Adverbial Clauses helps you communicate about showing logical relationships between events and propositions. Start with the meaning, notice the pattern, and then use it in complete sentences.
By the end of this lesson, you can
- I can connect ideas with adverbial clauses of time, reason, contrast, purpose and condition.
- Recognise and build the form: subordinator + finite clause.
- Use the pattern accurately in a meaningful sentence.
Meaning and use
Use Adverbial Clauses for showing logical relationships between events and propositions. Always read the whole situation before choosing the form: grammar expresses a meaning, not only a pattern.
I'll call you when I arrive.
Use 'when' to introduce the future time of the call.
We stayed inside because it was raining.
'Because' introduces the reason for staying inside.
Although she was tired, she finished the report.
'Although' introduces a contrast with the main clause.
subordinator + finite clauseKeep this pattern visible while you study the examples. Then cover it and rebuild one example from memory.
Key rules to notice
These rules explain why the form is correct. Focus on the subject, auxiliary, verb form, word order and time or meaning clues.
- Use 'when' to introduce the future time of the call.
- 'Because' introduces the reason for staying inside.
- 'Although' introduces a contrast with the main clause.
- 'So that' introduces the purpose of taking a map.
- 'After' establishes the sequence of two events.
Common mistakes
Not:I'll call you because I arrive.
Use:I'll call you when I arrive.
Use 'when' to introduce the future time of the call.
Not:We stayed inside although it was raining.
Use:We stayed inside because it was raining.
'Because' introduces the reason for staying inside.
Not:Because she was tired, she finished the report.
Use:Although she was tired, she finished the report.
'Although' introduces a contrast with the main clause.
Check before you practise
Complete each sentence mentally, then reveal the answer.
Take a map ____ you don't get lost.
so that
'So that' introduces the purpose of taking a map.
You can join us ____ you finish your work.
after
'After' establishes the sequence of two events.
____ you need help, press this button.
If
'If' introduces the condition for pressing the button.