Can You Start a Sentence With As? (Grammar Rules!)

Can you Start a Sentence With As : Yes, beginning a sentence with the word “as” is grammatically correct.

While some traditional grammar rules may discourage this practice, modern writing styles often embrace the use of starting sentences with conjunctions like “as.”

Whether it’s for stylistic purposes or to create emphasis, using “as” at the beginning of a sentence can be an effective technique in writing.

Start a Sentence with As:

Yes, you absolutely can start a sentence with “as”! In fact, it’s a grammatically correct and effective way to begin a sentence in many situations.

Here’s a breakdown:

When to Use “As” at the Beginning of a Sentence:

• To introduce a reason: “As the sun began to set, we decided to head back to camp.” (Here, “as” explains the reason for leaving.)
• To introduce a comparison: “As a child, I loved building sandcastles.” (This compares your childhood experience to a general statement.)

What Is an Example of A Sentence Starting with As?

Here are a few examples of sentences starting with “as” to showcase its different uses:

• Reason: As the rain poured down, we decided to postpone the picnic. (“As” explains why they postponed the picnic.)
• Comparison: As strong as an ox, he easily lifted the heavy box. (“As” compares his strength to an ox.)
• Time Frame: As the clock struck twelve, the fireworks display began. (“As” sets the time for the event.)
• Concession: As much as I dislike needles, I knew I needed to get a flu shot. (“As” acknowledges the dislike but emphasizes the action.)
• Accompanying Clause: As predicted, the test results came back positive. (“As” sets up the prediction that is confirmed.)

Can You Start a Sentence with As Well As:

Starting a sentence with “as well as” is grammatically possible, but it’s not the most common or natural construction.

Here’s a breakdown:

• Technically Possible: “As well as” functions as a conjunction, and conjunctions can technically start sentences to connect them to previous ideas.
• Less Common and Informal: However, it’s not as common or idiomatic to begin a sentence with “as well as.” It can sound a bit clunky or informal, especially in formal writing.

Can You Start a Sentence with As in Formal Writing?

Yes, you can absolutely start a sentence with “as” in formal writing! It’s a grammatically correct and effective way to introduce various elements in a sentence, as long as you use it strategically.

Here’s a breakdown:

Points to Consider for Formal Writing:

• Clarity and Concision: While “as” is grammatically sound, ensure the sentence with “as” is clear and concise. If a rephrasing improves clarity, consider it.
• Overuse: Avoid overusing “as” at the beginning of sentences in formal writing. It can make your writing sound repetitive.
• Alternatives: For a more formal tone, you can sometimes replace “as” with other transitional words or phrases like “since,” “because,” “in light of,” “given that,” or “when.”

What Is an Example of A Sentence Using as As?

The phrase “as…as” is used for comparisons.

Here are a few examples to show how it works:

• Similar: “Her test scores were as high as mine.” (Compares the test scores)
• Equal: “This new phone is just as fast as my old one.” (Highlights no difference in speed)
• Not As…As: “The movie wasn’t as good as the book.” (Compares the quality and indicates the movie was not as good)
• Quantity: “She can eat as many cookies as I can.” (Compares how much they can eat)

Can We Start a Sentence with Such As?

No, you generally cannot start a sentence with “such as” because it’s a conjunctive phrase, not a complete sentence on its own. “Such as” introduces examples and needs a preceding clause to provide context.

Here’s why it wouldn’t work:

• Incomplete Thought: “Such as” depends on a main clause to explain what “such” refers to. Starting a sentence with it leaves the thought hanging.

Where Is Use as In a Sentence?

The word “use” can be used in a sentence in a few different ways, depending on its part of speech:

Verb (to make use of something):

In this case, “use” is a verb that means to employ or benefit from something.

• Example: “I use my laptop for work and entertainment.”

Noun (the act of using something):

Here, “use” functions as a noun, referring to the act of employing something.

• Example: “The computer’s many uses make it a valuable tool.”

Preposition (followed by a noun or pronoun):

Less commonly, “use” can be a preposition, indicating a purpose or function.

• Example: “This wrench is specifically designed for use with bicycles.” (Here, “use” connects “wrench” to its purpose)

What Is the Grammar Rule of As?

The word “as” can function as a few different parts of speech depending on the context, and the grammar rule for using it varies accordingly:

Conjunction:

This is the most common use of “as.” As a conjunction, “as” connects clauses or phrases. Here are some specific ways it functions as a conjunction:

• Reason: “As the storm approached, we hurried inside.” (Connects the reason for hurrying)
• Comparison: “She is as tall as her brother.” (Connects the two things being compared)

Preposition:

“As” can also function as a preposition, typically followed by a noun or pronoun. It indicates function, role, or manner.

• “He worked as a waiter during his college years.” (Shows his role)

Adverb:

In some cases, “as” acts as an adverb, modifying an adjective, adverb, or verb.

• “The answer is as simple as that.” (Modifies “simple”)

Part of a Phrase:

“As well as” is a conjunctive phrase used to introduce additional information.

Latest Posts!

• 
  9 Proper Ways to Sign a Letter on Behalf of Someone Else!
• 
  Do You Put a Comma After Yesterday? Here Defined:
• 
  12 Professional Ways to Say I Will Keep You Posted!
• 
  10 Other Ways to Say Well Received in An Email!
• 
  12 Other Ways to Say Thank You for Your Attention!
• 
  Secretary’s or Secretaries’ or Secretaries? Which Is Correct?