Understanding the role of conjunctions in complex sentences is crucial for anyone looking to improve their English language skills. Conjunctions serve as the glue that holds together the different parts of a sentence, making our communication more coherent and nuanced. In this article, we will explore common conjunctions used in complex sentences, their functions, and how you can effectively incorporate them into your writing and speech.
What Are Conjunctions?
Conjunctions are words that connect phrases, clauses, or sentences. They are essential in creating complex sentences, which consist of an independent clause and one or more dependent clauses. Without conjunctions, our sentences would be short, choppy, and lacking in depth.
There are three main types of conjunctions: coordinating, subordinating, and correlative. However, for the purpose of this article, we will focus primarily on subordinating conjunctions, as they are the ones most commonly used in complex sentences.
Subordinating Conjunctions
Subordinating conjunctions are used to join an independent clause with a dependent clause. The dependent clause cannot stand alone as a complete sentence and relies on the main clause to provide context and meaning. Some common subordinating conjunctions include:
– although
– because
– since
– unless
– while
– when
– if
– as
Let’s delve deeper into these conjunctions and see how they function in complex sentences.
Although
The conjunction although is used to introduce a contrast or exception. It shows that something happens despite another condition or circumstance.
Example:
– Although it was raining, we decided to go for a hike.
In this sentence, “Although it was raining” is the dependent clause, and “we decided to go for a hike” is the independent clause. The use of “although” highlights the contrast between the weather condition and the decision to hike.
Because
Because is used to show cause and effect. It explains the reason behind an action or event.
Example:
– She didn’t attend the meeting because she was feeling ill.
Here, “because she was feeling ill” is the dependent clause that explains why “she didn’t attend the meeting.”
Since
Since can be used to indicate time or causation. When used to show causation, it is similar to “because.”
Example (causation):
– Since you didn’t finish your homework, you can’t watch TV.
In this example, “Since you didn’t finish your homework” is the reason for the result stated in the independent clause, “you can’t watch TV.”
Example (time):
– I haven’t seen her since she moved to New York.
In this case, “since she moved to New York” indicates the time frame for the action in the independent clause, “I haven’t seen her.”
Unless
Unless introduces a condition that must be met for something else to happen. It is often used to set limitations or exceptions.
Example:
– You won’t pass the exam unless you study hard.
Here, “unless you study hard” is the condition that affects the outcome of “You won’t pass the exam.”
While
While can indicate two simultaneous actions or introduce a contrast. Its meaning depends on the context in which it is used.
Example (simultaneous actions):
– She was reading a book while he was cooking dinner.
In this sentence, “while he was cooking dinner” is the dependent clause that indicates what was happening at the same time as the action in the independent clause, “She was reading a book.”
Example (contrast):
– While I like coffee, my sister prefers tea.
Here, “While I like coffee” introduces a contrast with the independent clause, “my sister prefers tea.”
When
When is used to indicate the time at which something happens. It connects the timing of one event with another.
Example:
– Call me when you arrive.
In this sentence, “when you arrive” is the dependent clause that specifies the timing for the action in the independent clause, “Call me.”
If
If introduces a condition that must be met for something else to occur. It is commonly used in conditional sentences.
Example:
– If it rains, we will cancel the picnic.
Here, “If it rains” is the condition that determines the outcome stated in the independent clause, “we will cancel the picnic.”
As
As can be used to indicate time, cause, or manner, depending on the context.
Example (time):
– As she was leaving, he arrived.
In this sentence, “As she was leaving” indicates the timing of the action in the independent clause, “he arrived.”
Example (cause):
– As it was getting late, we decided to go home.
Here, “As it was getting late” provides the reason for the action in the independent clause, “we decided to go home.”
Example (manner):
– He did it exactly as I told him.
In this case, “as I told him” describes the manner in which the action in the independent clause, “He did it,” was performed.
Combining Multiple Conjunctions
In complex sentences, it is not uncommon to see multiple subordinating conjunctions used to convey more intricate relationships between ideas. When combining multiple conjunctions, it is essential to ensure that each clause remains clear and that the overall sentence structure is not overly complicated.
Example:
– Although she was tired because she had worked all day, she still went to the gym.
In this sentence, “Although she was tired” introduces a contrast, while “because she had worked all day” provides the reason for her tiredness. The independent clause, “she still went to the gym,” completes the thought and highlights her determination.
Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them
Using conjunctions in complex sentences can sometimes lead to common mistakes. Here are a few pitfalls to watch out for and tips on how to avoid them:
Misplaced Conjunctions
One common mistake is placing the conjunction in the wrong part of the sentence, which can lead to confusion or a change in meaning.
Incorrect:
– She was happy because, she got a promotion.
Correct:
– She was happy because she got a promotion.
In the incorrect example, the misplaced comma makes the sentence awkward and unclear. The correct version flows more naturally and clearly communicates the cause and effect relationship.
Run-On Sentences
Another common issue is creating run-on sentences by stringing together too many clauses without proper punctuation or conjunctions.
Incorrect:
– I was hungry I ate a sandwich then I felt better.
Correct:
– I was hungry, so I ate a sandwich, and then I felt better.
In the correct version, the conjunctions “so” and “and” are used to appropriately connect the clauses, and commas are added to improve readability.
Fragmented Sentences
On the flip side, sometimes dependent clauses are left hanging without an independent clause, resulting in sentence fragments.
Incorrect:
– Because he was late. We missed the train.
Correct:
– Because he was late, we missed the train.
In the correct version, the dependent clause “Because he was late” is properly connected to the independent clause “we missed the train” to form a complete sentence.
Practical Exercises to Master Conjunctions
To become proficient in using conjunctions in complex sentences, practice is key. Here are some exercises to help you master their use:
Exercise 1: Identifying Conjunctions
Read the following sentences and underline the subordinating conjunctions:
1. Although it was cold, they went for a swim.
2. She stayed home because she was not feeling well.
3. We will start the meeting when everyone arrives.
4. If you need help, just let me know.
5. He couldn’t come to the party since he had a prior commitment.
Exercise 2: Combining Sentences
Combine the following pairs of sentences using an appropriate subordinating conjunction:
1. She was tired. She continued working.
2. It started to rain. We went inside.
3. He studied hard. He wanted to pass the exam.
4. I will call you. I get home.
5. She loves to read. She finds it relaxing.
Exercise 3: Correcting Mistakes
Identify and correct the errors in the following sentences:
1. Unless you don’t hurry, you will miss the bus.
2. I didn’t go to the party because. I was too tired.
3. She was late, she missed the bus.
4. When he arrived. Everyone was already there.
5. Although it was raining, but we decided to go for a walk.
Conclusion
Understanding and using conjunctions effectively is a fundamental skill for constructing complex sentences in English. By mastering common subordinating conjunctions like “although,” “because,” “since,” “unless,” “while,” “when,” “if,” and “as,” you can create more nuanced and coherent sentences. Remember to practice regularly, watch out for common pitfalls, and apply what you’ve learned in your writing and speech. With time and practice, you’ll find that using conjunctions becomes second nature, enhancing your overall communication skills.
