Cause, result and contrast in one kit: because (reason), so (result), but/although (contrast); no comma before because
I can join clauses with because/so/but/although without doubling connectors.
Look at these examples. Can you spot the grammar pattern?
Although the forecast promised sun, we packed umbrellas - and of course we needed them.
Although the forecast promised sun, we packed umbrellas - and of course we needed them.
The bakery was closed, so we made pancakes at home because Sunday needs pancakes.
The bakery was closed, so we made pancakes at home because Sunday needs pancakes.
Pay attention to the highlighted parts. What do they have in common?
Four workhorses:
| Connector | Job | Example |
|---|---|---|
| because | reason | We stayed in because it rained. |
| so | result | It rained, so we stayed in. |
| but | contrast | It rained, but we went out. |
| although | stronger contrast | Although it rained, we went out. |
because/so are mirror twins: swap the clause order, swap the word. Although-clauses can start the sentence with a comma after them. Never double up: *Although it rained, but we went out.
Apply this grammar in A2 course exercises
Practice Exercisesalthough + but together
One contrast connector per sentence
Reason/result connector swapped
because looks back, so looks forward
Although the forecast promised sun, we packed umbrellas - and of course we needed them.
Although the forecast promised sun, we packed umbrellas - and of course we needed them.
although up front, no but later.
The bakery was closed, so we made pancakes at home because Sunday needs pancakes.
The bakery was closed, so we made pancakes at home because Sunday needs pancakes.
so (result) + because (reason) in one Sunday.
Practice in course
Apply this grammar in A2 course exercises