Subordinating Clauses
A subordinating clause, also known as a subordinate or dependent clause, is a type of clause that cannot stand alone as a complete sentence because it lacks essential information to make sense on its own. Instead, it depends on a main clause (also called an independent clause) to provide the necessary context and meaning. Subordinating clauses are introduced by subordinating conjunctions, which establish a relationship of dependence between the subordinate clause and the main clause.
Here’s a breakdown of the components and functions of subordinating clauses, along with plenty of examples:
Components of a Subordinating Clause:
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Subordinating Conjunction: This is a word that introduces the subordinate clause and indicates the type of relationship it has with the main clause. Some common subordinating conjunctions include: because, although, while, if, since, before, after, unless, until, etc.
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Subordinate Clause: This is the part of the sentence that relies on the main clause to convey its complete meaning. It cannot stand alone as a sentence and functions as a unit within a larger sentence.
Functions of Subordinating Clauses:
Subordinating clauses can serve various functions within a sentence. Here are some common functions:
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Adverbial Function: Subordinating clauses can act like adverbs, modifying the verb in the main clause to provide information about time, place, reason, condition, manner, or contrast.
Example:
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Time: “She went to bed after she finished her homework.”
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Place: “He found the treasure where the map indicated.”
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Reason: “They canceled the picnic because it started raining.”
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Condition: “I’ll go for a walk if the weather improves.”
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Manner: “She danced as if she were floating on air.”
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Contrast: “Although it was cold, they went swimming.”
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Adjectival Function: Subordinating clauses can function as adjectives, providing additional information about the noun in the main clause.
Example:
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“The book that I’m reading is very interesting.”
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“She lives in the house where the old man used to live.”
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Noun Function: Subordinating clauses can also serve as nouns within a sentence, performing the role of a subject, object, or complement.
Example:
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Subject: “What she said doesn’t make sense.”
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Object: “He enjoys whatever makes him laugh.”
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Complement: “Her goal is to reach the point where she’s truly happy.”
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Examples of Subordinating Clauses:
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Adverbial Subordinating Clauses:
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Time: “She’ll call you when she gets home.”
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Place: “They built a treehouse where they could hide.”
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Reason: “He missed the meeting because his car broke down.”
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Condition: “I’ll go to the party if I finish my work.”
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Manner: “She danced as though she were on stage.”
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Adjectival Subordinating Clauses:
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“Whose dog is barking loudly?”
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“That is the cake which she baked last night.”
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“Where you live determines your lifestyle.”
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Noun Subordinating Clauses:
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Subject: “What he said shocked everyone.”
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Object: “She hates whatever involves spiders.”
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Complement: “Her wish is to find out why they left.”
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Remember that subordinating clauses add depth and complexity to sentences by providing additional information or context. They enhance your writing by allowing you to convey more intricate relationships between ideas.