Understanding Subordinating Conjunctions
Subordinating conjunctions join a dependent clause (which can't stand alone) to an independent clause (which can). They show the relationship between the two clauses, like:
* Cause and Effect: *because, since, as*
* Time: *when, while, before, after, as soon as*
* Contrast: *although, though, even though*
* Condition: *if, unless, whether*
* Purpose: *so that, in order that*
* Comparison: *as, than*
How to Choose the Right Conjunction:
1. Identify the Relationship: What is the connection between the two sentences you want to combine? Are they showing cause and effect, time, contrast, etc.?
2. Choose the Appropriate Conjunction: Select a conjunction that accurately reflects the relationship you've identified.
3. Placement: The dependent clause can usually be placed either before or after the independent clause, but be mindful of the flow and clarity of your sentence.
Examples:
* Original Sentences: The sun was shining. We decided to go for a walk.
* Combined with "because": *Because the sun was shining, we decided to go for a walk.*
* Combined with "when": *When the sun was shining, we decided to go for a walk.*
Tips for Combining Sentences:
* Vary Conjunctions: Don't always use the same subordinating conjunction. This can make your writing repetitive.
* Sentence Length: Keep combined sentences concise. Long, complex sentences can be difficult to read.
* Clarity and Flow: Make sure the combined sentence reads smoothly and clearly conveys the intended meaning.
Remember:
The best way to combine sentences with a subordinating conjunction is to choose the conjunction that accurately reflects the relationship between the two clauses and ensures the sentence is clear, concise, and flows well.