dependent conjunction

[/dɪˈpɛndənt kənˈdʒʌŋkʃən/]
nounpl: dependent conjunctions
conjunção subordinada
1. A conjunction that joins a dependent (subordinate) clause to an independent clause, establishing a relationship of dependence between them
In the sentence 'I will go to the party if you come with me,' the word 'if' is a dependent conjunction.
Na frase 'Irei à festa se você vier comigo,' a palavra 'se' é uma conjunção subordinada.
2. A type of subordinating conjunction that introduces a clause that cannot stand alone as a complete sentence
Because, although, unless, and while are examples of dependent conjunctions that require a main clause.
Porque, embora, a menos que e enquanto são exemplos de conjunções subordinadas que exigem uma oração principal.
In English-language grammar instruction across the United States and Brazil, understanding dependent conjunctions is fundamental to teaching sentence structure and complex sentences. In Brazil, this concept is taught as 'conjunções subordinadas' in secondary education (ensino médio) and is essential for Portuguese language proficiency exams.
Synonyms / Sinônimos
subordinating conjunctionsubordinate conjunctioncausal conjunction
Antonyms / Antônimos
independent conjunctioncoordinate conjunctioncoordinating conjunction

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
conjunção subordinada
Standard term used in Brazilian Portuguese grammar education
São Paulo
conjunção subordinada
Same as general Brazilian usage
Rio de Janeiro
conjunção subordinada
Same as general Brazilian usage
Portugal
conjunção subordinada
Identical to Brazilian Portuguese; standard European Portuguese term

Related Words

clausesubordinate clauseindependent clauseconjunctive adverbrelative pronoun

Related Idioms & Phrases

join clauses with dependent conjunctions
introduce a subordinate clause
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