B1 (Intermediate)Lesson 8: Sentence Architecture
Complex sentences connect clauses in two major ways: coordination joins clauses of the same level, while subordination makes one clause depend on another.
Coordination = equal clauses
Subordination = dependent clause
Connectors signal logical relations such as cause, time, contrast, and condition
This is the point where sentence building becomes genuinely flexible. Coordination and subordination open the door to explanation, argument, storytelling, and nuance.
main clause + connector + main clause / main clause + subordinate clause
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Coordination links clauses of equal status: "cheguei cedo, mas saí tarde".
Subordination creates dependence: "fiquei em casa porque estava cansado".
A subordinate clause can act like time, cause, condition, concession, or content.
Understanding the relation between clauses is more important than memorizing isolated connectors.
Clause order can change while the relation stays the same: "Quando ele chega, a gente janta" / "A gente janta quando ele chega".
Some connectors are frequent across many levels and deserve early mastery.
| Portuguese | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Cheguei cedo, mas saí tarde. | I arrived early, but I left late. |
| Fiquei em casa porque estava cansado. | I stayed home because I was tired. |
| Quando ele chega, a gente janta. | When he arrives, we have dinner. |
| Embora chovesse, fomos mesmo assim. | Although it was raining, we went anyway. |
| Se você ligar, eu respondo. | If you call, I will answer. |
| Embora chovesse, fomos. | Although it was raining, we went. |
| Enquanto você estuda, eu cozinho. | While you study, I cook. |
Some connectors can work with slightly different meanings depending on context.
Comma placement depends on the type and position of the clause, not just the connector alone.
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