Using Transition Words and Transitional Phrases with Subordinating Conjunctions

Complex Sentences A complex sentence adds a subordinate clause to a simple sentence. The subordinate clause is called a dependent clause, while the simple sentence is called the independent clause.

Subordinating Conjunctions Adjective clauses begin with these words: who, whom, which, that, whose, when, where Adverb clauses begin with these words: time: before, after, as soon as, since, until while, whenever reason: as, because, since condition: as if, even if, if, unless contrast: although, even though, despite the fact that, whereas purpose: in order that, so that manner: as if, as though

Complex Sentences Robert wanted to study at San Diego State. His parents preferred UCSD. While Robert wanted to study at San Diego State, his parents preferred UCSD. We ate a large lunch. We had skipped breakfast. Since we had skipped breakfast, we ate a large lunch. Computers are an important part of life. Some people in the world have never seen one. Even though computers are an important part of life, some people in the world have never seen one.

Transition Words A transition word can be used with a semicolon (;) to make clearer the relationship between the two sentences. Use to Show Transition Word result as a result, consequently, therefore, thus contrast however, on the other hand, nonetheless, nevertheless time before that, after that, meanwhile, afterward, first addition moreover, furthermore, in addition condition otherwise example for example, for instance

Transition Words You must use a semicolon (;) before the transition word and a comma (,) after the transition word to join one independent clause to another independent clause. For example: His first class begins at 8 AM; therefore, he leaves home at 7:30 AM to get there on time.

Practice I would like to take a geometry class. I haven’t met the prerequisites yet. Although I would like to take a geometry class, I haven’t met the prerequisites yet. Working part-time gives you more free time. You don’t earn as much money as full time workers do. Even though working part-time gives you more free time, you don’t earn as much money as full time workers do.

Practice I passed the math test. I spent all night studying for it. As a result of studying all night, I passed the math test. José didn’t study for the math test. He passed it anyway. José didn’t study for the math test; however, he passed it anyway. Use a semicolon!