In the vast landscape of the English language, understanding the different types of conjunctions is crucial for mastering fluent and coherent expression. Among these, subordinating conjunctions play a pivotal role in connecting ideas and establishing relationships between clauses. This article will delve deep into the world of subordinating conjunctions, exploring their usage, types, and examples to help you grasp their importance and apply them effectively in your writing and speech.
What Are Subordinating Conjunctions?
Subordinating conjunctions are words or phrases that link a dependent clause to an independent clause. A dependent clause, also known as a subordinate clause, cannot stand alone as a complete sentence because it does not express a complete thought. In contrast, an independent clause can stand alone as a complete sentence. The role of subordinating conjunctions is to show the relationship between these clauses, often indicating time, cause and effect, contrast, condition, or purpose.
Examples of Subordinating Conjunctions
Here are some common subordinating conjunctions:
– Because
– Although
– Since
– Unless
– If
– When
– While
– After
– Before
– Even though
– As
Types of Subordinating Conjunctions
Subordinating conjunctions can be categorized based on the type of relationship they express between the clauses. Let’s explore these categories in detail:
1. Time
Subordinating conjunctions that denote time help to establish when something happens in relation to another event. Some common time-related subordinating conjunctions include:
– After: “After I finished my homework, I went for a walk.”
– Before: “Before we leave, make sure the lights are off.”
– When: “When the sun sets, the sky turns orange.”
– While: “While she was cooking, the phone rang.”
– Since: “I have been happy since I met you.”
– Until: “We will wait until the rain stops.”
2. Cause and Effect
These subordinating conjunctions indicate reasons and results. They show why something happens or the result of an action. Examples include:
– Because: “She stayed home because she was feeling sick.”
– Since: “Since it was raining, the match was postponed.”
– As: “As it was getting late, we decided to leave.”
– In order that: “I studied hard in order that I might pass the exam.”
– So that: “He lowered his voice so that nobody could hear him.”
3. Contrast
These conjunctions highlight contrasts or unexpected results between clauses. Examples are:
– Although: “Although he is rich, he is not happy.”
– Even though: “Even though it was raining, we went for a hike.”
– Though: “Though she was tired, she continued working.”
– Whereas: “She loves coffee, whereas he prefers tea.”
– While: “While I enjoy tennis, my brother prefers soccer.”
4. Condition
Subordinating conjunctions expressing conditions set terms for the action in the main clause. Common examples include:
– If: “If it rains, we will stay indoors.”
– Unless: “You won’t succeed unless you try.”
– Provided that: “You can go out provided that you finish your homework.”
– As long as: “You can borrow my car as long as you drive carefully.”
– In case: “Take an umbrella in case it rains.”
5. Purpose
These conjunctions are used to indicate the purpose of an action. Examples are:
– 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 test.”
– Lest: “He wrote it down lest he should forget.”
Forming Complex Sentences with Subordinating Conjunctions
To effectively use subordinating conjunctions, it’s essential to understand how to form complex sentences. A complex sentence consists of an independent clause and one or more dependent clauses linked by subordinating conjunctions. Here’s a step-by-step guide to forming complex sentences:
1. **Identify the independent clause**: This is the main part of the sentence that can stand alone and expresses a complete thought.
2. **Identify the dependent clause**: This cannot stand alone and depends on the main clause to give it meaning.
3. **Choose the appropriate subordinating conjunction**: Depending on the relationship you want to express (time, cause and effect, contrast, condition, or purpose), select a suitable subordinating conjunction.
4. **Combine the clauses**: Use the subordinating conjunction to link the dependent clause to the independent clause.
For example:
– **Independent clause**: “I went to the store.”
– **Dependent clause**: “because I needed milk.”
– **Complex sentence**: “I went to the store because I needed milk.”
Common Mistakes with Subordinating Conjunctions
While subordinating conjunctions are relatively straightforward, there are some common pitfalls that learners should be aware of:
1. Sentence Fragments
A dependent clause introduced by a subordinating conjunction cannot stand alone. Ensure that it is always attached to an independent clause. For example:
– Incorrect: “Because I was tired.”
– Correct: “Because I was tired, I went to bed early.”
2. Punctuation Errors
When the dependent clause comes before the independent clause, a comma should follow the dependent clause. However, if the independent clause comes first, no comma is needed. For example:
– “Although it was raining, we went for a walk.”
– “We went for a walk although it was raining.”
3. Misuse of Conjunctions
Ensure that you choose the right subordinating conjunction to express the intended relationship. Using the wrong conjunction can confuse the meaning of your sentence. For example:
– Incorrect: “I stayed home unless I was tired.”
– Correct: “I stayed home because I was tired.”
Advanced Usage of Subordinating Conjunctions
For those looking to refine their language skills further, here are some advanced tips for using subordinating conjunctions:
1. Varying Sentence Structure
To make your writing more engaging, vary the placement of your dependent and independent clauses. Starting some sentences with the dependent clause can add variety and improve the flow of your writing.
For example:
– “Although it was late, we continued working.”
– “We continued working although it was late.”
2. Using Multiple Subordinating Conjunctions
In more complex sentences, you may need to use more than one subordinating conjunction. This can help to express more nuanced relationships between ideas.
For example:
– “Because it was raining and since we had no umbrella, we decided to stay indoors.”
3. Combining with Coordinating Conjunctions
You can combine subordinating conjunctions with coordinating conjunctions (and, but, or, nor, for, so, yet) to create compound-complex sentences, which include at least two independent clauses and one or more dependent clauses.
For example:
– “I went to the park because I needed some fresh air, but it started to rain.”
Practice Exercises
To reinforce your understanding of subordinating conjunctions, try the following exercises:
Exercise 1: Identify the Subordinating Conjunction
Underline the subordinating conjunctions in the following sentences:
1. “She studied hard so that she could get a scholarship.”
2. “Although he was tired, he continued working.”
3. “If you finish your homework, you can watch TV.”
4. “We stayed indoors because it was raining.”
5. “Since I met you, my life has changed.”
Exercise 2: Combine the Sentences
Combine the following pairs of sentences using the appropriate subordinating conjunction:
1. “It was raining. We went for a walk.” (although)
2. “She was late. She missed the bus.” (because)
3. “He studied hard. He could pass the exam.” (so that)
4. “I will call you. I get home.” (when)
5. “They stayed at home. It was snowing.” (since)
Exercise 3: Correct the Errors
Correct the errors in the following sentences:
1. “Unless you study hard. You will not pass the exam.”
2. “Because it was raining we stayed indoors.”
3. “She didn’t go to the party although she was tired.”
4. “I went to bed early although I was very tired.”
5. “He decided to stay home since he was feeling ill.”
Conclusion
Subordinating conjunctions are essential tools for creating complex and nuanced sentences in English. By understanding their types and usage, you can significantly enhance your writing and speaking skills. Remember to practice regularly, vary your sentence structures, and pay attention to punctuation to avoid common mistakes. With these tips and exercises, you’ll be well on your way to mastering subordinating conjunctions and improving your overall command of the English language. Happy learning!
