Conjunctions Starting With B: A Comprehensive Guide

Conjunctions are the glue that holds sentences and ideas together. They connect words, phrases, and clauses, allowing for more complex and nuanced expression.

While many conjunctions are familiar, those starting with the letter ‘B’ – such as ‘because,’ ‘before,’ ‘but,’ ‘both…and,’ ‘besides,’ and ‘by the time’ – each have unique roles and nuances. Understanding these conjunctions is crucial for constructing clear, coherent, and grammatically correct sentences.

This article will explore these Conjunctions Starting With B in detail, providing definitions, examples, usage rules, common mistakes, and practice exercises to help you master their use. This guide is ideal for English language learners, students, writers, and anyone seeking to improve their grammar skills.

This comprehensive guide will provide a deep dive into the world of conjunctions that start with the letter “B”. We will explore their definitions, usage, structural nuances, and common pitfalls.

Through detailed explanations, numerous examples, and practical exercises, you will gain a solid understanding of how to effectively use these conjunctions to enhance your writing and communication skills.

Contents

Definition of Conjunctions

A conjunction is a word that connects words, phrases, or clauses within a sentence. Conjunctions serve to link elements of equal grammatical rank (coordinating conjunctions), to subordinate one clause to another (subordinating conjunctions), or to work in pairs to connect related elements (correlative conjunctions). They are essential for creating complex and grammatically sound sentences, allowing for the expression of relationships such as cause and effect, contrast, time, and condition.

Conjunctions play a vital role in sentence construction by establishing relationships between different parts of a sentence. They provide coherence and clarity, enabling writers and speakers to convey their ideas effectively.

Without conjunctions, our language would be limited to simple, disjointed sentences.

Structural Breakdown of Conjunctions

Conjunctions, despite their seemingly simple function, can influence the structure of a sentence significantly. They dictate how clauses are related and how information is presented.

Understanding the structural implications of each type of conjunction is key to using them correctly.

Coordinating conjunctions (like ‘but’) typically join elements of equal grammatical weight. Subordinating conjunctions (like ‘because’ and ‘before’) introduce dependent clauses, which cannot stand alone as sentences.

Correlative conjunctions (like ‘both…and’) always work in pairs to connect elements of equal importance.

Types of ‘B’ Conjunctions

The ‘B’ conjunctions can be categorized into subordinating, coordinating, and correlative conjunctions. Each category has its own specific function and structural impact on the sentence.

Coordinating Conjunctions

Coordinating conjunctions connect words, phrases, or independent clauses of equal grammatical rank. The most common coordinating conjunctions can be remembered using the acronym FANBOYS: For, And, Nor, But, Or, Yet, So. Among the ‘B’ conjunctions, ‘but’ is the primary coordinating conjunction.

‘But’ indicates a contrast or exception between the elements it connects. It suggests that the second element presents something unexpected or different from the first. For instance, “I wanted to go to the party, but I was too tired.”

Subordinating Conjunctions

Subordinating conjunctions introduce dependent clauses, connecting them to an independent clause. They establish a relationship of time, cause, condition, or contrast between the two clauses. ‘B’ conjunctions that fall into this category include ‘because,’ ‘before,’ and ‘by the time.’

‘Because’ indicates a reason or cause. For example, “I stayed home because I was feeling unwell.”
‘Before’ indicates a time relationship, specifying that one event happens prior to another. For example, “Please take off your shoes before you enter the house.”
‘By the time’ also expresses a time relationship, indicating that something will be completed or will have happened at a specific point in the future or past. For example, “By the time I finish this project, I will need a vacation.”

Correlative Conjunctions

Correlative conjunctions are pairs of conjunctions that work together to connect two elements of equal grammatical rank. The ‘B’ conjunction that falls into this category is ‘both…and.’

‘Both…and’ indicates that two things are true or included. For example, “Both my brother and I enjoy playing video games.”

Examples of ‘B’ Conjunctions in Sentences

To fully understand how to use these ‘B’ conjunctions, it’s helpful to see them in various sentence structures. The following sections provide numerous examples of each conjunction in different contexts.

Examples of ‘Because’

The conjunction ‘because’ is used to explain the reason or cause for something. It introduces a dependent clause that provides the explanation.

The table below presents a series of examples showcasing the use of “because” in various sentence structures. Note how the clause introduced by “because” provides the reason or explanation for the main clause.

Sentence
I am happy because it is sunny today.
She studied hard because she wanted to pass the exam.
We stayed inside because it was raining heavily.
He was late because his car broke down.
They went to the beach because the weather was perfect.
The plants died because no one watered them.
She smiled because she received good news.
The concert was cancelled because the singer was sick.
I couldn’t sleep because I drank too much coffee.
He got a promotion because he worked very hard.
The store was closed because it was a holiday.
She wore a coat because it was cold outside.
We missed the train because we were stuck in traffic.
He was nervous because he had a big presentation.
They celebrated because they won the game.
The food tasted delicious because it was made with fresh ingredients.
She was surprised because she didn’t expect the gift.
The project was successful because of teamwork.
I felt better because I took some medicine.
The museum was crowded because it was a weekend.
The children were excited because it was their birthday.
The company prospered because of its innovative ideas.
He was grateful because they helped him in need.
She was relieved because the problem was solved.
The event was memorable because of the great atmosphere.

Conjunctions Starting With B

Examples of ‘Before’

The conjunction ‘before’ indicates that one event happens prior to another. It’s used to establish a timeline or sequence of actions.

The table below showcases the use of “before” to indicate the sequence of events. Notice how the action in the clause introduced by “before” happens earlier than the action in the main clause.

Sentence
I drink coffee before I start working.
She always brushes her teeth before going to bed.
We need to finish this project before the deadline.
He called his mom before he left for his trip.
They practiced their lines before the play.
The chef tasted the soup before serving it.
She set an alarm before taking a nap.
We checked the weather before planning the picnic.
He stretched before exercising.
They reviewed the contract before signing it.
The audience applauded before the concert began.
She prepared the ingredients before she began cooking.
We made a reservation before going to the restaurant.
He warmed up the car before driving.
They gathered their belongings before departing.
The teacher explained the rules before the test.
She wrote a draft before finalizing the report.
We consulted with an expert before making a decision.
He made a backup before formatting the drive.
They inspected the equipment before starting the experiment.
She organized her notes before writing the essay.
We confirmed the details before sending the invitation.
He gathered his thoughts before speaking.
They tested the software before releasing it.
She researched the topic before writing the article.
We reviewed the feedback before making changes.

Examples of ‘But’

The conjunction ‘but’ is used to introduce a contrast or exception. It connects two ideas that are different or unexpected.

The table below illustrates the function of “but” in connecting contrasting ideas. Notice how the second clause introduced by “but” presents a contrast to the first clause.

Sentence
I like coffee, but I prefer tea.
She is very talented, but she is also humble.
We wanted to go to the beach, but it started raining.
He studied hard, but he still failed the exam.
They have a lot of money, but they are not happy.
The movie was long, but it was enjoyable.
She is very busy, but she always makes time for her family.
We tried our best, but we didn’t win the game.
He is a good speaker, but he can be nervous sometimes.
They live in a big house, but they feel lonely.
She is usually on time, but today she was late.
We planned everything carefully, but things didn’t go as expected.
He is strong, but he is also kind.
They have different opinions, but they respect each other.
She is an introvert, but she enjoys public speaking.
We expected a crowd, but only a few people showed up.
He is a beginner, but he is improving quickly.
They are facing challenges, but they are determined to succeed.
She is quiet, but she has a lot of interesting ideas.
We thought it would be easy, but it turned out to be difficult.
He is a serious person, but he has a good sense of humor.
They are different, but they complement each other well.
She is shy, but she is also very intelligent.
We were tired, but we kept going.
He is old, but he is still very active.

Conjunctions Starting With B

Examples of ‘Both…and’

The correlative conjunction ‘both…and’ is used to indicate that two things are true or included. It connects two elements of equal importance.

The table below provides examples of how “both…and” connects two related elements. Notice the parallel structure used for the elements being connected.

Sentence
Both John and Mary are coming to the party.
She is both intelligent and beautiful.
We need both time and money to complete this project.
He speaks both English and Spanish fluently.
They are both experienced and reliable.
The movie was both entertaining and thought-provoking.
She is both a talented singer and a skilled dancer.
We need both commitment and dedication to succeed.
He is both a leader and a team player.
They are both creative and innovative.
The food was both delicious and healthy.
She is both passionate and hardworking.
We need both knowledge and experience to solve this problem.
He is both confident and humble.
They are both friendly and helpful.
The presentation was both informative and engaging.
She is both a writer and an editor.
We need both strategy and execution to achieve our goals.
He is both a mentor and a friend.
They are both adaptable and resilient.
The event was both fun and educational.
She is both a designer and a developer.
We need both planning and flexibility to manage this project.
He is both a visionary and a pragmatist.
They are both curious and analytical.

Examples of ‘Besides’

The conjunction ‘besides’ can function as an adverb or a preposition, but when used as a conjunction, it introduces an additional reason or point. It means “in addition to” or “furthermore.”

The table below shows the use of “besides” to introduce an additional point or reason. Note how “besides” adds supplementary information to the main idea.

Sentence
I don’t want to go; besides, I’m too tired.
She doesn’t have the qualifications; besides, she doesn’t have the experience.
We can’t afford to buy a new car; besides, our old one is still working.
He doesn’t like coffee; besides, it keeps him awake at night.
They are not coming to the party; besides, they are out of town.
The project is too expensive; besides, it’s not a priority right now.
She doesn’t want to work there; besides, the commute is too long.
We can’t rely on them; besides, they have a history of unreliability.
He doesn’t want to invest in that company; besides, it’s too risky.
They are not interested in that offer; besides, they have better options.
I don’t have time to help; besides, I don’t know how to do it.
She doesn’t want to go to the concert; besides, she doesn’t like the band.
We can’t afford to buy that house; besides, it’s too far from our work.
He doesn’t want to join the club; besides, he doesn’t have the time.
They are not going to the meeting; besides, they already know the outcome.
The food is not good; besides, it’s overpriced.
She doesn’t want to apply for that job; besides, she is happy with her current one.
We can’t support that decision; besides, it goes against our values.
He doesn’t want to participate in the event; besides, he is not prepared.
They are not going to the conference; besides, it’s too expensive to attend.
The plan is not feasible; besides, it’s too complex to implement.
She doesn’t want to live in that city; besides, she prefers the countryside.
We can’t accept that offer; besides, we have a better proposal.
He doesn’t want to be involved; besides, he has other commitments.
They are not going to support the project; besides, they don’t believe in it.

Examples of ‘By the Time’

The conjunction ‘by the time’ indicates that something will be completed or will have happened at a specific point in the future or past. It establishes a deadline or a point of completion.

The table below demonstrates the use of “by the time” to set a deadline or completion point. Notice how it specifies that the action in the main clause will be completed or have happened at a particular time.

Sentence
By the time I finish this book, I will have read over a million words this year.
By the time she arrives, we will have already eaten dinner.
By the time he graduates, he will have received several job offers.
By the time they get here, the movie will have already started.
By the time we reach the summit, we will have been hiking for ten hours.
By the time the project is completed, we will have spent a significant amount of money.
By the time she finishes her degree, she will have gained valuable experience.
By the time they retire, they will have traveled the world.
By the time he turns 30, he will have achieved his career goals.
By the time we move to our new house, we will have lived in this city for 20 years.
By the time I get home, the kids will already be asleep.
By the time she calls, I will have finished the report.
By the time he arrives, we will have set up the party.
By the time they finish their training, they will be ready to start their new jobs.
By the time we reach the station, the train will have departed.
By the time the sun sets, we will have completed our work.
By the time she returns, I will have cleaned the house.
By the time he is ready to speak, the audience will have left.
By the time they are old enough to vote, the world will have changed significantly.
By the time we finish this project, we will have learned so much.
By the time I wake up, the day will already be in full swing.
By the time she is ready to publish, the book will have been edited multiple times.
By the time he is able to buy a house, prices will have increased even more.
By the time they are ready to launch, the product will have been thoroughly tested.
By the time we are ready to travel, the pandemic will hopefully be over.

Usage Rules for ‘B’ Conjunctions

Each ‘B’ conjunction has specific rules governing its proper use. Understanding these rules is essential for avoiding grammatical errors and ensuring clarity in writing.

Usage Rules for ‘Because’

‘Because’ introduces a clause that explains the reason for something.
The ‘because’ clause can come before or after the main clause. If it comes before, a comma is usually used to separate the clauses. Example: Because it was raining, we stayed inside.
Avoid using ‘because’ after “the reason is” or similar phrases. Instead, use “that.” Incorrect: The reason is because I was tired. Correct: The reason is that I was tired.

Usage Rules for ‘Before’

‘Before’ introduces a clause that indicates a time relationship, specifying that one event happens prior to another.
The ‘before’ clause can come before or after the main clause. If it comes before, a comma is usually used to separate the clauses. Example: Before you leave, please turn off the lights.
‘Before’ can also be used as a preposition, followed by a noun or pronoun. Example: He arrived before me.

Usage Rules for ‘But’

‘But’ connects two contrasting ideas or elements of equal grammatical rank.
‘But’ is typically preceded by a comma when connecting two independent clauses. Example: I wanted to go to the party, but I was too tired.
Avoid overusing ‘but’ in a single paragraph. Consider using alternative conjunctions or sentence structures to express contrast.

Usage Rules for ‘Both…and’

‘Both…and’ connects two elements of equal grammatical rank, indicating that both are true or included.
The elements connected by ‘both…and’ should be parallel in structure. This means they should be the same part of speech or grammatical form. Example: Both reading and writing are important skills. (Both followed by gerunds).
Avoid using ‘both…as well as’ as it is redundant. Use either ‘both…and’ or ‘as well as.’ Incorrect: Both John as well as Mary are coming. Correct: Both John and Mary are coming.

Usage Rules for ‘Besides’

‘Besides’ introduces an additional reason or point. It means “in addition to” or “furthermore.”
‘Besides’ is often followed by a comma. Example: I don’t want to go; besides, I’m too tired.
‘Besides’ can also be used as a preposition, meaning “next to” or “apart from.” Example: There was no one there besides me.

Usage Rules for ‘By the Time’

‘By the time’ introduces a clause that indicates a deadline or a point of completion.
The verb tense in the main clause depends on whether the ‘by the time’ clause refers to the past or the future.
- Future: By the time she arrives, we will have already eaten dinner. (future perfect)
- Past: By the time I got to the station, the train had already left. (past perfect)

Common Mistakes with ‘B’ Conjunctions

Even experienced English speakers sometimes make mistakes when using ‘B’ conjunctions. Being aware of these common errors can help you avoid them in your own writing.

The table below highlights common errors made when using “B” conjunctions. Each row shows an incorrect sentence followed by its corrected version, along with a brief explanation of the mistake and its correction.

Incorrect	Correct	Explanation
The reason is because I was late.	The reason is that I was late.	“Because” should not be used after “the reason is.” Use “that” instead.
Before to leave, turn off the lights.	Before leaving, turn off the lights.	“Before” should be followed by a gerund or a clause.
I like coffee, but I am preferring tea.	I like coffee, but I prefer tea.	Use the simple present tense with “prefer” for general preferences.
Both John as well as Mary are coming.	Both John and Mary are coming.	“Both…as well as” is redundant. Use “both…and.”
Besides, I am tired, so I don’t want to go.	Besides being tired, I don’t want to go. or I don’t want to go; besides, I’m tired.	The first example is better usage. The second example is okay but not as impactful.
By the time I got there, the train already left.	By the time I got there, the train had already left.	Use the past perfect tense in the main clause when ‘by the time’ refers to the past.
Because of I was tired, I slept.	Because I was tired, I slept.	It should be followed by a subject and a verb.
He finished to eat before leaving.	He finished eating before leaving.	Finished should be followed by a gerund.
I like hiking, but I like also biking.	I like hiking, but I also like biking.	Place the “also” before the verb.
Both he is smart and talented.	He is both smart and talented.	Place “both” before the first adjective.

Practice Exercises

Test your understanding of ‘B’ conjunctions with these practice exercises. Each exercise focuses on a different aspect of their usage.

Exercise 1: Fill in the Blanks

Fill in the blanks with the appropriate ‘B’ conjunction: because, before, but, both…and, besides, or by the time.

Complete the following sentences by filling in the blanks with the appropriate conjunction from the list provided. This exercise will help reinforce your understanding of how each conjunction is used in different contexts.

Question	Answer
I went to the store ______ I needed milk.	because
Please take off your shoes ______ entering the house.	before
She is intelligent, ______ she is also kind.	but
______ John ______ Mary are invited to the wedding.	Both…and
I don’t want to go; ______, I’m too busy.	besides
______ we arrive, the concert will have started.	By the time
He was tired, ______ he kept working.	but
______ you leave, make sure to lock the door.	Before
She stayed home ______ she wasn’t feeling well.	because
______ I finish this project, I’ll take a vacation.	By the time
He is ______ a talented musician ______ a skilled writer.	both…and
I don’t have time to help; ______, I lack the necessary skills.	besides
______ you press the button, ensure all connections are secure.	Before
The movie was long, ______ it was very interesting.	but
He brought an umbrella ______ it might rain.	because
______ the renovations are complete, the house will be worth much more.	By the time
She is ______ diligent ______ creative in her work.	both…and
I can’t go to the party; ______, I have an early meeting tomorrow.	besides
Remember to stretch ______ exercising.	before
The food was delicious, ______ it was a little expensive.	but

Exercise 2: Sentence Combining

Combine the following pairs of sentences using an appropriate ‘B’ conjunction.

Combine the following pairs of sentences into a single, coherent sentence using an appropriate conjunction from the list provided. This activity will help you practice using conjunctions to connect related ideas smoothly and effectively.

Sentences	Combined Sentence
I was feeling tired. I went to bed early.	Because I was feeling tired, I went to bed early.
She finished her work. She went for a walk.	Before she went for a walk, she finished her work.
He is very rich. He is not happy.	He is very rich, but he is not happy.
John is tall. Mary is tall.	Both John and Mary are tall.
I don’t have time. I don’t have the energy.	Besides not having time, I don’t have the energy.
We arrive. The show will begin.	By the time we arrive, the show will begin.
She studied hard. She failed the test.	She studied hard, but she failed the test.
You leave. Close the window.	Before you leave, close the window.
The weather was bad. We cancelled the picnic.	Because the weather was bad, we cancelled the picnic.
He finishes his work. He will go home.	By the time he finishes his work, he will go home.
She is smart. She is also hardworking.	She is both smart and hardworking.
I can’t go. I don’t have a ride.	Besides not being able to, I don’t have a ride.
You start the exam. Read all the instructions.	Before you start the exam, read all the instructions.
The cake was delicious. It was too sweet.	The cake was delicious, but it was too sweet.
He is a great singer. He is also a talented dancer.	He is both a great singer and a talented dancer.

Exercise 3: Error Correction

Identify and correct the errors in the following sentences related to the use of ‘B’ conjunctions.

Each of the following sentences contains an error in the usage of ‘B’ conjunctions. Identify the error and rewrite the sentence to correct it.

This exercise will sharpen your ability to recognize and fix common mistakes related to these conjunctions.

Incorrect Sentence	Corrected Sentence	Explanation
The reason is because I was late.	The reason is that I was late.	“Because” should not be used after “the reason is.”
Before to leave, turn off the lights.	Before leaving, turn off the lights.	“Before” should be followed by a gerund.
I like coffee, but I am preferring tea.	I like coffee, but I prefer tea.	Use the simple present tense for general preferences.
Both John as well as Mary are coming.	Both John and Mary are coming.	“Both…as well as” is redundant.
Besides, I am tired, so I don’t want to go.	Besides being tired, I don’t want to go. or I don’t want to go; besides, I’m tired.	The first example is better usage. The second example is okay but not as impactful.
By the time I got there, the train already left.	By the time I got there, the train had already left.	Use the past perfect tense in the main clause.
Because of I was tired, I slept.	Because I was tired, I slept.	“Because” should be followed by a subject and a verb.
He finished to eat before leaving.	He finished eating before leaving.	“Finished” should be followed by a gerund.
I like hiking, but I like also biking.	I like hiking, but I also like biking.	Place “also” before the verb.
Both he is smart and talented.	He is both smart and talented.	Place “both” before the first adjective.

Advanced Topics

For those looking to deepen their understanding, this section explores more complex aspects of using ‘B’ conjunctions.

Elliptical Clauses with ‘Before’ and ‘Because’

Elliptical clauses are clauses in which some words are omitted because they are understood from the context. ‘Before’ and ‘because’ are often used in elliptical clauses to create concise and efficient sentences.

Before: “He left before I did.” (The full clause would be “before I left.”)
Because: “I stayed home because sick.” (The full clause would be “because I was sick.”)

Nuances of ‘Besides’

‘Besides’ can function as an adverb, a preposition, or a conjunction, each with slightly different meanings. As a conjunction, it introduces an additional reason, but it can also imply that the previous reason was not sufficient on its own.

“I don’t want to go; besides, it’s too expensive.” (This implies that both the lack of desire and the cost contribute to the decision not to go.)

Frequently Asked Questions

This section addresses common questions and concerns about the use of ‘B’ conjunctions.

Can I start a sentence with “because”?

Yes, you can start a sentence with “because.” When you do, it’s important to follow it with a comma and an independent clause. For example: “Because it was raining, we decided to stay inside.” Starting a sentence with “because” is a good way to emphasize the reason or cause.

Is it correct to use “both…and” with more than two items?

No, “both…and” should only be used to connect two items. If you have more than two items, you should use a different structure, such as a list with “and” before the last item.

For example: “I like apples, bananas, and oranges.”

What’s the difference between “before” and “ago”?

“Before” is a conjunction or preposition that indicates a time relationship, specifying that one event happens prior to another. “Ago” is an adverb that indicates how far back in the past something happened.

For example: “I had seen him before” (conjunction). “I saw him a week ago” (adverb).

Can I use “but” to start a sentence?

Yes, it is grammatically correct to start a sentence with “but.” Although some traditional grammar guides discouraged it, modern usage accepts it, especially in informal writing. Starting a sentence with “but” can be effective for creating a contrast or transition.

When should I use a comma with “besides”?

When “besides” is used as a conjunction to introduce an additional reason or point, it is usually followed by a comma. For example: “I don’t want to go; besides, I’m too tired.” When “besides” is used as a preposition, it does not need a comma.

For example: “There was no one there besides me.”

What tense should I use after “by the time”?

The tense you use after “by the time” depends on whether you are referring to the past or the future. If referring to the future, use the future perfect tense in the main clause and the simple present in the “by the time” clause.

If referring to the past, use the past perfect tense in the main clause and the simple past in the “by the time” clause.

Conclusion: Conjunctions Starting With B

Mastering the use of conjunctions, especially those starting with ‘B,’ is essential for clear and effective communication. By understanding their definitions, usage rules, and common pitfalls, you can significantly enhance your writing and speaking skills.

Through the examples and exercises provided in this guide, you should now have a solid foundation for confidently using ‘because,’ ‘before,’ ‘but,’ ‘both…and,’ ‘besides,’ and ‘by the time’ in various contexts. Keep practicing and refining your understanding, and you’ll find that these conjunctions become valuable tools in your linguistic arsenal.

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