Reading & WritingExpression of IdeasHigh frequency
SAT Reading & Writing: Faulty Subordination
34+ practice questions in Praczo
What you need to know
The concept, explained
- 1
Faulty subordination occurs when the primary, most important idea in a sentence is buried in a dependent clause, while a minor detail is elevated to the independent clause.
- 2
It also occurs if you subordinate the wrong half of a cause-and-effect relationship.
- 3
Incorrect logic: "Because the building collapsed, a minor earthquake hit." (The collapse didn't cause the earthquake).
Common mistakes
- ✗ Focusing purely on grammar and ignoring the logical flow of which event triggered the other.
Try a sample question
SAT-style practice
Which sentence presents the most logical subordination?
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