A subordinate clause, also known as a dependent clause, is a clause that cannot stand alone as a complete sentence. It must be combined with an independent clause to form a complete sentence. Subordinate clauses are typically introduced by subordinate conjunction words, also known as subordinating conjunctions. These words signal that the clause that follows is dependent on the independent clause for its meaning.
Some common subordinate conjunction words include "because," "since," "after," "although," "as," "as if," "as long as," "as though," "before," "even if," "even though," "if," "in order that," "once," "provided that," "than," "that," "though," "unless," "until," and "when." These words help to establish a relationship between the subordinate clause and the independent clause.
For example, consider the sentence "I will go to the store if I have enough money." In this sentence, "if I have enough money" is a subordinate clause because it cannot stand alone as a complete sentence. It is introduced by the subordinating conjunction "if," and it depends on the independent clause "I will go to the store" for its meaning.
Subordinate clauses can be used to provide additional information, clarify the meaning of the independent clause, or to introduce a condition or a contrast. They can be placed at the beginning, middle, or end of a sentence, depending on the desired emphasis and structure.
For example, consider the sentence "Although I am tired, I will finish the project tonight." In this sentence, the subordinate clause "Although I am tired" is placed at the beginning of the sentence and introduces a contrast to the independent clause "I will finish the project tonight."
In contrast, consider the sentence "I will finish the project tonight, even though I am tired." In this sentence, the subordinate clause "even though I am tired" is placed at the end of the sentence and provides additional information about the independent clause "I will finish the project tonight."
Subordinate clauses can also be used to introduce conditions or qualifications. For example, consider the sentence "I will go to the store if I have enough money." In this sentence, the subordinate clause "if I have enough money" introduces a condition that must be met for the action in the independent clause to occur.
In conclusion, subordinate clauses are an important part of English grammar, and they are introduced by subordinate conjunction words such as "because," "if," and "although." These clauses provide additional information, clarify the meaning of the independent clause, or introduce a condition or a contrast. They can be placed at the beginning, middle, or end of a sentence, depending on the desired emphasis and structure.