Final answer:
Common introductory clause starters include subordinating conjunctions and transitional words or phrases that provide context to the main clause. Examples include temporal conjunctions such as 'after', 'before', 'during', as well as illustrative transitions like 'for example' and 'to illustrate'. These elements guide the reader and signal the intent behind the clause.
Step-by-step explanation:
Introductory clauses often start with subordinating conjunctions, transition words, or phrases that provide context or detail about the main clause of a sentence. These elements are essential to building complex sentences that have depth and clear linkages between ideas. Here are a few examples of words that are commonly used in introductory clauses:
- In addition to transitional words like 'although', 'since', and 'unless', which introduce a dependent clause, other transitional phrases are also prevalent.
- Temporal conjunctions, such as 'after', 'before', and 'during', set up a chronological context for the action in the following clause.
- Moreover, expressions like 'for example' and 'to illustrate' serve as illustrative transitions, indicating that an example or clarification is about to be provided.
The use of these transitional elements is crucial in guiding the reader through the flow of thought in a piece of writing. They signal the purpose of the introductory clause, whether it's to add information, illustrate a point, demonstrate cause and effect, or sequence events.