Adverbial Clause Examples
An adverbial clause is a dependent clause that functions as an adverb, modifying a verb, adjective, or another adverb in the main clause. It tells us when, where, why, how, to what extent, or under what conditions something happens.
Here are some examples of adverbial clauses, categorized by their function:
Time
- When the bell rings, the students will leave the classroom.
- After she finished her homework, she went to bed.
- As soon as the train arrives, I'll call you.
Place
- Where the river flows, there is life.
- Wherever you go, I'll follow you.
- Everywhere the king went, he was met with cheers.
Reason
- Because it was raining, we stayed inside.
- Since you are tired, you should take a break.
- As I was late, I took a shortcut.
Manner
- How he won the race was a mystery.
- As if he had never seen a computer before, he stared at the screen in amazement.
- Just as you said, the cake was delicious.
Condition
- If you study hard, you will succeed.
- Unless you apologize, I won't forgive you.
- Provided that you pay on time, you can rent the apartment.
Contrast
- Although it was cold, she wore a short skirt.
- Even though he was tired, he kept working.
- Despite the bad weather, we had a great time.
Purpose
- So that he could pass the exam, he studied hard.
- In order to avoid traffic, she took the back roads.
- To save money, we decided to walk instead of driving.
These are just a few examples of adverbial clauses. By understanding their function and structure, you can use them effectively in your writing to add detail, variety, and interest to your sentences.
