Understanding Common Conjunctions in English

Study Notes

Conjunctions: Connecting Ideas with Precision

Conjunctions are words that connect words, phrases, or clauses within a sentence. They play a crucial role in showcasing relationships between ideas, helping readers understand the logical flow of information. In this article, we'll explore some common conjunctions—given that, however, and seen that, now that—to deepen our understanding of how they function in English language sentences.

Given That

The conjunction "given that" introduces a condition or assumption that has already been stated, implying a cause or consequence based on the assumption. It helps establish a relationship between the condition/assumption and the consequence that follows. For example:

Given that it's raining, I'll carry an umbrella with me today.

In this sentence, "given that it's raining" is the condition, while "I'll carry an umbrella with me today" is the consequence, the action that follows from the condition.

However

"However" is a contrasting conjunction, serving to contrast or distinguish two clauses, indicating a difference or opposition between them. It suggests a change in direction or a turn to a new idea. For example:

The weather was pleasant yesterday, however, today it's raining heavily.

Here, "however" juxtaposes the pleasant weather yesterday with the rainy weather today, highlighting their difference.

Seen That

"Seen that" is a variant of "since" and follows a similar pattern, indicating a cause-and-effect relationship. It conveys the idea that something is true or has happened because of another fact or event. For example:

I didn't go to work, seen that my car was in the shop for repairs.

In this sentence, "seen that my car was in the shop for repairs" is the cause, while "I didn't go to work" is the consequence.

Now That

"Now that" is a conjunction that indicates a change in circumstances or a new state of affairs, implying that something is happening or has happened because of a particular condition or situation. For example:

I can finally start working on my book now that I've finished my exams.

Here, "now that I've finished my exams" is the condition, while "I can finally start working on my book" is the consequence.

These conjunctions are only a few of the many that English offers, each with their own nuanced uses and purposes. As you explore and experiment with their usage, you'll discover the richness they provide in expressing the relationships between ideas within a sentence.