Adverbs :

Other forms of Adverbs :

These types of clauses show an unexpected or non self-evident result based on the dependent clause. Example: He bought the car even though it was expensive. Take a look at the chart below to study the various usages of adverb clauses showing opposition.

Punctuation

When an adverb clause begins the sentence use a comma to separate the two clauses. Example: Even though it was expensive, he bought the car. When the adverb clause finishes the sentence there is no need for a comma. Example: He bought the car even though it was expensive.

For more information about how to use these words click on the link for an explanation of the usage.

Adverb Clauses Showing Opposition

Even though, though, although

Even though it was expensive, he bought the car.

Though he loves doughnuts, he has given them up for his diet.

Although he course was difficult, he passed with the highest marks.

Notice how 'though, even though' or 'although' show a situation which is contrary to the main clause to express opposition. Even though, though and although are all synonyms.

Whereas, while

Whereas you have plenty of time to do your homework, I have very little time indeed.

Mary is rich, while I am poor.

'Whereas' and 'while' show clauses in direct opposition to each other. Notice that you should always use a comma with 'whereas' and 'while'.

These types of clauses are often called "if clauses" in English grammar books and follow conditional sentence patterns. Take a look at the chart below to study the various usages of different time expressions.

Punctuation

When an adverb clause begins the sentence use a comma to separate the two clauses. Example: If he comes, we will have some lunch. When the adverb clause finishes the sentence there is no need for a comma. Example: He would have invited me if he had known.

If

If we win, we'll go to Kelly's to celebrate!

She would buy a house, if she had enough money.

'If' clauses express the conditions necessary for the result. If clauses are followed by expected results based on the condition.

Even if

Even if she saves a lot, she won't be able to afford that house.

In contrast to sentences with 'if' sentences with 'even if' show a result that is unexpected based on the condition in the 'even if' clause. Example: COMPARE: If she studies hard, she will pass the exam AND Even if she studies hard, she won't pass the exam.

Whether or not

They won't be able to come whether or not they have enough money.

Whether they have money or not, they won't be able to come.

'Whether or not' expresses the idea that neither one condition or another matters; the result will be the same. Notice the possibility of inversion (Whether they have money or not) with 'whether or not'.

Unless

Unless she hurries up, we won't arrive in time.

We won't go unless he arrives soon.

'Unless' expresses the idea of 'if not' Example: Unless she hurries up, we won't arrive in time. MEANS THE SAME AS: If she doesn't hurry up, we won't arrive in time. 'Unless' is only used in the first conditional.

In case (that), in the event (that)

In the case you need me, I'll be at Tom's.

I'll be studying upstairs in the event he calls.

'In case' and 'in the event' usually mean that you don't expect something to happen, but if it does... Both are used primarily for future events.

Only if

We'll give you your bicycle only if you do well on your exams.

Only if you do well on your exams will we give you your bicycle.

'Only if' means 'only in the case that something happens - and only if'. This form basically means the same as 'if'. However, it does stress the condition for the result. Note that when 'only if' begins the sentence you need to invert the main clause.

These types of clauses explain the reasons for what happens in the main clause. Example: He bought a new home because he got a better job.. Take a look at the chart below to study the various usages of different expressions of cause and effect. Note that all of these expressions are synonyms of 'because'.

Punctuation

When an adverb clause begins the sentence use a comma to separate the two clauses. Example: Because he had to work late, we had dinner after nine o'clock. When the adverb clause finishes the sentence there is no need for a comma. Example: We had dinner after nine o'clock because he had to work late.

For more information about how to use these words click on the link for an explanation of the usage.