Lecture Notes: Subordinating Conjunctions

Introduction

• Topic: Subordinating Conjunctions
• Purpose: Enhance English writing skills, particularly useful for TOEFL or IELTS exams.
• Series: Part of a series on writing correct sentences in English.

Key Definitions

• Subordinating Conjunctions: Words that connect clauses and make sentences complex (e.g., if, because).
• Dependent Clause (DC): A clause that cannot stand alone and needs an independent clause.

Structure of Complex Sentences

• Formula:
  • Dependent Clause + Comma + Independent Clause
  • Independent Clause + Dependent Clause (no comma)
• Example: "When the pandemic is over, I will be happy." or "I will be happy when the pandemic is over."

Types of Subordinating Conjunctions

1. Contrast

   • Words: although, even though, though, while, whereas
   • Notes: 'While' and 'whereas' always need a comma before them.

2. Condition

   • Words: if, even if, unless, when
   • Example: "If treatments become available, we can relax more."

3. Reason

   • Words: because, since
   • Example: "Most people are getting vaccinated because the vaccines prevent severe illness."

4. Time

   • Words: after, before, as soon as, until, as long as, when, while, whenever
   • Example: "As long as COVID is spreading locally, people will continue to wear masks."

Common Mistakes

1. Wrong Conjunction

   • Ensure the conjunction used matches the intended meaning.

2. Forgetting the Comma

   • Always use a comma at the end of a dependent clause when it precedes the independent clause.

3. Using FANBOYS Too

   • Do not combine subordinating and coordinating conjunctions unnecessarily.
   • FANBOYS: for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so

4. Sentence Fragments

   • Avoid using a dependent clause as a standalone sentence.

5. Wrong Verb Tense

   • In conditional sentences, the dependent clause should be in simple present tense.

6. Comma Before 'Because'

   • Avoid placing a comma before 'because' as per English grammar rules.

Conclusion

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