A subordinate conjunction is a type of conjunction that connects a subordinate clause to an independent clause in a sentence. Subordinate clauses, also known as dependent clauses, are clauses that cannot stand alone as a complete sentence because they do not express a complete thought. They rely on an independent clause to complete their meaning. Subordinate conjunctions introduce the subordinate clause and indicate the relationship between the subordinate clause and the independent clause.
Types of Subordinate Conjunctions
There are several types of subordinate conjunctions, each with its own specific function. These include:
- Time subordinate conjunctions, such as after, before, since, until, and when, which indicate the time relationship between the clauses.
- Cause and effect subordinate conjunctions, such as because, since, and so that, which show the cause-and-effect relationship between the clauses.
- Condition subordinate conjunctions, such as if, unless, and in case, which indicate the conditions under which something happens or is true.
- Place subordinate conjunctions, such as where and wherever, which indicate the location of something.
- Purpose subordinate conjunctions, such as so that and
- Concession subordinate conjunctions, such as although, though, and despite, which indicate a contrast or unexpected situation.
Function of Subordinate Conjunctions
Subordinate conjunctions serve several functions in a sentence. They help to:
- Connect clauses: Subordinate conjunctions connect the subordinate clause to the independent clause, forming a complex sentence.
- Indicate relationships: They indicate the relationship between the clauses, such as time, cause and effect, condition, place, purpose, or concession.
- Provide additional information: Subordinate clauses provide additional information that enhances the meaning of the independent clause.
- Improve sentence structure: Subordinate conjunctions help to create more complex and interesting sentence structures, which can improve the clarity and effectiveness of writing or speech.
| Type of Subordinate Conjunction | Examples | Function |
|---|---|---|
| Time | after, before, since, until, when | Indicate time relationships |
| Cause and Effect | because, since, so that | Show cause-and-effect relationships |
| Condition | if, unless, in case | Indicate conditions |
| Place | where, wherever | Indicate locations |
| Purpose | so that, in order that | Indicate purposes or intentions |
| Concession | although, though, despite | Indicate contrasts or unexpected situations |
Examples of Subordinate Conjunctions in Sentences
Subordinate conjunctions are used in a variety of sentences to connect clauses and indicate relationships. Here are some examples:
The company will launch the new product after the marketing campaign is completed. (Time subordinate conjunction)
I went to the store because I needed to buy some milk. (Cause and effect subordinate conjunction)
If it rains, we will cancel the picnic. (Condition subordinate conjunction)
The new employee was hired so that the company could expand its operations. (Purpose subordinate conjunction)
I love reading books, although I don't have much time for it. (Concession subordinate conjunction)
What is the main function of a subordinate conjunction?
+The main function of a subordinate conjunction is to connect a subordinate clause to an independent clause and indicate the relationship between them.
What are the different types of subordinate conjunctions?
+There are several types of subordinate conjunctions, including time, cause and effect, condition, place, purpose, and concession subordinate conjunctions.
How do subordinate conjunctions improve sentence structure?
+Subordinate conjunctions help to create more complex and interesting sentence structures by connecting clauses and indicating relationships, which can improve the clarity and effectiveness of writing or speech.
