Clause: semantic

Semantic clauses

Clause Type	Typical Subordinators	Example	Usage / Function
Temporal Clause	when, while, before, after, once, as soon as	She left before I arrived	Shows time of the main action.
Manner Clause	as if, as though	He explained it as if he were an expert	Shows how something is done.
Reason / Cause Clause	because, since, as	Because she worked hard, she succeeded	Explains why the main clause happens.
Condition / Hypothetical	if, unless, in case	If we reduce emissions, we will help the planet	Sets up hypothetical or real conditions.
Comparison Clause	than, as…as	She runs faster than I do	Shows degree of similarity or difference.
Consequence / Result	so (that), such that	He trained hard, so he won the race	Expresses logical consequence.
Purpose Clause	so that, in order that, to (infinitive)	She studies hard so that she may pass exams	Expresses intention of the main clause.
Place / Location Clause	where, wherever	Wherever you go, I will follow	Indicates spatial context.
Frequency / Habit Clause	whenever, every time, each time	Whenever I visit, she is cooking	Indicates repetition or habit.

Semantic by CGEL

CGEL Semantic Relation (finite subordinator)	Typical Subordinator(s)	Example	When to use / typical writing purpose
Temporal (time)	when, while, before, after, once, as soon as	When she arrived, we started.	To indicate time of the main action; narrative sequencing
Causal (reason)	because, since, as	Because it rained, we stayed in.	To explain why something happens; supporting argumentation
Conditional	if, in case, unless	If she comes, we’ll start.	To present hypothetical or real conditions; argumentative reasoning
Concessive / Contrast	although, though, even if, while	Although tired, she continued.	To highlight contrast or unexpected outcome; persuasive writing
Purpose (goal)	so that, in order that	He left early so that he could rest.	To express intention or aim of an action; clarifying rationale
Result / Consequence	so (that)	He trained hard so that he won.	To show logical outcome or effect; emphasizing results
Manner / Comparison	as if, as though	He acts as if he knows all.	To describe how something happens or compares; stylistic nuance
Place	where, wherever	Wherever you go, I’ll follow.	To indicate location or direction; narrative or spatial context

This table is directly compatible with CGEL’s approach: semantic relations are tied to subordinators, but the “When to use” column gives practical guidance for high-level writing.