[Grammar] How to start sentences in English

[ObservinTheLaws]

Hi All,

I have heard that it is not elegant to start sentences with the words: "because", "since", "but", "and"?

Is that true.

Thank you.

Michaël.

 

[MikeNewYork]

That depends upon the sentences. But there is no prohibition against those words at the beginning of sentences.

 

[salvador.dal1950]

That depends upon the sentences. But there is no prohibition against those words at the beginning of sentences.

I see what you did there!

 

[MikeNewYork]

;-)

 

[Xander Rud]

But it would not be elegant to start a conversation with these words. )))

 

[Esredux]

But it would not be elegant to start a conversation with these words. )))

And why did you do so then? ;-)

 

[TheParser]

***** NOT A TEACHER *****

Hello, Observin':

I have read that if one understands the rules, then one can occasionally break them. For example, professional writers presumably know the rules, so they feel free to break them.

Learners should probably refrain from starting sentences with those words. Furthermore, in formal contexts (at the university, for example), it might be a good idea to avoid such sentences, too.

As you read more and more English, you will find, however, that many native speakers occasionally start sentences with those words -- for a more dramatic or emphatic effect:

"Despite her parents' objections, Mona said that she would marry James, and she did!"

"Despite her parents' objections, Mona said that she would marry James. And she did!"



James

 

[MikeNewYork]

Those were never really rules. File them with "never end a sentence with a preposition" and "never split an infinitive". Those "rules" are out of date and mostly forgotten.