Subordinating conjunctions are essential components in English grammar that help connect ideas, making sentences more complex and nuanced. They link a dependent clause to an independent clause, indicating a relationship between the two. Understanding and using subordinating conjunctions correctly can significantly enhance your writing and speaking skills, making your communication more precise and coherent. This article aims to explore the world of subordinating conjunctions in depth, providing examples, usage tips, and common pitfalls to avoid.
What Are Subordinating Conjunctions?
Subordinating conjunctions are words or phrases 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. In contrast, an independent clause can stand alone as a sentence because it expresses a complete thought.
Some common subordinating conjunctions include: although, because, since, unless, while, after, before, if, and when. These words help indicate the nature of the relationship between the two clauses, such as cause and effect, contrast, condition, or time.
Example:
– Independent clause: “I went to bed early.”
– Dependent clause: “Because I was tired.”
Combined sentence: “I went to bed early because I was tired.”
In this example, “because” is the subordinating conjunction that links the dependent clause to the independent clause, explaining the reason for going to bed early.
Types of Subordinating Conjunctions
Subordinating conjunctions can be categorized based on the type of relationship they indicate between the clauses. Here are some common categories:
1. Cause and Effect
These subordinating conjunctions explain the reason or cause of an action. Common examples include because, since, as, and so that.
Examples:
– “She stayed home because she was sick.”
– “I will help you since you asked nicely.”
– “As it was raining, we canceled the picnic.”
– “He studied hard so that he could pass the exam.”
2. Contrast
These conjunctions highlight a contrast or difference between two ideas. Common examples include although, though, even though, whereas, and while.
Examples:
– “Although it was cold, we went for a walk.”
– “He loves coffee, whereas she prefers tea.”
– “Even though she was tired, she finished her work.”
– “While I like reading, my brother enjoys playing video games.”
3. Condition
These conjunctions introduce a condition that must be met for the action in the main clause to occur. Common examples include if, unless, provided that, and as long as.
Examples:
– “If it rains, we will stay indoors.”
– “You can go out unless you have homework to do.”
– “Provided that you finish your chores, you can watch TV.”
– “We will succeed as long as we work together.”
4. Time
These conjunctions indicate a time relationship between the clauses. Common examples include when, while, before, after, until, and as soon as.
Examples:
– “We will start the meeting when everyone arrives.”
– “She read a book while waiting for the bus.”
– “Finish your homework before you go out to play.”
– “He went to bed after he finished his project.”
– “Wait here until I come back.”
– “Call me as soon as you get home.”
5. Purpose
These conjunctions indicate the purpose of an action. Common examples include so that, in order that, and lest.
Examples:
– “He saved money so that he could buy a new car.”
– “She studied hard in order that she might get a scholarship.”
– “Take an umbrella lest it should rain.”
Common Pitfalls and Tips
Using subordinating conjunctions correctly can be challenging, especially for language learners. Here are some common pitfalls and tips to help you avoid them:
1. Misplacing the Conjunction
One common mistake is placing the subordinating conjunction incorrectly within the sentence. The conjunction should always introduce the dependent clause.
Incorrect: “He went to bed, because he was tired early.”
Correct: “He went to bed early because he was tired.”
2. Punctuation Errors
When the dependent clause comes before the independent clause, a comma is needed to separate the two clauses. When the independent clause comes first, no comma is necessary.
Examples:
– “Because she was tired, she went to bed early.” (Comma needed)
– “She went to bed early because she was tired.” (No comma needed)
3. Using the Wrong Conjunction
Using the wrong subordinating conjunction can change the meaning of the sentence or make it confusing. Make sure to choose the conjunction that accurately reflects the relationship between the clauses.
Incorrect: “He went to bed early although he was tired.” (This implies a contrast, which is incorrect here)
Correct: “He went to bed early because he was tired.”
4. Fragmented Sentences
A dependent clause cannot stand alone as a sentence. Ensure that your dependent clauses are always connected to an independent clause.
Incorrect: “Because I was tired.” (Fragment)
Correct: “I went to bed early because I was tired.”
Practical Exercises
To master the use of subordinating conjunctions, practice is essential. Here are some exercises to help you improve:
Exercise 1: Identify the Subordinating Conjunction
Read the following sentences and identify the subordinating conjunction in each:
1. “He didn’t go to the party because he was feeling unwell.”
2. “Although it was raining, they continued their hike.”
3. “You can borrow my book as long as you return it by Friday.”
4. “She waited until the bus arrived.”
5. “I will call you when I get home.”
Exercise 2: Combine the Sentences
Combine the following pairs of sentences using an appropriate subordinating conjunction:
1. “She was late for work. She missed the bus.”
2. “He studied very hard. He wanted to pass the exam.”
3. “We will go for a walk. It stops raining.”
4. “She enjoys reading. Her brother likes playing video games.”
5. “You should eat breakfast. You leave for school.”
Exercise 3: Correct the Errors
Correct the errors in the following sentences:
1. “He left the party early, because he wasn’t feeling well.”
2. “You can go out unless, you finish your homework.”
3. “Although she was tired. She finished her work.”
4. “She went to bed early, because she was tired.”
5. “If it rains. We will stay indoors.”
Advanced Usage and Variations
Once you are comfortable with basic subordinating conjunctions, you can explore more advanced usage and variations, such as:
1. Correlative Conjunctions
Some subordinating conjunctions work in pairs, known as correlative conjunctions. Examples include either…or, neither…nor, and not only…but also.
Examples:
– “Either you finish your homework or you cannot go out to play.”
– “She is neither a doctor nor a nurse.”
– “Not only did he finish his project, but he also helped his classmates.”
2. Conjunctive Adverbs
Conjunctive adverbs, such as however, therefore, and moreover, can also link ideas and indicate relationships between clauses. They are often used with a semicolon.
Examples:
– “He was tired; however, he continued working.”
– “She missed the bus; therefore, she was late for work.”
– “The project was challenging; moreover, it was due in a week.”
3. Complex Sentences with Multiple Subordinating Conjunctions
You can create complex sentences by using multiple subordinating conjunctions to connect more than two clauses.
Example:
– “Although it was raining, we went for a walk because we needed some fresh air.”
Conclusion
Subordinating conjunctions play a crucial role in English grammar by linking dependent and independent clauses, thereby adding depth and complexity to sentences. Mastering their use can enhance your writing and speaking skills, making your communication more effective and nuanced. By understanding the different types of subordinating conjunctions, avoiding common pitfalls, and practicing regularly, you can become proficient in using these essential grammatical tools.
Remember, the key to mastering subordinating conjunctions is practice. Regularly incorporate them into your writing and speaking, and soon, you will find that they become a natural part of your linguistic repertoire. Happy learning!
