Subordinating conjunctions are an essential component of English grammar. They help to link dependent clauses to independent clauses, thereby providing additional information and adding depth to sentences. Understanding subordinating conjunctions is crucial for anyone striving to achieve fluency in English, whether for academic, professional, or personal purposes. This article will delve deeply into what subordinating conjunctions are, their types, and how to use them effectively in sentences.
What Are Subordinating Conjunctions?
Subordinating conjunctions are words that connect a dependent clause to an independent clause. A dependent clause, also known as a subordinate clause, cannot stand alone as a sentence because it does not express a complete thought. On the other hand, an independent clause can stand alone because it does express a complete thought. The role of the subordinating conjunction is to link these two clauses, showing a relationship between them such as cause and effect, contrast, or time.
Some common subordinating conjunctions include: although, because, since, unless, if, when, while, and after.
Examples:
1. **Because** it was raining, we canceled the picnic.
2. I will call you **when** I arrive.
3. **Although** he was tired, he finished his homework.
In each of these sentences, the subordinating conjunction links a dependent clause to an independent clause, providing additional information that enhances the meaning of the sentence.
Types of Subordinating Conjunctions
Subordinating conjunctions can be categorized based on the type of relationship they express between the dependent and independent clauses. Here are some of the main types:
1. Cause and Effect
These subordinating conjunctions show a cause-and-effect relationship between two clauses. Some common examples include because, since, and so that.
– **Because**: “I stayed home because I was feeling ill.”
– **Since**: “Since you have finished your assignment, you can go out.”
– **So that**: “She studied hard so that she could pass the exam.”
2. Contrast
These subordinating conjunctions show a contrast or opposition between two clauses. Some common examples include although, even though, and whereas.
– **Although**: “Although it was late, he continued working.”
– **Even though**: “Even though she was sick, she went to work.”
– **Whereas**: “He likes coffee, whereas she prefers tea.”
3. Time
These subordinating conjunctions indicate the timing of the action in the dependent clause relative to the action in the independent clause. Some common examples include when, while, after, before, and until.
– **When**: “I will call you when I arrive.”
– **While**: “She was reading a book while he was watching TV.”
– **After**: “We went out for dinner after the movie.”
– **Before**: “He finished his work before the deadline.”
– **Until**: “We waited until the store opened.”
4. Condition
These subordinating conjunctions express a condition under which the action in the independent clause will take place. Some common examples include if, unless, and provided that.
– **If**: “If it rains, we will stay inside.”
– **Unless**: “You won’t succeed unless you try.”
– **Provided that**: “You can go out provided that you finish your homework.”
How to Use Subordinating Conjunctions
Using subordinating conjunctions correctly involves understanding how to structure sentences with dependent and independent clauses. Here are some guidelines to help you use them effectively:
1. Position of the Clauses
The dependent clause can either come before or after the independent clause. When it comes before, it is usually followed by a comma.
– Dependent clause first: “Because it was raining, we canceled the picnic.”
– Independent clause first: “We canceled the picnic because it was raining.”
When the dependent clause comes after the independent clause, a comma is generally not needed.
2. Punctuation
When the dependent clause comes before the independent clause, it is typically followed by a comma. However, when the independent clause comes first, no comma is usually necessary.
– Dependent clause first: “Although he was tired, he finished his homework.”
– Independent clause first: “He finished his homework although he was tired.”
3. Subordinate Clauses as Sentence Fragments
A common mistake is to treat a dependent clause as a complete sentence. Remember that a dependent clause cannot stand alone and must be attached to an independent clause.
Incorrect: “Because it was raining.”
Correct: “Because it was raining, we canceled the picnic.”
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Even advanced English learners can sometimes struggle with subordinating conjunctions. Here are some common mistakes and tips on how to avoid them:
1. Misplacing the Conjunction
Ensure that the subordinating conjunction is placed at the beginning of the dependent clause.
Incorrect: “I will call you I arrive when.”
Correct: “I will call you when I arrive.”
2. Sentence Fragments
As mentioned earlier, a dependent clause cannot stand alone. Always attach it to an independent clause.
Incorrect: “While I was walking.”
Correct: “While I was walking, I saw a beautiful bird.”
3. Incorrect Punctuation
Use a comma when the dependent clause comes before the independent clause, but not when it comes after.
Incorrect: “Although he was tired he finished his homework.”
Correct: “Although he was tired, he finished his homework.”
4. Using the Wrong Conjunction
Choose the subordinating conjunction that correctly expresses the relationship between the two clauses.
Incorrect: “Because he was tired, he didn’t go to the party.” (implies cause and effect)
Correct: “Although he was tired, he didn’t go to the party.” (implies contrast)
Advanced Usage of Subordinating Conjunctions
For those who are more advanced in their English learning, understanding the nuanced use of subordinating conjunctions can add sophistication to your writing and speaking. Here are some advanced tips:
1. Using Multiple Subordinate Clauses
In complex sentences, you might find the need to use more than one subordinate clause. Ensure that each clause is clearly connected to the main clause.
Example: “Because it was raining and since I had no umbrella, I decided to stay home.”
In this sentence, both “because it was raining” and “since I had no umbrella” are subordinate clauses that provide reasons for the main action “I decided to stay home.”
2. Elliptical Clauses
Sometimes, the subordinating conjunction and part of the clause can be omitted if they are understood from the context. This is known as an elliptical clause.
Example: “He is taller than I am.”
In this sentence, “am” is understood and does not need to be repeated. The full sentence would be “He is taller than I am tall.”
3. Using Subordinating Conjunctions for Emphasis
Sometimes, placing the dependent clause at the beginning of the sentence can add emphasis or highlight the importance of the information.
Example: “Although he had little experience, he was hired for the job.”
Placing “although he had little experience” at the beginning emphasizes the surprising nature of the fact that he was hired.
Practice Exercises
To solidify your understanding of subordinating conjunctions, it’s essential to practice. Here are some exercises to help you:
Exercise 1: Identify the Subordinating Conjunction
In the following sentences, identify the subordinating conjunction and the dependent clause:
1. “She stayed home because she was feeling ill.”
2. “Although it was late, he continued working.”
3. “We went out for dinner after the movie.”
4. “If it rains, we will stay inside.”
Exercise 2: Combine the Sentences
Combine the following pairs of sentences using the appropriate subordinating conjunction:
1. “She was tired. She finished her homework.” (although)
2. “It was raining. We canceled the picnic.” (because)
3. “He will come. He is invited.” (if)
4. “I will call you. I arrive.” (when)
Exercise 3: Correct the Mistakes
Correct the mistakes in the following sentences:
1. “Although he was tired he finished his homework.”
2. “I will call you I arrive when.”
3. “Because it was raining.”
4. “She went to work even though she was sick.”
Conclusion
Subordinating conjunctions are a vital part of English grammar, helping to connect ideas and provide clarity and depth to sentences. By understanding the different types of subordinating conjunctions and how to use them correctly, you can improve your writing and speaking skills. Remember to practice regularly and pay attention to common mistakes to ensure that you use subordinating conjunctions effectively.
Whether you are writing an academic paper, a professional email, or simply having a conversation, mastering subordinating conjunctions will enhance your ability to communicate clearly and effectively in English. Happy learning!
