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?"