How we change what others think, feel, believe and do

Hypotaxis

Techniques > Use of language > Figures of speech > Hypotaxis

Method | Example | Discussion | See also

Description

Hypotaxis uses subordination of clauses to show relationships.

Example

I had a drink because I was thirsty.

When I go out, I feel happy.

If you have passed the test you can drive by yourself.

Discussion

In constructing complex sentences, Hypotaxis is a very common principle. With complexity, you make people think more about what you said. You can make your words flow and give a smooth easiness to your sentences.

Relationships you can show include:

Cause-and-effect: A leads to B
Conditional: If A then B
Set-membership: A is a part of B

Hypotaxis is the 'opposite' of Parataxis.

Classification: Grammar