Subordinating conjunctions
and transitions
Look at the examples of
subordinating conjunctions and
transitions .
Meaning
one thing causes
or is the result of
another
Subordinating
conjunctions
Transitions
because / since
Since the science of
investigating the
brain is quite new, no
theory of
intelligence has yet been
proved
therefore / consequently
Many companies believe
high IQs and
EQs are crucial factors
for success.
Therefore, they often
require
applicants to take IQ and
EQ tests.
one thing
contrasts with
another thing
(even) though / although
Some people have achieved
extraordinary successes, even
though
they don’t have high IQs.
however / nevertheless /
nonetheless
No theory of intelligence has yet
been
proved. Nonetheles s , many
institutions believe success
depends on
high IQs and EQs.
one thing will
occur only if a
specific condition
exists
unless
Unless a new theory emerges,
our
abilities will continue to be
measured
with IQ and EQ tests.
otherwise
He must have a high IQ.
Otherwise,
he wouldn’t have gotten that job.
one thing is a
condition for
another thing
as long as / if / only if /
provided that
You will get that job as long as
your
score on the IQ test is very high.
a condition that
doesn’ t matter
even if
One’s EQ can be high even i f
one’s IQ
is low.
Circle the letter of the best answer .
1. Which type of connecting word connects ideas within a sentence?
a. subordinating conjunction b. transition
2. Which type of connecting word connects ideas between
sentences or paragraphs?
a. subordinating conjunction b. transition
3. Which type of connecting word is always followed by a comma?
a. subordinating conjunction b. transition
4. Which of these connecting words are used to introduce a result?
a. unless / otherwise b. therefore / consequently
5. Which of these connecting words is used to introduce a
condition?
a. unless b. although
NOTE: However and therefore are sometimes used between the subject
and the verb.
In that case, they are set off by commas
FIGURE IT OUT…
Check the correctly punctuated sentence.
􀀁 a. The IQ test however can be an accurate measure of intelligence only if
there is a general intelligence.
􀀁 b. The IQ test, however, can be an accurate measure of intelligence only if
there is a general intelligence
REMEMBER: Subordinating conjunctions introduce dependent clauses. If a
dependent clause begins a sentence or shows contrast , use a comma
Check the correctly punctuated sentences.
1. a. Even if one’s IQ is low, one’s EQ can be high.
􀀁 b. Even if one’s IQ is low one’s EQ can be high.
2. a. One’s EQ can be high, even if one’s IQ is low.
􀀁 b. One’s EQ can be high even if one’s IQ is low