Can You Start a Sentence with As?

Starting a sentence with "as" is perfectly acceptable in English. "As" can function as a conjunction, which means it can join clauses or introduce a dependent clause that adds context or explanation to the main idea of the sentence.

How to Use "As" at the Beginning of a Sentence

1. To Show Cause or Reason

➡️ Example: "As it was raining, we decided to stay indoors."

Here, "as" introduces the reason why "we decided to stay indoors."

2. To Compare or Show a Simultaneous Action

➡️ Example: "As the sun set, the sky turned a brilliant shade of orange."

In this sentence, "as" indicates that the two actions (the sun setting and the sky turning orange) happened at the same time.

3. To Indicate a Condition

➡️ Example: "As long as you finish your homework, you can watch TV."

"As long as" introduces a condition that must be met.

Common Errors

❌ Incomplete Sentence:

If you start a sentence with "as," make sure it is followed by a complete clause. An incomplete thought would confuse the reader.

Incorrect: "As it was raining."
Correct: "As it was raining, we canceled the picnic."

❌ Misuse of "as":

Sometimes "as" is incorrectly used in place of "because" or "since," which can lead to ambiguity if not used carefully.

FAQ

Can "as" be used to start a sentence in formal writing?

Yes, "as" can be used to start a sentence in both formal and informal writing.

What are some alternatives to starting a sentence with "as"?

Alternatives include "because," "since," "while," or "when," depending on the context.

Can I use "as" to show a comparison at the start of a sentence?

Yes, you can use "as" to introduce a comparison, especially in phrases like "As strong as an ox."

Is it better to avoid starting a sentence with "as"?

It's not necessary to avoid it. Starting with "as" can be effective, especially for emphasizing a cause, reason, or simultaneous action.

Can "as" start a sentence in a question?

Typically, "as" doesn’t start questions, but it can appear in conditional questions like, "As long as you study, will you pass the exam?"