What is Subordination in English?
Subordination is a grammatical term that refers to the relationship between clauses in a sentence. In simple terms, it is the way in which one clause depends on another within a sentence. The clause that depends on the other is called the subordinate clause, and the clause that it depends on is called the main clause. Understanding subordination is essential for effective communication in English.
Types of Subordination
There are two types of subordination in English: adverbial and adjectival.
Adverbial Subordination
Adverbial subordination occurs when a subordinate clause functions as an adverb within the sentence. This means that it modifies the verb in the main clause, providing additional information about time, place, reason, or condition. For example:
- After I finish my homework, I will watch TV. (time)
- She went to the store because she needed milk. (reason)
- If it rains tomorrow, we will stay inside. (condition)
Adjectival Subordination
Adjectival subordination occurs when a subordinate clause functions as an adjective within the sentence. This means that it modifies a noun or pronoun in the main clause, providing additional information about it. For example:
- The book that I read last night was really good. (modifying "book")
- The person who called me earlier was my boss. (modifying "person")
- The restaurant where we ate dinner was very expensive. (modifying "restaurant")
Subordinating Conjunctions
Subordinating conjunctions are words that are used to introduce subordinate clauses. These words help to show the relationship between the subordinate clause and the main clause. Some common subordinating conjunctions include:
- After
- Although
- As
- Because
- Before
- If
- Since
- That
- Unless
- Until
- When
- Where
- While
Importance of Subordination in Writing
Subordination is an essential aspect of writing clear and concise sentences. It allows writers to provide additional information and details, making their writing more interesting and informative. Additionally, subordination helps to create a logical flow of ideas within a sentence, making it easier for readers to follow and understand the writer's message. Without subordination, sentences can become confusing and difficult to read, leading to a breakdown in communication.
Conclusion
In conclusion, subordination is a crucial aspect of English grammar that helps to create clear and meaningful sentences. By understanding the different types of subordination and the role of subordinating conjunctions, writers can improve their communication skills and create more effective writing.