In everyday communication and formal writing, ideas are not always presented equally. Some thoughts are more central, while others support or elaborate on them. This relationship between main and supporting ideas is often expressed through a linguistic structure known as subordination. Understanding subordination is crucial in mastering grammar, enhancing clarity, and crafting more sophisticated sentences. It plays a key role in both written and spoken language, allowing for complex expressions of time, reason, contrast, condition, and more.
Definition of Subordination
Subordination is a grammatical process where one clause is made dependent on another. In other words, instead of having two or more independent clauses (which can stand alone as complete sentences), one clause becomes the main clause, and the other becomes a subordinate or dependent clause.
The subordinate clause provides additional information but cannot stand alone. It relies on the main clause for its full meaning. Subordination is used to create compound-complex or complex sentences that improve flow and logic in writing or speech.
Examples of Subordination
To better understand subordination, look at these examples
- Although it was raining, we went for a walk.
- She studied hardbecause she wanted to pass the exam.
- We stayed indoorssince it was cold outside.
In each example, the italicized clause is subordinate. It adds context but cannot be used alone as a complete sentence.
Types of Subordinate Clauses
There are three main types of subordinate clauses in English grammar
1. Adverbial Clauses
Adverbial clauses function like adverbs. They modify verbs, adjectives, or other adverbs and usually answer questions such as when, where, why, how, and under what condition.
- When the movie ended, we went home.
- I’ll call youif I need help.
2. Adjective Clauses
Also called relative clauses, these describe or give more information about a noun or pronoun in the main clause. They often begin with relative pronouns such as who, whom, which, or that.
- The bookthat you gave mewas interesting.
- She is the studentwho won the scholarship.
3. Noun Clauses
Noun clauses function as nouns. They can serve as the subject, object, or complement of a sentence.
- What she saidsurprised everyone.
- They didn’t knowthat he had left.
Common Subordinating Conjunctions
Subordinate clauses are usually introduced by subordinating conjunctions. These words help signal that a clause is dependent and show the relationship between the clauses. Here are some common ones
- Timeafter, before, while, when, since, until
- Cause or reasonbecause, since, as
- Conditionif, unless, provided that
- Contrast or concessionalthough, even though, whereas
- Purposeso that, in order that
Why Subordination Matters
Using subordination allows writers and speakers to
- Clarify relationshipsShow how ideas are connected, such as cause and effect or time sequence.
- Add depthProvide background, explanations, or reasoning without breaking the flow of a sentence.
- Reduce repetitionCombine information in one sentence instead of multiple shorter ones.
- Improve sentence varietyAvoid monotonous repetition of simple sentence structures.
Subordination vs. Coordination
It’s important to distinguish subordination from coordination. In coordination, two or more clauses of equal importance are joined together, usually with coordinating conjunctions likeand,but, oror.
Example of coordination
- She was tired,butshe kept working.
Example of subordination
- Although she was tired, she kept working.
In the second sentence, the idea of being tired is presented as background information, highlighting the importance of her continuing to work.
Avoiding Common Errors with Subordination
Writers often make mistakes when using subordinate clauses. Some of the most frequent include
1. Sentence Fragments
A subordinate clause without a main clause becomes a sentence fragment.
- IncorrectBecause I was late.
- CorrectBecause I was late, I missed the meeting.
2. Misplaced Subordinate Clauses
When the subordinate clause is misplaced, it may confuse readers or alter the meaning.
- Unclear I nearly saw ten carswhile walking to the store.
- Clear While walking to the store, I nearly saw ten cars.
3. Overuse of Subordination
While subordination enriches writing, overusing it can make sentences overly complex or difficult to read. Balance is key.
Using Subordination for Emphasis
Subordination can emphasize one part of a sentence over another. By placing less important or known information in the subordinate clause, the writer or speaker can focus the reader’s attention on what matters most.
For instance
- Although he failed the test, he remained optimistic.
The emphasis here is on his optimism, not on failing the test.
Subordination in Academic and Professional Writing
In academic and professional settings, subordination is often preferred to create logical arguments and avoid choppy, simple sentences. Academic writing values clarity and structure, and subordination helps link ideas with coherence and precision.
For example
- Instead of The results were surprising. We didn’t expect them.
- UseThe results were surprising because we didn’t expect them.
Subordination is a powerful tool in grammar that enables writers and speakers to connect ideas with clarity, logic, and style. By using subordinate clauses effectively, we can provide additional information, emphasize key points, and create more nuanced communication. Mastering subordination not only improves sentence structure but also enhances overall language fluency. Whether crafting essays, reports, or everyday conversations, understanding and applying subordination leads to more engaging and effective expression.