Subordination
Subordination is the process of joining two clauses in a sentence where one depends on the other for meaning. It creates a main (independent) clause and a subordinate (dependent) clause using subordinating conjunctions.
Structure of Subordination
- Main Clause + Subordinating Conjunction + Subordinate Clause
- Example: She stayed inside because it was raining.
Types of Subordinate Clauses
1. Adverbial Clauses (Modify verbs, adjectives, or other adverbs)
- Example: He left early because he was tired.
2. Adjective (Relative) Clauses (Modify nouns)
- Example: The book that you gave me is interesting.
3. Noun Clauses (Act as a noun in the sentence)
- Example: I know what she said.
Common Subordinating Conjunctions
- Time: when, before, after, while, until
- Reason: because, since, as
- Condition: if, unless, provided that
- Contrast: although, though, whereas
- Purpose: so that, in order that
Conclusion
Subordination helps in creating complex sentences by making one clause dependent on another, adding depth and clarity to communication.