Subordinating conjunctions play a crucial role in the structure and meaning of sentences in the English language. They are essential for creating complex sentences by connecting independent clauses with dependent clauses, thereby adding depth and detail to your writing. Whether you are a native speaker or learning English as a second language, understanding subordinating conjunctions can significantly enhance your communication skills.
What Are Subordinating Conjunctions?
Subordinating conjunctions are words or phrases that link a dependent clause to an independent clause. The dependent clause, also known as a subordinate clause, cannot stand alone as a complete sentence. It depends on the independent clause to give it context and meaning. Common subordinating conjunctions include words such as “because,” “although,” “since,” “if,” “while,” “when,” and “after.”
For example:
– “I stayed home because it was raining.”
– “She was happy although she didn’t win the prize.”
Types of Subordinating Conjunctions
Subordinating conjunctions can be categorized based on the type of relationship they indicate between the clauses. Here are some common types:
1. Cause and Effect
These subordinating conjunctions show a cause-and-effect relationship between the clauses. Common examples include “because,” “since,” and “as.”
– “She went to bed early because she was tired.”
– “He didn’t go to the party since he had a lot of work to do.”
2. Contrast
Subordinating conjunctions that indicate contrast include “although,” “though,” “even though,” and “whereas.”
– “He kept running although he was exhausted.”
– “The project was successful even though we faced many challenges.”
3. Time
These conjunctions indicate a time relationship between the clauses. Examples include “when,” “while,” “before,” “after,” and “until.”
– “Call me when you arrive.”
– “She waited until he finished his work.”
4. Condition
Subordinating conjunctions that show a condition include “if,” “unless,” “provided that,” and “as long as.”
– “You can go out if you finish your homework.”
– “I’ll help you provided that you ask nicely.”
5. Purpose
These conjunctions indicate the purpose of the action in the independent clause. Common examples are “so that,” “in order that,” and “lest.”
– “She studied hard so that she could pass the exam.”
– “He took an umbrella in order that he wouldn’t get wet.”
Using Subordinating Conjunctions in Sentences
When using subordinating conjunctions, it’s important to understand how they affect sentence structure. The dependent clause can appear at the beginning or end of the sentence. However, if the dependent clause comes first, it is usually followed by a comma.
For example:
– “Because it was raining, I stayed home.”
– “I stayed home because it was raining.”
Both sentences are correct, but the placement of the dependent clause affects the punctuation.
Common Mistakes with Subordinating Conjunctions
1. Sentence Fragments
One of the most common mistakes is creating sentence fragments by using a dependent clause without an independent clause. A dependent clause cannot stand alone as a complete sentence.
Incorrect: “Because it was raining.”
Correct: “I stayed home because it was raining.”
2. Misplaced Commas
When the dependent clause comes after the independent clause, a comma is not needed.
Incorrect: “I stayed home, because it was raining.”
Correct: “I stayed home because it was raining.”
3. Incorrect Conjunction
Using the wrong subordinating conjunction can change the meaning of the sentence or make it unclear.
Incorrect: “He was late because he missed the bus.” (This implies that missing the bus was the cause of being late, which is correct.)
Correct: “He missed the bus because he was late.” (This implies that being late was the cause of missing the bus, which is also correct but changes the meaning.)
Advanced Usage of Subordinating Conjunctions
Once you’re comfortable with basic subordinating conjunctions, you can explore more advanced usages to add variety and sophistication to your writing.
1. Correlative Conjunctions
Some subordinating conjunctions work in pairs, known as correlative conjunctions. Examples include “neither…nor,” “either…or,” and “not only…but also.”
– “She is neither tired nor hungry.”
– “You can either come with me or stay here.”
2. Conjunctive Adverbs
Conjunctive adverbs, such as “however,” “therefore,” and “meanwhile,” can also function similarly to subordinating conjunctions, linking clauses and indicating relationships like contrast and cause and effect.
– “She didn’t study hard; therefore, she failed the exam.”
– “He was tired; however, he kept working.”
3. Complex Sentences
Using multiple subordinating conjunctions in a single sentence can create complex sentences that convey detailed information.
– “Although it was raining, we decided to go for a hike because we had planned it for weeks.”
– “If you finish your work before 5 PM, we can go to the movie that starts at 6 PM.”
Exercises to Practice Subordinating Conjunctions
To master the use of subordinating conjunctions, practice is key. Here are a few exercises to help you get started:
1. Fill in the Blanks
Complete the sentences by choosing the correct subordinating conjunction from the list provided.
1. She didn’t go to the party ____ she was feeling sick. (because, although, if)
2. Call me ____ you get home. (when, because, unless)
3. He kept working ____ he was tired. (although, since, if)
2. Combine Sentences
Combine the following pairs of sentences using subordinating conjunctions.
1. He was late. He missed the bus.
2. She studied hard. She wanted to pass the exam.
3. It was raining. We went for a walk.
3. Rewrite Sentences
Rewrite the following sentences by placing the dependent clause at the beginning.
1. I stayed home because it was raining.
2. She was happy although she didn’t win the prize.
3. You can go out if you finish your homework.
Conclusion
Subordinating conjunctions are a fundamental component of English grammar that allow you to create complex, nuanced sentences. By understanding and practicing their use, you can improve your writing and communication skills significantly. Remember to pay attention to the relationships between the clauses and choose the appropriate subordinating conjunction to convey your intended meaning. With practice, you’ll become more confident in using subordinating conjunctions effectively in your writing.
