Why do English Sentences Use \"Because\" and \"So\"?

Introduction

English is a fascinating language, and one of the most intriguing aspects of it is the use of \"because\" and \"so\" in sentences. These two words have a significant function in the English language, and this article will explore why they are commonly used as well as how they are structured in sentences.

The Function of \"Because\"

\"Because\" is a conjunction that is used to connect two clauses in a sentence. The first clause will express the reason, cause, or motive of something, and the second will be the result, effect, or consequence of that reason. For example, \"I am tired because I stayed up late last night.\" In this sentence, the reason for being tired is staying up late, and the consequence of staying up late is being tired.

The Structure of \"Because\" Sentences

When \"because\" is used to connect two clauses in a sentence, there are two possible sentence structures that can be used. The first is the \"independent clause + because + dependent clause\" structure, and the second is the \"because + independent clause + dependent clause\" structure. Let's take a closer look at each of these structures.

The Independent Clause + Because + Dependent Clause Structure

This structure is used when the reason or cause comes before the effect. For example, \"I am tired because I stayed up late last night,\" where \"I am tired\" is the independent clause, \"because\" is the conjunction, and \"I stayed up late last night\" is the dependent clause. This structure is useful when a person wants to emphasize the reason or cause of something, and it is best used when the independent clause is meaningful by itself.

The Because + Independent Clause + Dependent Clause Structure

This structure is used when the effect or consequence comes before the reason or cause. For example, \"Because I stayed up late last night, I am tired,\" where \"Because I stayed up late last night\" is the dependent clause, \"I am tired\" is the independent clause, and \"because\" is the conjunction. This structure is useful when a person wants to emphasize the effect or consequence of something, and it is best used when the dependent clause is more meaningful than the independent clause.

The Function of \"So\"

Similar to \"because,\" \"so\" is a conjunction that is used to connect two clauses in a sentence. However, the function of \"so\" is to indicate the result or consequence of the first clause. For example, \"I am tired, so I am going to bed early.\" In this sentence, the first clause states the reason or cause, which is being tired, and the second clause is the result or consequence, which is going to bed early.

The Structure of \"So\" Sentences

When \"so\" is used to connect two clauses in a sentence, there are two possible sentence structures that can be used. The first is the \"independent clause + so + independent clause\" structure, and the second is the \"so + independent clause\" structure. Let's take a closer look at each of these structures.

The Independent Clause + So + Independent Clause Structure

This structure is used when the two clauses are given equal importance. For example, \"I am tired, so I am going to bed early,\" where \"I am tired\" is the independent clause, \"so\" is the conjunction, and \"I am going to bed early\" is the independent clause. This structure is useful when a person wants to emphasize the result or consequence of something, and it is best used when both clauses are meaningful by themselves.

The So + Independent Clause Structure

This structure is used when the second independent clause is shorter or less important than the first clause. For example, \"I am tired, so I am going to bed,\" where \"I am tired\" is the independent clause and \"so I am going to bed\" is the second independent clause. This structure is useful when a person wants to emphasize the result or consequence of something and it is best used when the second clause is less meaningful than the first clause.

Conclusion

In conclusion, \"because\" and \"so\" are two essential conjunctions in the English language that play an important role in connecting clauses in a sentence. The way a sentence is structured will impact the emphasis and importance of each clause, and knowing how to use these words can add to the clarity and effectiveness of your writing and speaking. By mastering the use of \"because\" and \"so,\" you can express yourself more clearly and present your ideas in a more organized and logical way.

References:

- Azar, B. S., & Hagen, S. A. (2006). Understanding and using English grammar (Vol. 3). Pearson Longman.