When learning English, one of the essential elements to master is the use of conjunctions. Conjunctions are words that link other words, phrases, or clauses together to form coherent sentences. Among the different types of conjunctions, subordinating conjunctions play a crucial role in adding depth and complexity to your sentences. They help in indicating various relationships between the connected clauses, such as time, cause, condition, contrast, and purpose. This article will delve into the world of subordinating conjunctions, explaining what they are, how to use them, and providing examples to illustrate their importance.
What Are Subordinating Conjunctions?
Subordinating conjunctions are words that connect an independent clause with a dependent clause. An independent clause can stand alone as a complete sentence, while a dependent clause cannot. The subordinating conjunction introduces the dependent clause and indicates its relationship with the independent clause. Common subordinating conjunctions include words like although, because, since, if, when, and while.
For example:
– “I stayed home because it was raining.”
– “She will succeed if she works hard.”
In both examples, the subordinating conjunctions “because” and “if” link the dependent clauses to the independent clauses, providing additional information about the circumstances of the main action.
Types of Subordinating Conjunctions
Subordinating conjunctions can be categorized based on the type of relationship they establish between the clauses. Here are some of the most common types:
Time
Subordinating conjunctions that indicate time include when, while, before, after, until, as soon as, and since. These conjunctions help to specify the timing of the events described in the clauses.
Examples:
– “Call me when you arrive.”
– “I will wait here until you come back.”
Cause and Effect
Conjunctions that indicate cause and effect include because, since, as, and so that. These conjunctions explain why something happens or the result of an action.
Examples:
– “She was late because she missed the bus.”
– “He studied hard so that he could pass the exam.”
Condition
Subordinating conjunctions that express condition include if, unless, provided that, and as long as. These conjunctions introduce clauses that describe conditions under which the main clause will occur.
Examples:
– “You can go out if you finish your homework.”
– “I won’t call you unless it’s an emergency.”
Contrast
Conjunctions that indicate contrast include although, though, even though, whereas, and while. These conjunctions highlight a difference between the ideas expressed in the clauses.
Examples:
– “Although it was raining, we went for a walk.”
– “She is very friendly, whereas her brother is quite shy.”
Purpose
Subordinating conjunctions that indicate purpose include so that, in order that, and lest. These conjunctions explain the purpose of the action in the main clause.
Examples:
– “He left early so that he could catch the train.”
– “She exercises regularly in order that she stays healthy.”
How to Use Subordinating Conjunctions
Using subordinating conjunctions correctly can greatly enhance your writing and speaking skills. Here are some guidelines to help you use them effectively:
Placement of Clauses
The dependent clause can either precede or follow the independent clause. When the dependent clause comes first, it is usually followed by a comma. When the independent clause comes first, a comma is typically not needed.
Examples:
– “Because it was raining, we stayed inside.” (Dependent clause first, comma needed)
– “We stayed inside because it was raining.” (Independent clause first, no comma needed)
Choosing the Right Conjunction
Selecting the appropriate subordinating conjunction is essential for conveying the intended meaning. Consider the relationship between the clauses and choose a conjunction that accurately represents that relationship.
Examples:
– “I brought an umbrella because it was forecasted to rain.” (Cause and effect)
– “I will call you when I arrive.” (Time)
Maintaining Sentence Variety
To keep your writing engaging, try to vary your sentence structure by using different subordinating conjunctions and placing dependent clauses in different positions.
Examples:
– “She was tired because she had been working all day.”
– “Although she was tired, she continued working.”
Common Mistakes to Avoid
While subordinating conjunctions are relatively straightforward, there are some common mistakes that learners often make. Being aware of these can help you avoid them:
Comma Usage
Remember that a comma is usually required when the dependent clause comes first, but not when the independent clause comes first.
Incorrect: “Although it was late but she kept working.”
Correct: “Although it was late, she kept working.”
Using the Wrong Conjunction
Choosing an incorrect subordinating conjunction can change the meaning of your sentence or make it unclear.
Incorrect: “I will go out unless it rains.” (This implies you will go out only if it rains, which is the opposite of what is likely intended.)
Correct: “I will go out if it doesn’t rain.”
Fragmented Sentences
A dependent clause cannot stand alone as a complete sentence. Ensure that your dependent clause is always connected to an independent clause.
Incorrect: “While I was waiting. I read a book.”
Correct: “While I was waiting, I read a book.”
Practice Exercises
To solidify your understanding of subordinating conjunctions, try these exercises. Fill in the blanks with the appropriate subordinating conjunction:
1. I will call you ____ I arrive.
2. She didn’t go to the party ____ she was feeling sick.
3. ____ he was tired, he finished the project.
4. You can borrow my car ____ you promise to drive carefully.
5. We waited ____ the bus arrived.
Answers:
1. when
2. because
3. Although
4. if
5. until
Advanced Usage
For advanced learners, mastering subordinating conjunctions involves not just using them correctly, but using them to create nuanced and sophisticated sentences. Here are some tips for advanced usage:
Using Multiple Subordinating Conjunctions
In more complex sentences, you might need to use more than one subordinating conjunction.
Example:
– “I will go to the store if it stops raining before noon.”
Creating Emphasis
Subordinating conjunctions can be used to emphasize certain aspects of a sentence. By placing the dependent clause at the beginning, you can draw attention to it.
Example:
– “Although she was very busy, she took the time to help me.”
Combining with Coordinating Conjunctions
You can combine subordinating conjunctions with coordinating conjunctions (such as and, but, or, nor, for, so, and yet) to create even more complex sentences.
Example:
– “I stayed home because it was raining, and I watched a movie.”
Conclusion
Subordinating conjunctions are a vital part of the English language, helping to link ideas and provide clarity and depth to your sentences. By understanding the different types of subordinating conjunctions and how to use them correctly, you can greatly improve your writing and speaking skills. Whether you are a beginner or an advanced learner, mastering subordinating conjunctions will enable you to express complex ideas more effectively. Practice using these conjunctions in your sentences, and soon you will find that they become a natural part of your language repertoire.
