Here's a breakdown:
1. Dependent Clause: A dependent clause cannot stand alone as a complete sentence because it lacks a subject and a verb that can form a complete thought.
2. Independent Clause: An independent clause can stand alone as a complete sentence because it contains a subject and a verb that express a complete thought.
3. Subordinating Connectives: These words or phrases act like bridges, connecting the dependent clause to the independent clause. They signal the relationship between the two clauses.
Examples of Subordinating Connectives:
Time:
* After I finished my homework, I played video games.
* Before we went to the store, we made a list.
* When the bell rang, the students left the classroom.
* Since I was tired, I decided to go to bed early.
* While I was eating dinner, my phone rang.
Cause and Effect:
* Because it was raining, we stayed inside.
* Since I was late, I missed the bus.
* As I was walking home, I saw a dog.
* So I was tired, I went to bed early.
Contrast:
* Although I was tired, I went to the party.
* Even though it was raining, I went for a walk.
* While the food was delicious, it was expensive.
* Whereas some people like to eat spicy food, others do not.
Condition:
* If you study hard, you will pass the test.
* Unless you work hard, you won't succeed.
* In case it rains, bring an umbrella.
* Provided that you finish your work, you can go home.
Other Subordinating Connectives:
* Where
* Wherever
* Whenever
* That
* Who
* Whom
* Whose
* Which
* What
Key Points:
* Subordinating connectives always introduce a dependent clause.
* They create a logical connection between the clauses.
* They help to create complex sentences.
By understanding how to use subordinating connectives, you can write more sophisticated and nuanced sentences.