Can You Start A Sentence With Such As

Can You Start a Sentence with "Such as"? A Grammatical Deep Dive

Starting a sentence with "such as" is a stylistic choice, often debated in grammar circles. While technically not grammatically incorrect, it's generally considered less formal and can sometimes sound awkward. This article will delve into the nuances of this grammatical quirk, exploring its appropriate usage, alternatives, and how to avoid sounding clunky.

Understanding the Function of "Such as"

"Such as" is a phrase used to introduce examples. It functions as an adverbial phrase, providing further clarification or illustration of a preceding noun or pronoun. The phrase usually follows a general statement and is followed by a list or a few examples. For example:

Many fruits are rich in Vitamin C, such as oranges, lemons, and grapefruits.

In this sentence, "such as" introduces examples of fruits high in Vitamin C, following the general statement.

Why Starting with "Such as" is Often Discouraged

While grammatically possible, beginning a sentence with "such as" can lead to a slightly disjointed and abrupt feel. This is because it lacks a clear subject at the beginning, leaving the reader momentarily confused before the examples are provided. The phrase inherently points to something previously mentioned, making its use at the start of a sentence feel somewhat incomplete.

Consider these examples:

• Awkward: Such as apples and bananas, these fruits are high in fiber.
• Better: These fruits, such as apples and bananas, are high in fiber.

Alternatives to Starting with "Such as"

There are numerous elegant ways to avoid this stylistic issue. The best alternative often depends on the context. Here are some suggestions:

• Using a stronger introductory phrase: Instead of "Such as apples and bananas...", you could use "Fruits like apples and bananas...", "Examples of this include apples and bananas...", or "For example, apples and bananas...".
• Reframing the sentence: Restructure the sentence to place the main subject at the beginning. This is often the cleanest and most effective solution.

When Starting with "Such as" Might Be Acceptable

There are rare occasions when beginning a sentence with "such as" might be acceptable. This primarily occurs in informal writing or speech where a more conversational tone is desired. Even then, it should be used sparingly to avoid repetitive or jarring phrasing. In academic or formal writing, it's best avoided altogether.

Examples of Improved Sentence Structure

Let's revisit the awkward example and demonstrate some improved alternatives:

• Awkward: Such as the cheetah and the lion, large felines are known for their speed and power.
• Better: Large felines, such as the cheetah and the lion, are known for their speed and power.
• Better: The cheetah and the lion, for example, are large felines known for their speed and power.
• Better: Examples of large felines known for their speed and power include the cheetah and the lion.

Conclusion: Style and Clarity are Key

While technically possible, beginning a sentence with "such as" often detracts from the overall clarity and flow of your writing. By understanding the function of this phrase and employing alternative introductory phrases or sentence restructuring, you can maintain a more polished and professional tone in your writing. Prioritize clear and concise sentence structures to ensure your writing is both grammatically correct and easily understood by your readers. Remember that strong writing prioritizes both accuracy and elegance.