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Grammar_Conjunctions_Coordinating.pageTitle

Coordinating conjunctions are the glue of the French language, allowing you to connect words, phrases, or independent clauses of equal importance. Master these to move beyond simple sentences and start speaking with fluid, natural logic. Practice this with PrepMyFrench exercises to perfect your flow!

The Golden Mnemonic

To remember the most common coordinating conjunctions, memorize this phrase: "Mais où est donc Ornicar ?" (But where is Ornicar?). It sounds like a strange question, but it contains mais, ou, et, donc, or, ni, car—the seven pillars of French coordination.

The Seven Masters of Coordination

mais

Opposition

Used to express contrast

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ou

Choice

Used to present alternatives

Grammar_Conjunctions_Coordinating.exChoice

et

Addition

Used to add information

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donc

Consequence

Used to show a result

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or

Transition

Used to introduce a new fact that changes the perspective

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ni

Exclusion

Used for double negatives

Grammar_Conjunctions_Coordinating.exExclusion

car

Cause

Used to explain the reason (similar to 'because')

Grammar_Conjunctions_Coordinating.exCause

Pro Tip: Punctuation Power

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Logic Check

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The 'Ni' Danger Zone

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