Mastering Subordinating Conjunctions
Subordinating conjunctions are essential for creating complex sentences by connecting dependent clauses to independent clauses. They establish relationships of time, cause, condition, contrast, and more between ideas.
What Subordinating Conjunctions Do
Ключевые характеристики:
- Always introduce a dependent (subordinate) clause
- Show the relationship between the dependent and independent clause
- Cannot stand alone - the dependent clause is not a complete sentence
- Can appear at the beginning or middle of a sentence
Примеры:
- Because it was raining, we stayed inside.
- We will eat when you arrive.
- Although he was tired, he finished the project.
Categories of Subordinating Conjunctions
| Отношение/Связь | Common Conjunctions | Примеры |
|---|---|---|
| Время | after, before, when, while, as, until, since, once, whenever | After we finish dinner, we'll watch a movie. |
| Cause/Reason | because, since, as, given that | She succeeded because she worked hard. |
| Condition | if, unless, provided that, in case, as long as | If it rains, we'll cancel the picnic. |
| Контраст | although, though, even though, whereas, while | Although it was expensive, it was worth it. |
| Назначение | so that, in order that | He left early so that he wouldn't be late. |
| Место | where, wherever | I'll go wherever you lead. |
| Образ действия | as if, as though | She acted as if nothing happened. |
Sentence Structure and Punctuation
1. Dependent Clause First
When the dependent clause comes before the independent clause, use a comma after it:
- Because I was tired, I went to bed early.
- After we finish eating, we'll do the dishes.
2. Independent Clause First
When the independent clause comes first, no comma is needed:
- I went to bed early because I was tired.
- We'll do the dishes after we finish eating.
Исключение:
When the dependent clause shows strong contrast (using 'although', 'though', 'even though'), a comma may be used even when it appears second for emphasis:
I enjoyed the movie, although it was quite long.
Special Cases and Common Errors
1. 'That' as a Subordinating Conjunction
The word 'that' often functions as a subordinating conjunction introducing noun clauses:
- I know that you're telling the truth.
- She believes that we should wait.
In many cases, 'that' can be omitted in informal English:
I know you're telling the truth.
2. 'While' for Time vs. Contrast
'While' can indicate either time or contrast - the meaning depends on context:
- While I was cooking, the phone rang. (time)
- While I understand your point, I disagree. (contrast)
3. 'Since' for Time vs. Reason
Similarly, 'since' can indicate either time or cause:
- Since 2010, I've lived in Paris. (time)
- Since you're here, let's begin. (reason)
Практические упражнения
1. Identify the Function
What relationship does each subordinating conjunction show?
- We'll start the meeting when everyone arrives.
- Unless you study, you won't pass the test.
- Although it was cold, we went swimming.
2. Correct the Punctuation
Add commas where needed:
- After we finish our work we'll go to the park.
- She can't come to the party because she's sick.
- Whereas I prefer tea my brother drinks only coffee.