Subordinating Conjunctions

Definition

Subordinating conjunctions are words that connect an independent clause with a dependent clause, creating complex sentences that show a relationship between the two ideas. They help clarify the meaning of a sentence by indicating conditions, reasons, time, contrast, and other relationships. Common subordinating conjunctions include 'although,' 'because,' 'since,' and 'while,' which add depth and complexity to writing.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Subordinating conjunctions introduce dependent clauses, which provide additional information but cannot function independently.
2. The use of subordinating conjunctions helps to create more complex sentence structures, allowing for richer expression and clearer relationships between ideas.
3. Subordinating conjunctions can express various relationships, including cause and effect, time, contrast, and conditions.
4. When using subordinating conjunctions, the dependent clause can appear at the beginning or end of the sentence; however, if it starts the sentence, a comma is typically needed after it.
5. Using subordinating conjunctions effectively can enhance writing by improving flow and coherence, connecting ideas in a meaningful way.

Review Questions

• How do subordinating conjunctions function in a sentence to connect independent and dependent clauses?
  • Subordinating conjunctions function by linking an independent clause to a dependent clause, which adds meaning or context to the main idea. For example, in the sentence 'Although it was raining, we went for a walk,' the subordinating conjunction 'although' connects the dependent clause to the independent clause. This relationship shows that the action in the independent clause occurred despite the condition stated in the dependent clause.
• Discuss the importance of using subordinating conjunctions in enhancing sentence structure and clarity in writing.
  • Using subordinating conjunctions is crucial for enhancing sentence structure because they allow writers to create complex sentences that convey nuanced relationships between ideas. By connecting independent and dependent clauses, these conjunctions enable authors to clarify causes, reasons, contrasts, and conditions. This leads to clearer and more coherent writing as readers can understand how different pieces of information relate to one another.
• Evaluate how varying the use of subordinating conjunctions can impact the tone and style of writing across different genres.
  • Varying the use of subordinating conjunctions can significantly impact the tone and style of writing by altering sentence complexity and rhythm. In formal writing or academic contexts, strategic use of subordinating conjunctions can convey sophistication and depth of thought. Conversely, in creative writing or dialogue, an abundance of simple sentences with fewer subordinating conjunctions might create a more casual or urgent tone. Thus, understanding how to manipulate these conjunctions allows writers to adapt their style effectively to their intended audience and purpose.

Related terms

Independent Clause:

A group of words that can stand alone as a complete sentence, containing a subject and a predicate.

Dependent Clause:

A group of words that cannot stand alone as a complete sentence and relies on an independent clause to convey a complete thought.

Coordinating Conjunctions:

Words that connect two or more independent clauses of equal importance, such as 'and,' 'but,' and 'or.'