Subordinating conjunctions are an essential component of the English language that help to create complex sentences by connecting dependent clauses to independent clauses. These conjunctions play a crucial role in providing additional information, showing cause and effect, contrasting ideas, and establishing time relationships. Understanding how to use subordinating conjunctions can significantly enhance your writing and speaking skills, making your language more coherent and nuanced.
What Are Subordinating Conjunctions?
Subordinating conjunctions are words or phrases that link a dependent clause (a group of words that cannot stand alone as a sentence) to an independent clause (a group of words that can stand alone as a sentence). The dependent clause, introduced by the subordinating conjunction, adds extra information to the main clause but cannot exist independently.
Some common subordinating conjunctions include:
– because
– although
– since
– unless
– while
– if
– when
– after
– before
– until
Each of these subordinating conjunctions serves a different purpose and can change the meaning of the sentence in various ways.
Types of Subordinating Conjunctions
Subordinating conjunctions can be categorized based on their function in a sentence. Here are some of the main types and examples:
1. Cause and Effect
These conjunctions show a cause-and-effect relationship between two clauses. Examples include:
– **because**: “She stayed home because she was feeling sick.”
– **since**: “Since it was raining, we canceled the picnic.”
– **as**: “As he was late, we started the meeting without him.”
2. Contrast
These conjunctions are used to show a contrast or contradiction between two ideas. Examples include:
– **although**: “Although it was cold, they went for a swim.”
– **even though**: “Even though she was tired, she finished her homework.”
– **whereas**: “He likes coffee, whereas she prefers tea.”
3. Condition
These conjunctions establish a condition for something to happen. Examples include:
– **if**: “If it rains, we will stay indoors.”
– **unless**: “You won’t succeed unless you work hard.”
– **provided that**: “You can go out provided that you finish your chores.”
4. Time
These conjunctions indicate a time relationship between two events. Examples include:
– **when**: “Call me when you arrive.”
– **while**: “She read a book while waiting for the bus.”
– **before**: “Finish your dinner before you watch TV.”
– **after**: “They went for a walk after they had eaten.”
How to Use Subordinating Conjunctions
Using subordinating conjunctions correctly can greatly improve the clarity and complexity of your sentences. Here are some guidelines to help you:
Positioning the Clauses
A sentence with a subordinating conjunction can start with either the independent clause or the dependent clause. However, the punctuation differs depending on the order:
– **Dependent clause first**: Place a comma after the dependent clause.
Example: “Although it was raining, they went for a walk.”
– **Independent clause first**: No comma is needed.
Example: “They went for a walk although it was raining.”
Avoiding Sentence Fragments
A common mistake when using subordinating conjunctions is to create sentence fragments. A dependent clause cannot stand alone as a complete sentence. Ensure that each dependent clause is connected to an independent clause.
Incorrect: “Because she was tired.”
Correct: “She went to bed early because she was tired.”
Combining Ideas
Subordinating conjunctions are a powerful tool for combining ideas and showing the relationship between them. Instead of using multiple short sentences, you can use subordinating conjunctions to create more fluid and cohesive sentences.
Short sentences: “She was hungry. She ate a sandwich.”
Combined: “She ate a sandwich because she was hungry.”
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Even experienced writers can make mistakes when using subordinating conjunctions. Here are some common errors and tips on how to avoid them:
Mistake 1: Misplacing the Comma
As mentioned earlier, the placement of commas is crucial when using subordinating conjunctions. A common mistake is to either omit the comma when it is needed or add a comma when it is not.
Incorrect: “Although it was late they continued working.”
Correct: “Although it was late, they continued working.”
Incorrect: “They continued working, although it was late.”
Correct: “They continued working although it was late.”
Mistake 2: Using the Wrong Conjunction
Different subordinating conjunctions convey different meanings and relationships. Using the wrong conjunction can change the intended meaning of your sentence.
Incorrect: “She went to bed if she was tired.”
Correct: “She went to bed because she was tired.”
Incorrect: “He passed the exam although he studied hard.”
Correct: “He passed the exam because he studied hard.”
Mistake 3: Creating Sentence Fragments
A dependent clause must always be attached to an independent clause. Leaving a dependent clause on its own creates a sentence fragment, which is grammatically incorrect.
Incorrect: “Since she was tired.”
Correct: “She went to bed early since she was tired.”
Advanced Usage of Subordinating Conjunctions
For those who are more advanced in their language learning journey, understanding the subtleties and nuances of subordinating conjunctions can add depth to your writing. Here are some advanced tips:
Using Multiple Subordinating Conjunctions
Sometimes, you may need to use more than one subordinating conjunction in a sentence. This can help to convey complex relationships between multiple ideas.
Example: “Although it was raining, we decided to go hiking because we had already made plans.”
Creating Emphasis
The placement of the dependent clause can affect the emphasis of the sentence. Placing the dependent clause at the beginning of the sentence can add emphasis to it.
Example: “Because she was the best candidate, she got the job.” (emphasis on the reason)
Example: “She got the job because she was the best candidate.” (emphasis on the result)
Using Subordinating Conjunctions in Complex Sentences
Complex sentences often involve more than one dependent clause, each introduced by a subordinating conjunction. This can help to convey intricate ideas and relationships.
Example: “If you study hard and practice regularly, you will improve your skills, although it may take some time.”
Exercises and Practice
To master the use of subordinating conjunctions, regular practice is essential. Here are some exercises to help you:
Exercise 1: Fill in the Blanks
Complete the following sentences using the appropriate subordinating conjunctions:
1. She went to the store ______ she needed to buy groceries.
2. ______ it was raining, they continued the game.
3. You can go out ______ you finish your homework.
4. He studied hard ______ he could pass the exam.
5. Call me ______ you arrive.
Exercise 2: Combine Sentences
Combine the following pairs of sentences using subordinating conjunctions:
1. The sun was setting. They decided to go for a walk.
2. She was tired. She continued working.
3. He forgot his umbrella. It was raining.
4. You need to study. You want to pass the test.
5. I will wait. You arrive.
Exercise 3: Identify and Correct Errors
Identify and correct the errors in the following sentences:
1. Since it was late. They went home.
2. They went home, although it was late.
3. If it rains, we will stay indoors.
4. He passed the exam because he studied hard.
5. Although it was raining they went for a walk.
Conclusion
Subordinating conjunctions are a vital part of the English language, enabling you to create complex and meaningful sentences. By understanding and practicing their use, you can enhance your writing and speaking skills, making your language more coherent and expressive. Remember to pay attention to the placement of commas, avoid sentence fragments, and choose the appropriate conjunctions to convey your intended meaning. With regular practice, you will become more confident in using subordinating conjunctions effectively.