Subordinating conjunctions play a crucial role in the English language, serving as the glue that holds complex sentences together. They help in connecting dependent clauses to independent clauses, thereby adding depth, detail, and sophistication to our speech and writing. For language learners, mastering subordinating conjunctions is an essential step towards achieving fluency and flexibility in English.
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). Common examples of subordinating conjunctions include because, although, since, if, and when.
For instance:
– “I went to bed early because I was tired.”
– “She stayed at home although it was sunny outside.”
In these sentences, the subordinating conjunctions because and although introduce dependent clauses that provide additional information about the main clause.
Types of Subordinating Conjunctions
Subordinating conjunctions can be categorized based on the type of relationship they establish between the clauses. Here are some common categories:
1. Cause and Effect
These conjunctions explain why something happens or the result of an action. Examples include because, since, as, and so that.
– “She didn’t go to the party because she was feeling ill.”
– “He studied hard so that he could pass the exam.”
2. Contrast
These conjunctions show a contrast or exception between two ideas. Examples include although, though, even though, and whereas.
– “Although it was raining, they went for a walk.”
– “He loves coffee, whereas she prefers tea.”
3. Time
These conjunctions indicate the timing of an event in relation to another event. Examples include when, while, before, after, until, and as soon as.
– “Call me when you arrive.”
– “She waited until the bus arrived.”
4. Condition
These conjunctions establish the conditions under which something happens. Examples include if, unless, provided that, and as long as.
– “I’ll go to the beach if it’s sunny.”
– “You can borrow my car as long as you return it by evening.”
5. Purpose
These conjunctions indicate the purpose of an action. Examples include so that, in order that, and lest.
– “She saved money so that she could travel.”
– “He spoke softly lest he wake the baby.”
6. Place
These conjunctions specify the location of an action. Examples include where and wherever.
– “Sit where you like.”
– “She goes wherever her job takes her.”
How to Use Subordinating Conjunctions
Understanding how to use subordinating conjunctions correctly is key to crafting complex and nuanced sentences. Here are some essential rules and tips:
1. Placement in a Sentence
A subordinating conjunction can be placed at the beginning or in the middle of a sentence. When it is placed at the beginning, the dependent clause comes first, followed by a comma and then the independent clause.
– “Because she was tired, she went to bed early.”
– “Although it was sunny outside, she stayed at home.”
When the subordinating conjunction is placed in the middle, the independent clause comes first, followed by the subordinating conjunction and the dependent clause. In this case, no comma is needed.
– “She went to bed early because she was tired.”
– “She stayed at home although it was sunny outside.”
2. Choosing the Right Conjunction
Selecting the appropriate subordinating conjunction depends on the relationship you want to express between the clauses. For example:
– Use because to show cause and effect: “I stayed home because it was raining.”
– Use although to show contrast: “He went to the gym although he was tired.”
– Use when to indicate time: “She called me when she arrived.”
3. Avoiding Sentence Fragments
A dependent clause introduced by a subordinating conjunction cannot stand alone as a complete sentence. Always ensure it is connected to an independent clause.
Incorrect: “Because she was tired.”
Correct: “Because she was tired, she went to bed early.”
4. Combining Multiple Subordinating Conjunctions
Sometimes, you may need to use more than one subordinating conjunction in a sentence to express complex relationships. Be cautious not to overcomplicate the sentence and ensure clarity.
– “She went to bed early because she was tired although she had a lot of work to do.”
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Language learners often make mistakes when using subordinating conjunctions. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them:
1. Misplacing the Comma
When the dependent clause comes first, it should be followed by a comma. However, when the independent clause comes first, no comma is needed before the subordinating conjunction.
Incorrect: “She went to bed early, because she was tired.”
Correct: “She went to bed early because she was tired.”
2. Using the Wrong Conjunction
Each subordinating conjunction serves a specific purpose. Using the wrong conjunction can change the meaning of the sentence.
Incorrect: “She went to bed early although she was tired.” (This implies a contrast that doesn’t make sense.)
Correct: “She went to bed early because she was tired.”
3. Creating Sentence Fragments
A dependent clause cannot stand alone. Ensure it is always paired with an independent clause to form a complete sentence.
Incorrect: “Since I was late.”
Correct: “Since I was late, I missed the meeting.”
4. Overusing Subordinating Conjunctions
While subordinating conjunctions are useful, overusing them can make sentences convoluted. Aim for a balance between simple and complex sentences to maintain clarity and readability.
Exercises for Practice
To solidify your understanding of subordinating conjunctions, try these exercises:
1. Fill in the Blanks
Complete the following sentences with an appropriate subordinating conjunction:
1. She went to the market ______ she needed groceries.
2. ______ it was raining, they decided to go for a walk.
3. I will call you ______ I arrive at the airport.
4. He can borrow the book ______ he returns it on time.
5. They moved to the city ______ they could find better jobs.
2. Sentence Combining
Combine the following pairs of sentences using a suitable subordinating conjunction:
1. She was tired. She went to bed early.
2. He studied hard. He wanted to pass the exam.
3. It was raining. They went outside.
4. You can come to the party. You are invited.
5. I will wait here. You come back.
3. Correct the Mistakes
Identify and correct the mistakes in the following sentences:
1. She didn’t go to the party, although she was feeling ill.
2. He stayed home because it was raining.
3. When you arrive please call me.
4. I’ll go to the beach if, it’s sunny.
5. Since I was late. I missed the meeting.
Conclusion
Mastering subordinating conjunctions is a vital step in achieving fluency in English. These small but powerful words help in constructing complex sentences that convey detailed and nuanced meanings. By understanding the different types of subordinating conjunctions and how to use them correctly, language learners can enhance their writing and speaking skills significantly.
Remember to practice regularly and pay attention to the context in which each subordinating conjunction is used. With time and effort, you will find yourself using these conjunctions naturally and effectively, adding depth and sophistication to your English communication.
