exact meaning between the speaker and the listener and vice versa. The findings of this paper could be used to improve English speaking and writing skills, as coherence and cohesion are vital for the smooth flow of language structures and the ideas they convey.