Subordination

Definition

Subordination refers to the grammatical relationship in which one clause or phrase is dependent on another, creating a hierarchy between ideas in a sentence. This structure allows for complex sentences that convey detailed information while maintaining clarity and coherence, enhancing the overall variety and flow of writing.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Subordination helps avoid run-on sentences by clearly defining the relationship between main and subordinate ideas.
2. Using subordination can improve the readability of writing, allowing for smoother transitions between thoughts and ideas.
3. Subordinate clauses can provide essential information or context to the main clause, adding richness to the text without overwhelming the reader.
4. Effective use of subordination can enhance the persuasive power of writing by emphasizing key points while providing supporting details.
5. In academic writing, subordination is crucial for developing complex arguments that require nuanced discussion and analysis.

Review Questions

• How does subordination contribute to sentence variety and complexity in writing?
  • Subordination plays a significant role in creating variety and complexity in writing by allowing writers to combine independent and dependent clauses. This combination leads to complex sentences that can express intricate ideas while maintaining clarity. By employing subordinating conjunctions, writers can create relationships between thoughts, which enhances the overall flow and coherence of their writing.
• What are some common subordinating conjunctions, and how do they function within a sentence?
  • Common subordinating conjunctions include 'although,' 'because,' 'since,' and 'while.' These words introduce dependent clauses that cannot stand alone as complete sentences. When used in a sentence, they establish a connection between the main clause and the subordinate clause, indicating how the ideas relate to one another, thereby enriching the text by adding context or detail.
• Evaluate how effective use of subordination can enhance persuasive writing, particularly in constructing arguments.
  • Effective use of subordination is vital in persuasive writing as it allows authors to craft complex arguments that present multiple layers of reasoning. By integrating subordinate clauses, writers can provide evidence or counterpoints that support their main claims without losing focus. This strategy not only clarifies the relationship between ideas but also engages readers by encouraging them to consider various perspectives within a structured framework, ultimately strengthening the writer's position.

Related terms

Dependent Clause: A group of words that contains a subject and a verb but cannot stand alone as a complete sentence, often introduced by subordinating conjunctions.

Subordinating Conjunction: Words such as 'although,' 'because,' and 'while' that connect an independent clause with a dependent clause, signaling the subordination of the latter.

Complex Sentence: A sentence that combines an independent clause with one or more dependent clauses, showcasing the use of subordination to add depth and detail.