English is a language like any other, with a rich and complex tapestry. Its structure conceals nuanced details and minute distinctions that, if missed, can cause us to express ourselves ineffectively. As, because, and since are masterful trio of subordinating conjunctions that weave together our ideas by connecting causes to their effects. By figuring out the complexities of these conjunctive strands, we may give our writing more depth and clarity and, ultimately, have the impact we want.
In this blog post, we’ll look at these three subordinating conjunctions and how to employ them in sentences to improve the English language.
Let’s examine the word “because” first.
English uses the word “because” most frequently to provide an explanation. The subordinating conjunction “because” is employed when describing the rationale behind anything. It joins a dependent clause to an independent clause by having the dependent clause justify the condition or conduct described in the independent clause.
For example:
I can’t go out today because I have to finish my project.
He was late for work because he missed her train.
In each of these instances, the independent clause’s independent clause (followed by “because”) provides the justification for the action.
“Because” sentences are focused more on the cause than the outcome.
For example,
She arrived late to school today because of the heavy traffic. The aim of the sentence is to give an explanation for her tardiness.
Using “because” in the middle of a statement is more frequent than at the beginning. It sounds more natural to say, “I can’t come to the gym because I’m sick,” as opposed to, “Because I’m sick, I can’t come to the gym.”
But you can use “because” at the start of a statement, frequently in a slightly more official setting. Example: Because of the success of our fundraising, we can now afford to refurbish the library.
If you’re putting up an idea for an answer, you can use the word “because” in your inquiry.
Example: Are you going on vacation because you’re so stressed out?”
Additionally, a word or pronoun may be used following “because of.” When the explanation may be inferred simply from hearing the noun, we are able to do this.
Example: We didn’t go to the party because of the heavy snow
Because of him, I don’t want to participate in the event.
“Since” is a subordinating conjunction that denotes a cause-and-effect relationship. It is similar to “because,” but “since” emphasizes an action’s outcome more so than its motivation.
For example:
Since it’s raining, we should bring a raincoat.
She has been exercising regularly since she started her new job.
In these instances, the independent clause’s position is explained by the dependent clause (which comes after “since”).
“Since” is a phrase we employ to discuss the past. “Since” is a preposition that we employ before a date, a time, or a noun:
Examples:
It was his first live performance since September 1991. (since + date)
I have been happily living here for 35 years, since the age of 23. (since + noun phrase)
Additionally, “since” is used as a conjunction to start a subordinate clause:
It’s so long since I saw her. (since + clause)
She’s been back to work a few times since she retired. (since + clause)
When the subject of the verb is the same in both the main clause and the supporting clause, we can use since + -ing form to indicate that time:
Examples:
Since leaving his permanent job, he has had three or four temporary jobs. (Since he left his permanent job, he has …)
Since moving from New York to Florida a few months ago, I’ve learned how to swim. (Since I moved …, I’ve learned …
When two events occur at once, the subordinating conjunction “as” is used to show this. It is frequently used to demonstrate a cause-and-effect relationship. It can also be used to demonstrate concurrent actions or events.
For example:
As she was running late, she took a taxi to work.
He listened to music as he worked on his project.
In these examples, the action or event that is concurrent with the action or event in the independent clause is described in the dependent clause (followed by “as”).
As can be used as an alternative to “while”
Example: As the last phase of the game drew on, the crowd became noisier and noisier.
Since and because can also be substituted with as.
Example: You should be careful going to the running, as your knee is still a little weak.
As also has a meaning similar to “in the manner of.” The word “just” may be used to emphasize this.
Example: I wrote my essay with six paragraphs, just as my teacher told me to do in the instructions.
Because they effectively join ideas in sentences, subordinating conjunctions like “because,” “since,” and “as” are valuable tools. They aid in establishing a fluid and logical writing flow that makes it simpler for readers to comprehend your idea. By becoming an expert in using these conjunctions, you can improve the quality of your writing and the way you convey your ideas.
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