Adverbial clauses are essential for adding depth, detail, and complexity to your writing and speaking. They provide crucial information about the circumstances surrounding the main action of a sentence, enriching the meaning and making your communication more precise.
Understanding adverbial clauses empowers you to express yourself with greater clarity and sophistication. This article is designed for English language learners of all levels, from beginners seeking to grasp the basics to advanced speakers aiming to refine their grammatical skills.
By the end of this comprehensive guide, you’ll be able to identify, construct, and effectively use adverbial clauses to enhance your English proficiency.
Table of Contents
- Definition of Adverbial Clauses
- Structural Breakdown
- Types of Adverbial Clauses
- Examples of Adverbial Clauses
- Usage Rules
- Common Mistakes
- Practice Exercises
- Advanced Topics
- FAQ
- Conclusion
Definition of Adverbial Clauses
An adverbial clause is a group of words that contains a subject and a verb and functions as an adverb. Like adverbs, adverbial clauses modify verbs, adjectives, or other adverbs within the main clause of a sentence. They provide information about when, where, why, how, under what condition, or to what extent the action or state described in the main clause occurs. Adverbial clauses are dependent clauses, meaning they cannot stand alone as complete sentences. They are always introduced by a subordinating conjunction, which connects the clause to the main clause and indicates the relationship between the two.
Adverbial clauses add detail and nuance to sentences, making them more informative and descriptive. They allow writers and speakers to express complex relationships between ideas and events. For example, instead of simply saying “I was late,” you could use an adverbial clause to explain why: “I was late because the traffic was terrible.” This provides additional context and makes the sentence more meaningful.
The function of an adverbial clause is to modify some element of the main clause, answering questions such as:
- When? (time)
- Where? (place)
- Why? (reason)
- How? (manner)
- For what purpose? (purpose)
- With what result? (result)
- Under what condition? (condition)
- Despite what? (concession)
- To what extent? (degree/comparison)
Structural Breakdown
The basic structure of an adverbial clause consists of three main components:
- Subordinating Conjunction: This word introduces the adverbial clause and connects it to the main clause. Common subordinating conjunctions include because, although, if, when, where, while, since, as, before, after, until, unless, so that, and than.
- Subject: This is the noun or pronoun that performs the action or is in the state described by the verb in the adverbial clause.
- Verb: This is the action word or state-of-being word in the adverbial clause. It indicates what the subject is doing or being.
Therefore, the general formula for an adverbial clause is:
Subordinating Conjunction + Subject + Verb (+ optional additional elements)
Here are some examples illustrating this structure:
- Because it was raining, we stayed inside. (Subordinating conjunction + Subject + Verb)
- If you study hard, you will pass the exam. (Subordinating conjunction + Subject + Verb)
- When the sun sets, the birds return to their nests. (Subordinating conjunction + Subject + Verb)
An adverbial clause can appear either before or after the main clause. When it appears before the main clause, it is usually followed by a comma.
When it appears after the main clause, a comma is generally not needed (unless it is a nonrestrictive clause providing extra, non-essential information).
Example:
- Before I leave, I need to finish this report. (Adverbial clause before main clause, comma used)
- I need to finish this report before I leave. (Adverbial clause after main clause, no comma needed)
Types of Adverbial Clauses
Adverbial clauses can be classified into different types based on the kind of information they provide. The most common types are:
Adverbial Clauses of Time
These clauses indicate when an action takes place. They are introduced by subordinating conjunctions such as when, while, as, before, after, since, until, as soon as, whenever, and as long as.
Examples:
- When the bell rings, the students will leave the classroom.
- I will call you after I arrive.
- As soon as he finished his work, he went home.
Adverbial Clauses of Place
These clauses indicate where an action takes place. They are introduced by subordinating conjunctions such as where and wherever.
Examples:
- You can sit wherever you like.
- Where there’s smoke, there’s fire.
- I will follow you wherever you go.
Adverbial Clauses of Reason
These clauses explain why an action takes place. They are introduced by subordinating conjunctions such as because, as, since, and inasmuch as.
Examples:
- I stayed home because I was feeling unwell.
- Since you are not interested, I will ask someone else.
- As it was raining, we decided to stay inside.
Adverbial Clauses of Purpose
These clauses indicate the intention or purpose behind an action. They are introduced by subordinating conjunctions such as so that, in order that, and lest.
Examples:
- I study hard so that I can get good grades.
- He exercises regularly in order that he may stay healthy.
- Lock the door lest someone should enter without permission.
Adverbial Clauses of Result
These clauses describe the consequence or outcome of an action. They are often introduced by the correlative conjunctions so…that and such…that.
Examples:
- It was so cold that the lake froze.
- She is such a talented singer that she won the competition.
- The movie was so boring that I fell asleep.
Adverbial Clauses of Condition
These clauses express a condition that must be met for something else to happen. They are introduced by subordinating conjunctions such as if, unless, provided that, as long as, on condition that, and in case.
Examples:
- If it rains, we will stay inside.
- You won’t pass the exam unless you study hard.
- I will lend you the book provided that you return it next week.
Adverbial Clauses of Concession
These clauses express a contrast or contradiction to the main clause. They are introduced by subordinating conjunctions such as although, though, even though, while, whereas, and even if.
Examples:
- Although it was raining, we went for a walk.
- Even though he is rich, he is not happy.
- While I understand your point, I don’t agree with you.
Adverbial Clauses of Manner
These clauses describe how an action is performed. They are introduced by subordinating conjunctions such as as, as if, and as though.
Examples:
- He acted as if he were the boss.
- She sings as beautifully as an angel.
- The child behaved as though he didn’t understand.
Adverbial Clauses of Comparison
These clauses make a comparison between two things. They are introduced by subordinating conjunctions such as than and as.
Examples:
- He is taller than I am.
- She is not as intelligent as she thinks.
- This car is more expensive than that one is.
Examples of Adverbial Clauses
Here are several tables containing examples of adverbial clauses, categorized by type. Each table provides numerous examples to illustrate the different subordinating conjunctions and sentence structures used with each type of clause.
Table 1: Adverbial Clauses of Time
This table showcases examples of adverbial clauses that specify the timing of an action. Pay attention to the various subordinating conjunctions used and how they affect the meaning of the sentence.
| Subordinating Conjunction | Example Sentence |
|---|---|
| When | When the music starts, everyone begins to dance. |
| While | While I was walking to school, I saw a beautiful bird. |
| As | As the day went on, the weather got colder. |
| Before | Before you leave, please turn off the lights. |
| After | After the rain stopped, the sun came out. |
| Since | Since I moved to this city, I’ve been much happier. |
| Until | We will wait here until the bus arrives. |
| As soon as | As soon as I finish this task, I’ll help you. |
| Whenever | Whenever I feel stressed, I listen to music. |
| As long as | As long as you promise to be careful, you can borrow my car. |
| When | I feel happy when I see my friends. |
| While | She studies while her brother plays. |
| As | As she practiced more, her skills improved. |
| Before | He always checks the weather before he goes hiking. |
| After | They celebrate after they win a game. |
| Since | I have learned a lot since I started this job. |
| Until | The store remains open until midnight. |
| As soon as | She calls her mom as soon as she gets home. |
| Whenever | He gets nervous whenever he has to speak in public. |
| As long as | The plant will thrive as long as you water it regularly. |
Table 2: Adverbial Clauses of Reason
The following table provides examples of adverbial clauses explaining the reason behind an action. Notice how the conjunctions because, as, and since are used to introduce these clauses.
| Subordinating Conjunction | Example Sentence |
|---|---|
| Because | I am tired because I didn’t sleep well last night. |
| As | As it was getting late, we decided to go home. |
| Since | Since you are busy, I will handle the task myself. |
| Because | Because the store was closed, I couldn’t buy milk. |
| As | I brought an umbrella as it looked like it might rain. |
| Since | Since everyone agreed, we proceeded with the plan. |
| Because | She smiled because she was happy. |
| As | I wore a coat as it was cold outside. |
| Since | Since you asked, I will tell you the truth. |
| Because | He failed the test because he didn’t study. |
| As | As the roads were icy, the school bus was delayed. |
| Since | Since the weather is nice, we should go for a walk. |
| Because | They moved because they needed a bigger house. |
| As | I couldn’t hear the music as the crowd was too loud. |
| Since | Since you already know the answer, you should tell everyone. |
| Because | She is successful because she works hard. |
| As | I took a taxi as I was running late. |
| Since | Since there is no evidence, the case was dismissed. |
| Because | He is learning Spanish because he wants to travel to Spain. |
| As | As the sun set, the sky turned orange. |
Table 3: Adverbial Clauses of Condition
This table illustrates adverbial clauses that express conditions. Pay close attention to the use of if and unless, as they are crucial in forming conditional sentences.
| Subordinating Conjunction | Example Sentence |
|---|---|
| If | If it rains tomorrow, we will cancel the picnic. |
| Unless | You won’t succeed unless you try harder. |
| Provided that | I will help you provided that you follow my instructions. |
| If | If you study regularly, you will pass the exam. |
| Unless | You can’t enter the building unless you have a badge. |
| Provided that | We will invest in your company provided that you show us a solid business plan. |
| If | She will be happy if you give her flowers. |
| Unless | The game will be cancelled unless the weather improves. |
| Provided that | You can use my car provided that you fill up the gas tank. |
| If | If you need anything, just let me know. |
| Unless | They won’t let you in unless you are on the guest list. |
| Provided that | You can stay here provided that you keep the place clean. |
| If | If I had more time, I would travel the world. |
| Unless | The plants will die unless you water them. |
| Provided that | You can borrow my book provided that you return it next week. |
| If | If she calls, tell her I’m out. |
| Unless | You’ll miss the bus unless you hurry. |
| Provided that | The deal is acceptable provided that all the terms are met. |
| If | If I win the lottery, I will buy a house. |
| Unless | The door won’t open unless you use the right key. |
Table 4: Adverbial Clauses of Concession
This table presents examples of adverbial clauses that express a contrast or concession. Pay attention to conjunctions such as although, though, and even though.
| Subordinating Conjunction | Example Sentence |
|---|---|
| Although | Although it was expensive, I bought the dress. |
| Though | Though he is old, he is still very active. |
| Even though | Even though it was raining, we decided to go for a walk. |
| Although | Although she was tired, she finished her work. |
| Though | Though the food was delicious, the service was slow. |
| Even though | Even though he is rich, he lives a simple life. |
| Although | Although the test was difficult, she passed it. |
| Though | Though it’s late, I’m not sleepy. |
| Even though | Even though he apologized, she was still angry. |
| Although | Although I disagree with you, I respect your opinion. |
| Though | Though the room was small, it was comfortable. |
| Even though | Even though he tried his best, he didn’t win. |
| Although | Although she is shy, she is very kind. |
| Though | Though the weather is bad, we will still go. |
| Even though | Even though I don’t like coffee, I drink it sometimes. |
| Although | Although the movie was long, it was very interesting. |
| Though | Though he is busy, he always makes time for his family. |
| Even though | Even though she is younger than me, she is wiser. |
| Although | Although I had a headache, I went to the party. |
| Though | Though it seems impossible, we will find a solution. |
Table 5: Adverbial Clauses of Purpose
This table shows how adverbial clauses can be used to express the purpose of an action, often using the conjunctions so that and in order that.
| Subordinating Conjunction | Example Sentence |
|---|---|
| So that | I exercise regularly so that I can stay healthy. |
| In order that | He studies hard in order that he may get good grades. |
| So that | She saved money so that she could buy a new car. |
| In order that | They built a fence in order that they might protect their garden. |
| So that | We left early so that we wouldn’t be late. |
| In order that | He whispered in order that he wouldn’t wake the baby. |
| So that | I am learning Spanish so that I can travel to South America. |
| In order that | She is taking a course in order that she may improve her skills. |
| So that | They planted trees so that they could provide shade. |
| In order that | He practices the piano daily in order that he may become a great musician. |
| So that | We packed extra clothes so that we would be prepared for any weather. |
| In order that | She wrote down the instructions in order that she might not forget them. |
| So that | I set an alarm so that I wouldn’t oversleep. |
| In order that | He checked his work carefully in order that he might avoid mistakes. |
| So that | She wears glasses so that she can see clearly. |
| In order that | They installed security cameras in order that they might protect their property. |
| So that | I am eating healthy foods so that I can live a long life. |
| In order that | She is attending the conference in order that she may network with other professionals. |
| So that | They studied the map so that they wouldn’t get lost. |
| In order that | He is saving money in order that he may buy a house. |
Usage Rules
Using adverbial clauses correctly involves understanding several key rules:
- Correct Subordinating Conjunction: Choose the appropriate subordinating conjunction to accurately convey the intended meaning (time, reason, condition, etc.).
- Subject-Verb Agreement: Ensure that the subject and verb within the adverbial clause agree in number (singular or plural).
- Tense Consistency: Maintain consistent verb tenses between the main clause and the adverbial clause, unless there is a logical reason to change tenses.
- Punctuation: Use a comma after the adverbial clause when it precedes the main clause. When the adverbial clause follows the main clause, a comma is usually not needed (unless it is a nonrestrictive clause).
- Avoid Misplaced Modifiers: Ensure that the adverbial clause is placed close enough to the element it modifies to avoid ambiguity.
Examples illustrating these rules:
- Correct: Because it was raining, we stayed inside. (Correct subordinating conjunction and punctuation)
- Incorrect: Because raining, we stayed inside. (Missing subject and incorrect conjunction usage)
- Correct: If he studies hard, he will pass the exam. (Tense consistency)
- Incorrect: If he studies hard, he passed the exam. (Incorrect tense)
Common Mistakes
Here are some common mistakes to avoid when using adverbial clauses:
- Using a coordinating conjunction instead of a subordinating conjunction: Coordinating conjunctions (and, but, or, nor, for, so, yet) cannot introduce adverbial clauses.
- Missing subject or verb in the adverbial clause: An adverbial clause must have both a subject and a verb.
- Incorrect verb tense in the adverbial clause: Ensure that the verb tense in the adverbial clause is appropriate for the context.
- Misplacing the adverbial clause: Place the adverbial clause close to the element it modifies to avoid confusion.
- Incorrect punctuation: Remember to use a comma when the adverbial clause comes before the main clause.
Examples of Correct vs. Incorrect Usage:
| Incorrect | Correct | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| I was tired, so I went to bed. | Because I was tired, I went to bed. | Coordinating conjunction “so” incorrectly used. |
| Because raining, we stayed home. | Because it was raining, we stayed home. | Missing subject in the adverbial clause. |
| If he will study, he will pass. | If he studies, he will pass. | Incorrect tense in the adverbial clause. |
| She ate dinner quickly because she was late. | Because she was late, she ate dinner quickly. | While grammatically correct, moving the clause improves clarity. |
| When I arrived I called her. | When I arrived, I called her. | Missing comma after the adverbial clause when it comes first. |
Practice Exercises
Test your understanding of adverbial clauses with these exercises.
Exercise 1: Identify the Adverbial Clause
Identify the adverbial clause in each of the following sentences.
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| 1. I will call you when I arrive. | when I arrive |
| 2. Because it was raining, we stayed inside. | Because it was raining |
| 3. If you study hard, you will pass the exam. | If you study hard |
| 4. Although she was tired, she finished her work. | Although she was tired |
| 5. You can sit wherever you like. | wherever you like |
| 6. As soon as he finished his work, he went home. | As soon as he finished his work |
| 7. Since you are busy, I will handle the task myself. | Since you are busy |
| 8. The cat sleeps where it feels safe. | where it feels safe |
| 9. If the weather is nice, we will go for a walk. | If the weather is nice |
| 10. She sings as if she were an angel. | as if she were an angel |
Exercise 2: Complete the Sentence
Complete each sentence by adding an appropriate adverbial clause.
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| 1. I will go to the party… | I will go to the party if I have time. |
| 2. Because I was feeling tired… | Because I was feeling tired, I went to bed early. |
| 3. When the sun sets… | When the sun sets, the sky turns orange. |
| 4. Although it was cold… | Although it was cold, I went for a run. |
| 5. You can find me… | You can find me wherever there is good coffee. |
| 6. As soon as I get home… | As soon as I get home, I will call you. |
| 7. Since you are already here… | Since you are already here, can you help me with this? |
| 8. He always smiles… | He always smiles when he sees his friends. |
| 9. If she calls… | If she calls, tell her I’m not home. |
| 10. She reads a book… | She reads a book whenever she has free time. |
Exercise 3: Correct the Mistakes
Identify and correct the mistakes in the following sentences.
| Question | Answer | Correction |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Because raining, we stayed inside. | Because raining, we stayed inside. | Because it was raining, we stayed inside. |
| 2. If he will study, he will pass. | If he will study, he will pass. | If he studies, he will pass. |
| 3. Although expensive, I bought it. | Although expensive, I bought it. | Although it was expensive, I bought it. |
| 4. She sings good as an angel. | She sings good as an angel. | She sings as well as an angel. |
| 5. When I arrive I will call you. | When I arrive I will call you. | When I arrive, I will call you. |
| 6. Because of tired, I slept. | Because of tired, I slept. | Because I was tired, I slept. |
| 7. Unless you study you fail. | Unless you study you fail. | Unless you study, you will fail. |
| 8. As she sings, she is happy. | As she sings, she is happy. | As she sings, she feels happy. |
| 9. If I would have known, I would have helped. | If I would have known, I would have helped. | If I had known, I would have helped. |
| 10. He runs quick as a deer. | He runs quick as a deer. | He runs as quickly as a deer. |
Advanced Topics
For advanced learners, here are some more complex aspects of adverbial clauses:
- Elliptical Adverbial Clauses: These are clauses where some words are omitted because they are understood from the context. For example: “While (I
am) in Paris, I visited many museums.”
- Adverbial Clauses with Reduced Verb Phrases: In some cases, the verb phrase in an adverbial clause can be reduced to a participle. For example: “Having finished his work, he went home.”
- The Subjunctive Mood in Adverbial Clauses: The subjunctive mood is sometimes used in adverbial clauses of condition or purpose to express hypothetical or desired situations. For example: “He insisted that everyone be on time so that the meeting would start promptly.”
FAQ
What is the difference between an adverbial clause and an adverbial phrase?
An adverbial clause contains a subject and a verb, while an adverbial phrase does not. For example: “Because it was raining” (clause) vs. “Due to the rain” (phrase).
Can an adverbial clause modify a noun?
No, adverbial clauses modify verbs, adjectives, or other adverbs. To modify a noun, you would use an adjective clause.
Is it always necessary to use a comma with an adverbial clause?
No, a comma is generally used when the adverbial clause comes before the main clause. When it follows the main clause, a comma is usually not needed unless the clause is nonrestrictive (provides extra, non-essential information).
What are correlative conjunctions, and how are they used in adverbial clauses?
Correlative conjunctions (such as so…that and such…that) are used to connect two related ideas in a sentence. In adverbial clauses, they often indicate a cause-and-effect relationship or a result. For example: “It was so cold that the lake froze.”
Can an adverbial clause be embedded within another clause?
While less common, it is possible for an adverbial clause to be embedded within another clause, although this can sometimes make the sentence complex and harder to read. Clarity should always be the primary goal.
Conclusion
Adverbial clauses are powerful tools for enhancing the clarity, detail, and complexity of your writing and speaking. By understanding their structure, types, and usage rules, you can effectively incorporate them into your communication to express a wide range of relationships between ideas and events.
Whether you are explaining the reason for an action, specifying when or where something happened, or expressing a condition or concession, adverbial clauses allow you to convey your message with precision and nuance. Continue to practice and explore the various ways adverbial clauses can be used, and you will undoubtedly see a significant improvement in your English language skills.