Subordinating conjunctions introduce dependent clauses, which depend on the main clause to make complete sense. “Since” is one such subordinating conjunction that expresses a relationship of time, cause, or reason. It is used to connect two clauses, with the dependent clause typically appearing first. The concept of “since” as a subordinating conjunction is closely tied to dependent clauses, time relationships, causation, and reasoning.
Since: A Powerhouse Subordinating Conjunction
“Since” is a handy subordinating conjunction that adds depth and nuance to your writing. Here’s a crash course on its structure and usage:
1. Basic Structure
“Since” is typically used to connect a dependent clause (subordinate clause) that provides additional information or reason to an independent clause (main clause).
Example:
Main Clause: I was late for work.
Dependent Clause (with "since"): Since I overslept.
Combined: I was late for work since I overslept.
2. Placement
“Since” usually comes at the beginning of the dependent clause, but it can also be placed in the middle or end.
Example:
Beginning: Since I had already finished my project, I went home early.
Middle: I went home early, since I had already finished my project.
End: I had already finished my project, since I went home early.
3. Time vs. Reason
“Since” can express both time and reason.
- Time: When “since” is used to indicate a time frame, it’s often followed by a specific time or event.
Example:
“I haven’t seen her since the party.”
- Reason: When “since” is used to provide a reason or explanation, it’s often followed by a logical or causal statement.
Example:
“I’m calling since I have a question about your services.”
4. Table of Usage
| Usage | Example |
|---|---|
| Time | I’ve been driving since early this morning. |
| Reason | I’m tired since I didn’t sleep well last night. |
| Causal | The car broke down since it hadn’t been serviced recently. |
| Contrast | I wanted to go to the beach, but since it was raining, we stayed home. |
5. Punctuation
“Since” clauses can be separated by a comma if they’re grammatically complete and provide additional information.
Example:
“My parents are coming over tonight, since they’re in town for the weekend.”
6. Avoid the Consecutive “Since” Issue
Be careful not to use “since” too many times in a row, as it can make your writing sound repetitive and awkward.
Example:
“I haven’t seen him since yesterday since he moved away.” (Awkward)
“I haven’t seen him since he moved away.” (Better)
Question 1:
What is the grammatical function of “since” in a sentence?
Answer:
“Since” is a subordinating conjunction that introduces a subordinate clause. A subordinate clause is a group of words that cannot stand alone as a complete sentence. It is dependent on the main clause for its meaning. In the sentence “I have been working since 8 a.m.”, “since 8 a.m.” is a subordinate clause introduced by the subordinating conjunction “since”.
Question 2:
How does “since” affect the meaning of a sentence?
Answer:
“Since” indicates that the event or action in the subordinate clause began in the past and is still continuing at the time of the main clause. In the sentence “I have been working since 8 a.m.”, the use of “since” implies that the speaker started working at 8 a.m. and is still working at the time of speaking.
Question 3:
What are some common grammatical structures used with “since”?
Answer:
“Since” is typically followed by a noun phrase (e.g., “since the beginning of the year”), a prepositional phrase (e.g., “since before the pandemic”), or a “when” clause (e.g., “since when you left”). In each case, the subordinate clause provides additional information about the time frame or circumstances surrounding the event or action described in the main clause.
Thanks a bunch for stickin’ with me through all that grammar mumbo jumbo! I know it can be a bit of a brain twister, but I hope I’ve made it a wee bit easier to wrap your head around. If you’re still feeling a bit lost, feel free to pop by again later and ask any questions you might have. I’m always happy to help a fellow grammar nerd out!