Anonymous Posted 12 years ago
Grammar
Can we use the sentences beginning with 'For'?
As I've learned, I cannot begin the sentences with the conjunction 'for'.
But as I study English more and more, I saw many sentences contradict with my knowledge. Following are the examples ;
1) For with the elimination of all the conflicts and errors of instinct, the race would do spontaneously whatever led to its welfare and we should live safely and prosperously without external stimulus or restraint.
2) For if we seek society, it is because we want fresh impressions.
Every time I see this kind of sentences, I cannot interpret at all.
Is there general way of how to interpret the sentence beginning with conjunction 'for'?
Sorry for long question and thank you for reading this question!
But as I study English more and more, I saw many sentences contradict with my knowledge. Following are the examples ;
1) For with the elimination of all the conflicts and errors of instinct, the race would do spontaneously whatever led to its welfare and we should live safely and prosperously without external stimulus or restraint.
2) For if we seek society, it is because we want fresh impressions.
Every time I see this kind of sentences, I cannot interpret at all.
Is there general way of how to interpret the sentence beginning with conjunction 'for'?
Sorry for long question and thank you for reading this question!
Top answer
You should not begin a sentence with 'for' when it means 'because'. Other meanings permit it. Good writers can do so for style because in the context a clause of explanation precedes 'for', as in your two examples.
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You should not begin a sentence with 'for' when it means 'because'. Other meanings permit it.
Good writers can do so for style because in the context a clause of explanation precedes 'for', as in your two examples. If you can reexamine your sources, you will see that the preceding sentences are prefatory to these.
Good writers can do so for style because in the context a clause of explanation precedes 'for', as in your two examples. If you can reexamine your sources, you will see that the preceding sentences are prefatory to these.
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These examples are perfectly correct.
However, they do require an introductory sentence. You might find them in a public speech.
Eg, "I believe in freedom. (pause) For man is born free." (off the top of my head)
However, they do require an introductory sentence. You might find them in a public speech.
Eg, "I believe in freedom. (pause) For man is born free." (off the top of my head)
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