When learning a new language, understanding the structure and function of sentences is crucial. One key element that often confuses learners is the use of subordinating conjunctions. These small but mighty words can significantly impact the meaning and flow of sentences, making them an essential part of language mastery. In this article, we’ll dive deep into subordinating conjunctions, exploring their roles, types, and how to use them effectively.
What Are Subordinating Conjunctions?
Subordinating conjunctions are words that join an independent clause (a complete sentence) with a dependent clause (a group of words that cannot stand alone as a complete sentence). The role of these conjunctions is to show the relationship between the two clauses, such as cause and effect, time, condition, contrast, or purpose.
Examples of subordinating conjunctions include words like because, although, since, if, and when. For instance, in the sentence “I went to the store because we needed milk,” the word because links the dependent clause “we needed milk” to the independent clause “I went to the store,” explaining the reason for the action.
Types of Subordinating Conjunctions
Subordinating conjunctions can be categorized based on the relationship they establish between the clauses. Here are some common types:
1. Cause and Effect
These conjunctions explain why something happens. Common cause and effect subordinating conjunctions include:
– Because: “She stayed home because she was feeling sick.”
– Since: “Since it was raining, the match was postponed.”
– As: “He left early as he had another appointment.”
2. Time
These conjunctions indicate when something happens in relation to something else. Examples include:
– When: “When the bell rings, the students leave the classroom.”
– While: “She read a book while waiting for her friend.”
– Before: “Finish your homework before you go out to play.”
– After: “We will eat after the meeting.”
3. Condition
These conjunctions show the conditions under which something will happen. Examples include:
– If: “I’ll call you if I have time.”
– Unless: “You can’t go out unless you finish your chores.”
– Provided: “You can borrow my car provided you return it by 6 PM.”
4. Contrast
These conjunctions highlight contrasting ideas or exceptions. Examples include:
– Although: “Although it was cold, we went for a hike.”
– Even though: “Even though she was tired, she finished her work.”
– Whereas: “He prefers tea, whereas she likes coffee.”
5. Purpose
These conjunctions express the purpose of an action. Examples include:
– So that: “She saved money so that she could buy a new car.”
– In order that: “He studied hard in order that he might pass the exam.”
How to Use Subordinating Conjunctions
Using subordinating conjunctions correctly involves a few basic rules. Here are some guidelines to help you:
1. Placement of Clauses
Subordinating conjunctions can be placed at the beginning or in the middle of a sentence. When the dependent clause comes first, it’s usually followed by a comma. For example:
– “Because it was raining, we stayed indoors.”
– “We stayed indoors because it was raining.”
Both sentences are correct, but the placement of the comma changes.
2. Subject-Verb Agreement
Ensure that the subject and verb in the dependent clause agree. For example:
– “If he goes to the store, he will buy milk.”
– “If they go to the store, they will buy milk.”
Notice how the verb changes to match the subject.
3. Clarity and Conciseness
Use subordinating conjunctions to make your writing clear and concise. Avoid overusing them, as too many can make sentences cumbersome and difficult to read. For instance:
– Wordy: “We stayed indoors because it was raining, and because we had no umbrellas.”
– Concise: “We stayed indoors because it was raining and we had no umbrellas.”
Common Mistakes with Subordinating Conjunctions
Despite their simplicity, subordinating conjunctions can be tricky. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:
1. Fragment Sentences
A dependent clause can’t stand alone as a complete sentence. For example:
– Incorrect: “Although it was raining.”
– Correct: “Although it was raining, we went for a walk.”
2. Misplaced Commas
When the dependent clause comes first, a comma should follow it. When it comes second, no comma is needed. For example:
– Incorrect: “We went for a walk, although it was raining.”
– Correct: “We went for a walk although it was raining.”
3. Inconsistent Verb Tenses
Ensure that the verb tenses in both clauses are consistent. For example:
– Incorrect: “When he arrived, she is cooking dinner.”
– Correct: “When he arrived, she was cooking dinner.”
Practice Exercises
To master subordinating conjunctions, practice is essential. Here are some exercises to help you:
1. Fill in the Blanks
Complete the sentences using the appropriate subordinating conjunction:
1. I’ll call you ____ I arrive.
2. She didn’t go to the party ____ she was tired.
3. ____ it was late, they kept working.
4. He took an umbrella ____ it might rain.
5. We can start ____ everyone arrives.
2. Combine Sentences
Combine the following pairs of sentences using subordinating conjunctions:
1. He studied hard. He wanted to pass the exam.
2. She was late. The traffic was heavy.
3. They went for a walk. It was raining.
4. I’ll buy a new car. I save enough money.
5. We stayed home. It was snowing.
Answers to Practice Exercises
1. Fill in the Blanks
1. I’ll call you when I arrive.
2. She didn’t go to the party because she was tired.
3. Although it was late, they kept working.
4. He took an umbrella in case it might rain.
5. We can start once everyone arrives.
2. Combine Sentences
1. He studied hard so that he could pass the exam.
2. She was late because the traffic was heavy.
3. Although it was raining, they went for a walk.
4. I’ll buy a new car once I save enough money.
5. We stayed home because it was snowing.
Conclusion
Understanding and using subordinating conjunctions effectively is vital for constructing coherent and meaningful sentences. These conjunctions help to show relationships between ideas, making your writing and speech more nuanced and precise. By recognizing the different types of subordinating conjunctions and practicing their use, you’ll enhance your language skills and become a more effective communicator. Remember, practice makes perfect, so keep experimenting with subordinating conjunctions in your sentences to gain confidence and proficiency. Happy learning!
