Understanding the intricacies of English grammar can be a daunting task, especially for language learners. One of the key components of constructing complex sentences in English is the use of subordinating conjunctions. These small but mighty words play a crucial role in connecting ideas and adding depth to our communication. In this article, we will explore what subordinating conjunctions are, how they function, and provide numerous examples to help you master their usage.
What Are Subordinating Conjunctions?
Subordinating conjunctions are words or phrases that connect a dependent clause (also known as a subordinate clause) to an independent clause. A dependent clause cannot stand alone as a complete sentence because it does not express a complete thought. It needs to be connected to an independent clause, which can stand alone as a complete sentence, to form a coherent statement.
Some common subordinating conjunctions include:
– After
– Although
– As
– Because
– Before
– Even if
– Even though
– If
– Once
– Since
– So that
– Than
– That
– Though
– Unless
– Until
– When
– Whenever
– Where
– Whereas
– Wherever
– Whether
– While
Function of Subordinating Conjunctions
Subordinating conjunctions serve several important functions in sentences. They can indicate time, cause and effect, condition, contrast, and purpose, among other relationships. Here, we’ll delve into some of these functions with examples.
Indicating Time
Subordinating conjunctions such as after, before, when, while, and until help indicate the timing of actions or events. For example:
– After: “We will go out for dinner after the movie ends.”
– Before: “He had finished his homework before he went to play.”
– When: “Call me when you arrive.”
– While: “She was reading a book while waiting for the bus.”
– Until: “You cannot leave the table until you finish your vegetables.”
Expressing Cause and Effect
Subordinating conjunctions like because, since, and so that are used to show a cause-and-effect relationship between two clauses. For example:
– Because: “She stayed home because she was feeling ill.”
– Since: “Since it was raining, the match was postponed.”
– So that: “He saved money so that he could buy a new car.”
Showing Condition
Conditional subordinating conjunctions such as if, unless, and provided that are used to indicate that one event depends on another. For example:
– If: “We will go to the beach if the weather is nice.”
– Unless: “You cannot attend the meeting unless you register in advance.”
– Provided that: “You can borrow my car provided that you return it by evening.”
Illustrating Contrast
Subordinating conjunctions like although, though, whereas, and even though are used to show contrast between two clauses. For example:
– Although: “Although he was tired, he continued working.”
– Though: “She decided to go for a walk though it was late.”
– Whereas: “He loves classical music, whereas his brother prefers rock.”
– Even though: “They went hiking even though it was snowing.”
Indicating Purpose
Subordinating conjunctions such as so that and in order that are used to express the purpose of an action. For example:
– So that: “She practiced daily so that she could improve her skills.”
– In order that: “He took extra classes in order that he might pass the exam.”
Position of Subordinating Conjunctions
Subordinating conjunctions can appear at the beginning or in the middle of a sentence. When the subordinating conjunction and its dependent clause come at the beginning of a sentence, a comma is usually placed after the dependent clause. For example:
– “Because it was raining, we decided to stay indoors.”
– “If you study hard, you will pass the exam.”
When the subordinating conjunction and its dependent clause come after the independent clause, no comma is generally needed. For example:
– “We decided to stay indoors because it was raining.”
– “You will pass the exam if you study hard.”
Combining Ideas Using Subordinating Conjunctions
Using subordinating conjunctions effectively allows you to combine ideas and create more complex and nuanced sentences. This not only improves your writing but also helps you convey your thoughts more precisely. Here are a few examples of how you can combine ideas using subordinating conjunctions:
1. Simple Sentences:
– “She was hungry.”
– “She ate a sandwich.”
2. Combined with a Subordinating Conjunction:
– “She ate a sandwich because she was hungry.”
1. Simple Sentences:
– “He finished his work.”
– “He went for a walk.”
2. Combined with a Subordinating Conjunction:
– “After he finished his work, he went for a walk.”
Common Mistakes with Subordinating Conjunctions
Even though subordinating conjunctions are relatively straightforward, there are common mistakes that learners often make. Being aware of these can help you avoid them in your writing and speaking.
Overusing Commas
Remember that when the subordinating conjunction comes in the middle of the sentence, you generally do not need a comma. For example:
– Incorrect: “She was late, because she missed the bus.”
– Correct: “She was late because she missed the bus.”
Using the Wrong Conjunction
Different subordinating conjunctions have different meanings and uses. Using the wrong one can change the meaning of your sentence. For example:
– Incorrect: “I will go out even though it stops raining.”
– Correct: “I will go out after it stops raining.”
Fragmented Sentences
A dependent clause cannot stand alone as a complete sentence. Ensure that your dependent clause is always connected to an independent clause. For example:
– Incorrect: “Although she was tired.”
– Correct: “Although she was tired, she finished her homework.”
Exercises for Practice
To solidify your understanding of subordinating conjunctions, try these exercises:
Exercise 1: Identify the Subordinating Conjunction
In each of the following sentences, identify the subordinating conjunction:
1. “She stayed home because she was feeling ill.”
2. “Call me when you arrive.”
3. “You cannot leave the table until you finish your vegetables.”
4. “Although he was tired, he continued working.”
5. “He saved money so that he could buy a new car.”
Exercise 2: Combine the Sentences
Combine each pair of sentences using the appropriate subordinating conjunction:
1. “He finished his homework. He went to play.”
2. “It was raining. The match was postponed.”
3. “She practiced daily. She could improve her skills.”
4. “You cannot attend the meeting. You register in advance.”
5. “He loves classical music. His brother prefers rock.”
Exercise 3: Correct the Mistakes
Correct the mistakes in the following sentences:
1. “She was late, because she missed the bus.”
2. “I will go out even though it stops raining.”
3. “Although she was tired. She finished her homework.”
Conclusion
Subordinating conjunctions are essential tools in the English language that help us connect ideas and create more complex and meaningful sentences. By understanding their functions and practicing their usage, you can enhance your writing and speaking skills, making your communication more effective and nuanced. Remember to pay attention to the placement of commas, choose the correct conjunction for the context, and ensure that your dependent clauses are always connected to independent clauses. Happy learning!
