Subordinating conjunctions are an essential aspect of English grammar that often perplex both native and non-native speakers alike. Understanding and correctly using these conjunctions can significantly enhance the complexity and clarity of your sentences, thereby improving your overall communication skills. In this article, we will delve deep into the world of subordinating conjunctions, exploring their functions, types, and providing various examples to help you master their usage.
What are Subordinating Conjunctions?
Subordinating conjunctions are words or phrases that link a dependent clause to an independent clause. Unlike coordinating conjunctions, which connect words, phrases, or clauses of equal importance, subordinating conjunctions introduce a subordinate clause, making it dependent on the main clause. This relationship creates a complex sentence that provides more detailed information.
For example:
– I will go to the park if it stops raining.
In this sentence, “if” is the subordinating conjunction that links the dependent clause (“if it stops raining”) to the independent clause (“I will go to the park”). The dependent clause cannot stand alone and needs the main clause to complete its meaning.
Types of Subordinating Conjunctions
Subordinating conjunctions can be categorized based on the type of relationship they establish between the clauses. Here are some common types:
1. Cause and Effect
These conjunctions show a cause-and-effect relationship between the dependent and independent clauses.
– Because: I stayed home because I was feeling sick.
– Since: Since you have finished your homework, you can go out and play.
– As: As it was raining, we decided to stay indoors.
2. Time
These conjunctions indicate the timing of the action in the dependent clause relative to the action in the main clause.
– When: I was reading a book when the phone rang.
– While: While I was cooking, the doorbell rang.
– Before: Finish your homework before you go to bed.
– After: After we ate dinner, we watched a movie.
– Until: We waited until the train arrived.
3. Condition
These conjunctions set up a condition that must be met for the action in the main clause to occur.
– If: If you study hard, you will pass the exam.
– Unless: You won’t succeed unless you try.
– Provided that: You can go out provided that you finish your chores.
4. Contrast
These conjunctions show a contrast or contradiction between the dependent and independent clauses.
– Although: Although it was raining, we went for a walk.
– Though: Though she was tired, she continued to work.
– Even though: Even though he was late, he still managed to catch the train.
– Whereas: She likes coffee, whereas I prefer tea.
5. Purpose
These conjunctions indicate the purpose of the action in the main clause.
– So that: He studied hard so that he could get a scholarship.
– In order that: She saved money in order that she might travel.
6. Comparison
These conjunctions make a comparison between the dependent and independent clauses.
– Than: She is taller than her brother.
– As…as: He runs as fast as a cheetah.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Subordinating conjunctions can be tricky, and many people make mistakes when using them. Here are some common pitfalls and tips on how to avoid them:
1. Misplacing the Comma
When the dependent clause comes before the independent clause, a comma should separate them. However, when the independent clause comes first, no comma is needed.
– Correct: Because it was late, we decided to go home.
– Incorrect: Because it was late we decided to go home.
– Correct: We decided to go home because it was late.
– Incorrect: We decided to go home, because it was late.
2. Using the Wrong Conjunction
Choosing the right subordinating conjunction is crucial for conveying the correct meaning. Make sure you understand the specific function of each conjunction.
– Incorrect: I went to the store while it was closed. (This implies simultaneity, which doesn’t make sense here.)
– Correct: I went to the store although it was closed. (This correctly indicates contrast.)
3. Overusing Subordinating Conjunctions
While subordinating conjunctions add complexity to your sentences, overusing them can make your writing convoluted and hard to follow. Balance is key.
– Incorrect: Although it was raining, because I had an umbrella, since I was wearing boots, I went for a walk.
– Correct: Although it was raining, I went for a walk because I had an umbrella and was wearing boots.
Exercises to Practice Subordinating Conjunctions
To master subordinating conjunctions, practice is essential. Here are some exercises to help you get started:
Exercise 1: Identify the Subordinating Conjunction
Read the following sentences and identify the subordinating conjunction in each.
1. I will call you after I finish my homework.
2. She left early because she had an appointment.
3. We can go to the beach unless it rains.
4. He stayed up late even though he was tired.
5. Since it was a holiday, the office was closed.
Exercise 2: Fill in the Blanks
Fill in the blanks with the appropriate subordinating conjunction.
1. I will go for a run _______ it stops raining.
2. She didn’t go to the party _______ she wasn’t feeling well.
3. We waited _______ the bus arrived.
4. _______ he was hungry, he didn’t eat anything.
5. You can borrow my book _______ you promise to return it.
Exercise 3: Combine the Sentences
Combine the following pairs of sentences using an appropriate subordinating conjunction.
1. It was raining. We went for a walk.
2. He was tired. He finished his project.
3. She studied hard. She could get good grades.
4. The store was closed. I went there to buy some groceries.
5. I will call you. I finish my work.
Advanced Usage of Subordinating Conjunctions
Once you have a good grasp of basic subordinating conjunctions, you can explore more advanced uses to add nuance and depth to your writing.
1. Correlative Subordinating Conjunctions
These pairs of conjunctions work together to relate two clauses.
– Not only…but also: Not only did he finish his homework, but he also cleaned his room.
– Whether…or: Whether you like it or not, you have to attend the meeting.
2. Multiple Subordinating Conjunctions in a Sentence
Sometimes, sentences can have more than one subordinating conjunction to show complex relationships.
– Although it was raining, we went for a walk because we wanted some fresh air.
3. Inversion with Subordinating Conjunctions
In formal writing, sometimes the word order is inverted for emphasis.
– Had I known that you were coming, I would have waited. (Instead of: If I had known that you were coming, I would have waited.)
Conclusion
Understanding and using subordinating conjunctions effectively can greatly enhance your English communication skills. These conjunctions help in constructing complex sentences that provide detailed and nuanced information. By practicing their use, you can avoid common mistakes and make your writing more sophisticated and engaging.
Remember, the key to mastering subordinating conjunctions is consistent practice and application. Use the exercises provided to reinforce your understanding, and don’t hesitate to experiment with advanced structures as you become more confident. Happy learning!
