In the journey of mastering English, understanding how to properly use subordinating conjunctions can significantly enhance your writing and speaking skills. Subordinating conjunctions are key players in creating complex sentences, which in turn can make your language more nuanced and expressive. This article will delve into what subordinating conjunctions are, their roles in a sentence, and how to use them effectively.
What Are Subordinating Conjunctions?
Subordinating conjunctions are words that connect an independent clause (a complete sentence) with a dependent clause (a group of words that cannot stand alone as a complete sentence). The purpose of these conjunctions is to show the relationship between the two clauses, indicating time, cause, condition, contrast, purpose, or result. Some common subordinating conjunctions include: although, because, since, unless, while, and if.
For example:
– “I will go to the store because I need to buy milk.”
– “She stayed up late although she was very tired.”
In these sentences, the subordinating conjunctions “because” and “although” introduce the dependent clauses and link them to the main clauses, adding depth and detail to the sentences.
Types of Subordinating Conjunctions
Subordinating conjunctions can be categorized based on the type of relationship they indicate between the clauses. Here are some of the main categories:
1. Cause and Effect
These conjunctions show a cause-and-effect relationship between two clauses. Common examples include because, since, and so that.
– “I didn’t go to the party because I was feeling sick.”
– “She took an umbrella since it was raining.”
2. Time
Time conjunctions indicate when something happens in relation to something else. Examples include when, while, before, after, and until.
– “He called me when he arrived.”
– “You should finish your homework before you go out.”
3. Condition
These conjunctions are used to show that one clause is dependent on another. Common examples include if, unless, and provided that.
– “You can go to the party if you finish your homework.”
– “I won’t go unless you come with me.”
4. Contrast
Contrast conjunctions highlight differences between two clauses. Examples include although, even though, and whereas.
– “She loves coffee, although it makes her jittery.”
– “He is very tall, whereas his brother is quite short.”
5. Purpose
Purpose conjunctions show the intention behind an action. Examples include so that, in order to, and lest.
– “He studies hard so that he can get good grades.”
– “She left early in order to catch the bus.”
6. Place
Place conjunctions indicate the location of an action. Examples include where and wherever.
– “She sits where she can see the board clearly.”
– “You can find him wherever there is music.”
How to Use Subordinating Conjunctions Effectively
Using subordinating conjunctions correctly involves understanding the structure and punctuation of complex sentences. Here are some tips to help you use them effectively:
1. Position of Clauses
The dependent clause can either come before or after the independent clause. If the dependent clause comes first, it is usually followed by a comma. If the independent clause comes first, a comma is generally not needed.
– “Although it was raining, we decided to go for a walk.”
– “We decided to go for a walk although it was raining.”
Both sentences are correct, but the placement of the comma changes depending on the order of the clauses.
2. Avoiding Sentence Fragments
A common mistake when using subordinating conjunctions is creating sentence fragments. A dependent clause cannot stand alone as a sentence; it must be connected to an independent clause.
Incorrect: “Because I was tired.”
Correct: “I went to bed early because I was tired.”
3. Using Appropriate Conjunctions
Choose the subordinating conjunction that best fits the relationship you want to convey between the clauses. Each conjunction has a specific nuance, and using the right one can make your sentence more precise.
Incorrect: “I went to the store although I needed milk.”
Correct: “I went to the store because I needed milk.”
4. Maintaining Parallel Structure
When using subordinating conjunctions in sentences with multiple clauses, ensure that the structure of each clause is parallel. This means that each clause should follow the same grammatical pattern.
Incorrect: “She likes running, to swim, and biking.”
Correct: “She likes running, swimming, and biking.”
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Even advanced English learners can make mistakes with subordinating conjunctions. Here are some common errors and tips on how to avoid them:
1. Overusing Subordinating Conjunctions
While subordinating conjunctions are useful, overusing them can make your writing seem cluttered and difficult to follow. Use them sparingly and only when they add clarity or emphasis.
Incorrect: “She was late because she missed the bus because she woke up late because her alarm didn’t go off.”
Correct: “She was late because she missed the bus, which happened because her alarm didn’t go off.”
2. Misplacing Conjunctions
Ensure that the subordinating conjunction is placed correctly to convey the intended meaning. Misplacement can lead to confusion or a change in meaning.
Incorrect: “She will come to the meeting unless it rains heavily.”
Correct: “She will not come to the meeting unless it rains heavily.”
3. Mixing Up Conjunctions
Different subordinating conjunctions serve different purposes. Mixing them up can change the meaning of your sentence. Familiarize yourself with their specific uses.
Incorrect: “I will call you although I get home.”
Correct: “I will call you when I get home.”
Advanced Uses of Subordinating Conjunctions
For those who are more advanced in their English studies, subordinating conjunctions can be used to create more sophisticated and nuanced sentences. Here are some advanced tips:
1. Using Correlative Subordinating Conjunctions
Correlative conjunctions work in pairs to join equal elements in a sentence. Examples include not only…but also, and neither…nor.
– “She is not only intelligent but also hardworking.”
– “He is neither interested in sports nor in music.”
2. Combining Multiple Subordinating Conjunctions
In more complex sentences, you can use multiple subordinating conjunctions to connect several clauses. This can add depth and detail to your writing.
– “Because she was feeling ill, she didn’t go to the party, although she really wanted to.”
– “If you finish your homework and if you clean your room, you can go out to play.”
3. Using Subordinating Conjunctions in Formal Writing
In formal writing, subordinating conjunctions can help create complex sentences that are more precise and detailed. This is especially useful in academic writing, reports, and formal letters.
– “The experiment was successful because the variables were controlled carefully.”
– “The project will proceed provided that we receive the necessary funding.”
4. Avoiding Redundancy
Ensure that your use of subordinating conjunctions does not create redundancy. Each conjunction should add something new to the sentence.
Incorrect: “Because of the fact that she was tired, she went to bed early.”
Correct: “Because she was tired, she went to bed early.”
Practicing with Subordinating Conjunctions
To master the use of subordinating conjunctions, practice is essential. Here are some exercises to help you get started:
1. Sentence Combining
Combine the following pairs of sentences using appropriate subordinating conjunctions:
– “She was hungry. She didn’t eat.”
– “It was raining. We went for a walk.”
– “He studied hard. He wanted to pass the exam.”
Answers:
– “Although she was hungry, she didn’t eat.”
– “Even though it was raining, we went for a walk.”
– “He studied hard because he wanted to pass the exam.”
2. Fill in the Blanks
Fill in the blanks with the correct subordinating conjunction:
– “________ it was late, she decided to go out.”
– “I will go to the store ________ I need to buy milk.”
– “You can go out to play ________ you finish your homework.”
Answers:
– “Although it was late, she decided to go out.”
– “I will go to the store because I need to buy milk.”
– “You can go out to play if you finish your homework.”
3. Sentence Correction
Correct the following sentences:
– “She will call you although she gets home.”
– “I went to bed early because I was tired, because I had a long day.”
– “We can go to the park unless it rains.”
Answers:
– “She will call you when she gets home.”
– “I went to bed early because I was tired after a long day.”
– “We can go to the park if it doesn’t rain.”
Conclusion
Understanding and using subordinating conjunctions effectively is a vital skill for any language learner. These conjunctions allow you to create complex, nuanced sentences that convey precise meanings. By practicing regularly and being mindful of common mistakes, you can master the use of subordinating conjunctions and elevate your English language skills.
Remember, the key to mastering subordinating conjunctions, like any other aspect of language learning, is consistent practice and application. Use the tips and exercises provided in this article to enhance your understanding and make your writing and speaking more sophisticated and effective. Happy learning!
