Cause, result and contrast
A closed set of connectors. parce que takes the ordinary verb. bien que takes the subjunctive (the special verb form after que). donc and alors give the result. mais, pourtant and cependant mark a contrast.
Examples
- Je reste parce qu'il pleut.I stay because it's raining.
- Bien qu'il soit tard, il travaille.Although it's late, he works.
How it works
How to join two ideas. The connector decides the verb form. This is not a second lesson on the subjunctive (the special verb form after que): only bien que, from the list you already have, changes the verb.
Cause
Result
Contrast
Common mistakes
What you'll practise
1. Cause
parce que, car, puisque, comme plus an ordinary verb. à cause de and grâce à plus a noun.
- J'ai réussi grâce à toi.I succeeded thanks to you.
2. Result
donc, alors, c'est pourquoi. The verb stays ordinary.
- Il pleut, donc je reste.It's raining, so I stay.
3. Contrast
mais, pourtant, cependant, quand même. bien que takes the subjunctive (the special verb form after que). parce que does not.
- Il est fatigué, mais il travaille.He's tired, but he works.
Practise it until it sticks
Short drills built on these 3 skills, with instant feedback on every answer. Free to start.