Subordinating Conjunctions
* Definition: These conjunctions connect a dependent (subordinate) clause to an independent (main) clause. The dependent clause cannot stand alone as a complete sentence.
* Function: They show the relationship between the two clauses, such as cause and effect, time, contrast, or condition.
* Examples:
* Cause and Effect: *because, since, as*
* *We went home early because it was raining.*
* Time: *before, after, when, while, until, as soon as*
* *When the bell rings, we'll go to lunch.*
* Contrast: *although, though, even though, whereas*
* *Although it was cold, we still went for a walk.*
* Condition: *if, unless, whether*
* *If you study hard, you will pass the test.*
Coordinating Conjunctions
* Definition: These conjunctions connect two independent clauses (clauses that can stand alone as complete sentences) of equal grammatical rank.
* Function: They join the clauses together, showing a relationship of addition, contrast, or cause and effect.
* Examples:
* Addition: *and, also, too, furthermore*
* *We went to the store, and bought some groceries.*
* Contrast: *but, yet, however, still, nevertheless*
* *I wanted to go to the beach, but it was raining.*
* Cause and Effect: *so, for*
* *I was tired, so I went to bed early.*
Key Differences:
* Dependence: Subordinating conjunctions create a dependent clause, while coordinating conjunctions connect independent clauses.
* Punctuation: A comma is typically used before a coordinating conjunction joining two independent clauses, but not before a subordinating conjunction.
* Sentence Structure: Subordinating conjunctions create complex sentences, while coordinating conjunctions create compound sentences.
Remember: Conjunctions are essential for creating clear and logical sentences in writing. Understanding their differences will help you craft more sophisticated and effective sentences.