Result clause

Definition

A result clause is a dependent clause that expresses the outcome or consequence of the situation described in the independent clause. It often answers the question 'what happened as a result?' and is typically introduced by words like 'so that', 'that', or 'such that'. Result clauses are commonly used in conditional sentences to show the implications of hypothetical situations.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Result clauses can indicate either direct or indirect consequences, clarifying how one action leads to another.
2. They are essential in constructing conditional sentences, where the main clause outlines a situation and the result clause describes what happens if that situation holds true.
3. The structure of a result clause often mirrors the structure of its corresponding main clause, maintaining parallelism for clarity.
4. In English, result clauses can also be introduced by 'as a result' or 'therefore', emphasizing the causal relationship between two events.
5. Understanding result clauses enhances comprehension of complex sentences and allows for more nuanced expression in both writing and speech.

Review Questions

• How do result clauses function within conditional sentences to convey meaning?
  • Result clauses function as essential components of conditional sentences by illustrating the outcomes that follow from certain conditions being met. When you have an 'if' clause stating a condition, the result clause explains what happens when that condition is satisfied. For example, in the sentence 'If it rains, we will stay indoors,' 'we will stay indoors' acts as the result clause detailing the consequence of the condition given in the first part.
• Evaluate the importance of using result clauses when discussing hypothetical situations in academic writing.
  • Using result clauses in academic writing is crucial for articulating potential consequences and implications stemming from hypothetical situations. They enable writers to clearly indicate how one idea or condition may lead to another outcome, thus enhancing clarity and logical flow. This usage not only helps readers understand relationships between concepts but also strengthens arguments by showcasing potential effects of actions or conditions.
• Synthesize how understanding result clauses can improve one's ability to create complex sentences in English.
  • Understanding result clauses significantly enhances a writer's ability to construct complex sentences, allowing for greater depth and sophistication in communication. By mastering this concept, individuals can connect ideas more effectively and articulate nuanced relationships between actions and their consequences. This skill is invaluable in both academic and everyday writing, as it encourages clear reasoning and helps convey detailed information while maintaining coherence throughout longer pieces of text.

Related terms

Conditional Sentence: A sentence that expresses a condition and its potential outcome, usually structured with an 'if' clause and a main clause.

Hypothetical Situation: A scenario that is imagined for the sake of argument or illustration, often using modal verbs to express possibility.

Conjunction: A word used to connect clauses or sentences, playing a key role in forming complex sentences that include result clauses.