When learning a new language, mastering its grammar is essential for fluency and effective communication. One critical aspect of English grammar that often puzzles learners is the use of subordinating conjunctions. These tiny words or phrases connect an independent clause with a dependent clause, creating a complex sentence that adds depth and meaning to our communication. In this article, we will explore what subordinating conjunctions are, their functions, and how to use them effectively.
Understanding Subordinating Conjunctions
Subordinating conjunctions are words or phrases that introduce a dependent clause and link it to an independent clause. An independent clause can stand alone as a complete sentence because it expresses a complete thought. In contrast, a dependent clause, also known as a subordinate clause, cannot stand alone as it does not express a complete thought. When these two types of clauses are combined using a subordinating conjunction, they form a complex sentence.
Some common subordinating conjunctions include: because, although, since, while, as, if, when, where, unless, even though, and after. Each of these conjunctions serves a specific purpose and indicates a particular relationship between the dependent and independent clauses.
Types of Subordinating Conjunctions
Subordinating conjunctions can be categorized based on the type of relationship they express between clauses. Here are some of the main types:
1. Cause and Effect
These subordinating conjunctions show that one event is the result of another. Some common examples are:
– Because: “She stayed home because she was feeling sick.”
– Since: “Since it was raining, we decided to cancel the picnic.”
– As: “As he was late, we started the meeting without him.”
2. Contrast
Contrast subordinating conjunctions indicate a contrast or exception between two clauses. Examples include:
– Although: “Although it was cold, they went for a walk.”
– Even though: “Even though she studied hard, she didn’t pass the exam.”
– While: “While he is very talented, he still needs to practice.”
3. Condition
These conjunctions introduce a conditional relationship where one clause depends on the other. Examples are:
– 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 homework.”
4. Time
Time subordinating conjunctions establish a time relationship between clauses. Examples include:
– When: “I was reading when the phone rang.”
– After: “She went to bed after she finished her work.”
– Before: “We need to leave before the sun sets.”
5. Place
These conjunctions indicate the place or location where an action occurs. Examples are:
– Where: “They found the treasure where the map indicated.”
– Wherever: “I will follow you wherever you go.”
Using Subordinating Conjunctions in Sentences
Understanding how to use subordinating conjunctions in sentences is crucial for creating complex sentences that convey more detailed and nuanced information. Here are some guidelines to help you use them effectively:
1. Position of the Dependent Clause
A dependent clause introduced by a subordinating conjunction can appear at the beginning, middle, or end of a sentence. However, the position can sometimes affect the meaning or emphasis of the sentence.
– Beginning: “Because it was raining, we stayed indoors.”
– Middle: “We stayed indoors because it was raining.”
– End: “We stayed indoors because it was raining.”
Notice that when the dependent clause comes first, it is usually followed by a comma. When it appears at the end, a comma is not necessary.
2. Making Sense of the Sentence
Ensure that the sentence makes sense when the independent and dependent clauses are combined. The subordinating conjunction should clearly indicate the relationship between the two clauses.
– Correct: “Although she was tired, she finished her homework.”
– Incorrect: “Although she was tired, but she finished her homework.”
3. Avoiding Sentence Fragments
A dependent clause cannot stand alone as a complete sentence. Ensure that it is always connected to an independent clause to avoid sentence fragments.
– Fragment: “Because she was late.”
– Complete Sentence: “Because she was late, she missed the bus.”
Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them
Despite their importance, subordinating conjunctions can be tricky to master. Here are some common pitfalls and tips on how to avoid them:
1. Overusing Certain Conjunctions
While it’s essential to use subordinating conjunctions to create complex sentences, overusing certain ones like “because” or “although” can make your writing repetitive. Try to vary your conjunctions to keep your writing interesting and dynamic.
– Repetitive: “She stayed home because she was sick. She missed the meeting because she was home.”
– Varied: “She stayed home because she was sick. Consequently, she missed the meeting.”
2. Confusing Subordinating and Coordinating Conjunctions
Subordinating conjunctions should not be confused with coordinating conjunctions (for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so). Coordinating conjunctions connect two independent clauses, while subordinating conjunctions connect an independent clause with a dependent one.
– Coordinating: “She was tired, but she finished her work.”
– Subordinating: “Although she was tired, she finished her work.”
3. Misplacing Commas
The placement of commas can change the meaning of a sentence. When the dependent clause comes first, it is usually followed by a comma. When it comes after the independent clause, no comma is needed.
– Correct: “If it rains, we will stay indoors.”
– Incorrect: “If it rains we will stay indoors.”
Advanced Usage of Subordinating Conjunctions
For more advanced learners, understanding and using subordinating conjunctions can go beyond the basics. Here are some advanced tips:
1. Using Multiple Subordinating Conjunctions
In more complex sentences, you may find the need to use multiple subordinating conjunctions. Ensure that each conjunction correctly links its respective clauses and maintains the overall coherence of the sentence.
– Example: “Although she was tired because she had stayed up late, she managed to finish her project on time.”
2. Subordinating Conjunctions with Relative Clauses
Subordinating conjunctions can also work with relative clauses to provide additional information about a noun. Relative clauses often begin with who, whom, whose, which, or that.
– Example: “The book, which I read last night, was fascinating because it offered new insights into history.”
3. Varying Sentence Structure
To make your writing more engaging, vary the structure of your sentences by alternating the position of the dependent clause. This technique can add rhythm and flow to your writing.
– Example: “After the show ended, we went for dinner. We went for dinner after the show ended.”
Practice Exercises
To solidify your understanding of subordinating conjunctions, here are some practice exercises. Try to combine the following independent and dependent clauses using appropriate subordinating conjunctions:
1. Independent Clause: “I will call you.”
Dependent Clause: “I get home.”
2. Independent Clause: “She was happy.”
Dependent Clause: “She heard the news.”
3. Independent Clause: “We can go hiking.”
Dependent Clause: “The weather is nice.”
4. Independent Clause: “He didn’t attend the meeting.”
Dependent Clause: “He was feeling unwell.”
5. Independent Clause: “You should take an umbrella.”
Dependent Clause: “It might rain.”
Answers:
1. “I will call you when I get home.”
2. “She was happy when she heard the news.”
3. “We can go hiking if the weather is nice.”
4. “He didn’t attend the meeting because he was feeling unwell.”
5. “You should take an umbrella in case it might rain.”
Conclusion
Subordinating conjunctions are a fundamental part of English grammar that help to create complex and meaningful sentences. By understanding their functions and learning how to use them effectively, you can enhance your writing and communication skills. Remember to practice regularly, vary your sentence structures, and pay attention to the relationships between clauses. With time and practice, you’ll find that using subordinating conjunctions becomes second nature, allowing you to express your thoughts more clearly and precisely.
