What Is a Subordinating Conjunction?
A subordinating conjunction connects a dependent clause to an independent clause, establishing a relationship between the two.
It helps clarify the relationship in terms of time, cause and effect, condition, or contrast, making your sentences more detailed and informative.
Examples include words like because, although, since, and if.
What are Subordinating Conjunctions?
Subordinating conjunctions link dependent clauses to independent clauses, providing a relationship between the two.
Common subordinating conjunctions include because, although, since, and if. These conjunctions help explain why, when, or under what conditions something happens.
Examples:
Because she was late, she missed the bus.
Although it was raining, they went for a walk.
Since you asked, I will explain.
If you study hard, you will succeed.
Even though he was sick, he went to work.
Whenever I see her, I smile.
Types of Subordinating Conjunctions
Time-related Conjunctions
Time-related conjunctions indicate when something happens. Common examples include when, while, before, after, and until.
Examples:
When the sun sets, we will leave.
While you were sleeping, it snowed.
Before he arrived, the meeting had started.
After the movie, we went for dinner.
We can wait here until they call us.
As soon as she finishes her homework, she can go out.
Cause and Effect Conjunctions
Cause and effect conjunctions show why something happens. Common examples are because, since, and as.
Examples:
Because it was late, we decided to stay home.
Since you’re here, let’s start the meeting.
As it was snowing, the roads were closed.
Now that you mention it, I remember the event.
Inasmuch as we can, we will help you.
Condition Conjunctions
Condition conjunctions describe a condition that must be met. Common examples include if, unless, and provided that.
Examples:
If it rains, we will cancel the picnic.
Unless you try, you will never know.
You can go out, provided that you finish your homework.
If only you had told me earlier, I could have helped.
In case of emergency, call this number.
Contrast Conjunctions
Contrast conjunctions show a contrast or difference. Common examples include although, though, and even though.
Examples:
Although it was cold, they went swimming.
Though he was tired, he continued working.
Even though she was nervous, she gave a great presentation.
While he is strict, he is also fair.
Whereas she prefers tea, he likes coffee.
Forming Complex Sentences with Subordinating Conjunctions
Complex sentences combine an independent clause with a dependent clause using a subordinating conjunction. The basic structure is: independent clause + subordinating conjunction + dependent clause.
Examples:
Independent clause: The team won the match.
Dependent clause: because they trained hard.
Combined:
The team won the match because they trained hard.
Additional Examples:
She left the party early although she was having fun.
He decided to go for a walk while the weather was nice.
We will go on a trip provided that everyone agrees.
Tips for correct usage:
Place the subordinating conjunction at the beginning of the dependent clause.
Ensure the dependent clause adds meaningful information to the independent clause.
Avoid starting every sentence with a subordinating conjunction to maintain variety in your writing.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Overusing Certain Subordinating Conjunctions
Overuse of specific conjunctions can make writing repetitive. Vary your use of subordinating conjunctions to keep your writing engaging.
Misplacing the Subordinating Conjunction in a Sentence
Ensure the subordinating conjunction is correctly placed to maintain sentence clarity. A misplaced conjunction can confuse the reader.
Incorrect:
The team won the match they trained hard because.
Correct:
The team won the match because they trained hard.
Mixing Up Subordinating Conjunctions with Coordinating Conjunctions
Subordinating conjunctions connect clauses with different levels of importance, while coordinating conjunctions connect clauses of equal importance. Ensure you use the correct type for your sentence structure.
Incorrect:
He likes pizza, although she likes pasta.
Correct:
He likes pizza, and she likes pasta.
Practice Exercises and Examples
Fill in the Blanks
She will call you ______ she arrives. (when)
______ you help me, I can finish this project. (If)
We stayed inside ______ it was raining. (because)
He was promoted ______ he worked hard. (because)
I will wait here ______ you finish your task. (until)
Multiple-choice Questions
Which conjunction fits best? "He couldn’t go out ______ he finished his homework." a) if b) because c) although
Identify the subordinating conjunction: "We stayed inside because it was raining."
because
Real-life Examples
When I wake up, I will make coffee.
Because it’s Friday, we are going out for dinner.
If you need help, please ask.
Although he was tired, he continued working.
Until you return, I will manage things here.