Subordinating Conjunctions Examples

Subordinating conjunctions are words that connect an independent clause to a dependent clause, showing the relationship between them. They help indicate time, cause, condition, and more.

Here are some examples of subordinating conjunctions:

Time-Related Conjunctions

After:

  • She will call you after she finishes her homework.

As soon as:

  • We will leave as soon as you are ready.

Before:

  • He called me before he left the office.

Once:

  • Once the rain stops, we can go outside.

Since:

  • It has been raining since we got here.

Until:

  • They will stay until the concert ends.

When:

  • Call me when you get home.

Whenever:

  • You can visit us whenever you like.

While:

  • She listened to music while she cooked dinner.

By the time:

  • By the time we arrive, it will be dark.

Cause and Effect Conjunctions

Because:

  • She was late because she missed the bus.

Since:

  • Since it’s raining, we should stay indoors.

As:

  • As it was getting late, we decided to go home.

So that:

  • I studied hard so that I could pass the exam.

In order that:

  • He works extra hours in order that his family can have a better life.

Condition Conjunctions

If:

  • If it rains, we will cancel the picnic.

Unless:

  • I won’t go unless you come with me.

Provided that:

  • You can borrow my car provided that you return it by 6 PM.

As long as:

  • You can stay as long as you keep quiet.

Even if:

  • I will go even if it rains.

Concession Conjunctions

Although:

  • Although it was cold, we went swimming.

Even though:

  • Even though he was tired, he finished his work.

Though:

  • Though she was hungry, she didn’t eat.

While:

  • While I disagree with you, I respect your opinion.

Comparison Conjunctions

Than:

  • She is taller than her brother.

Rather than:

  • He chose to walk rather than take the bus.

As though:

  • He acted as though he knew everything.

Purpose Conjunctions

In order that:

  • She saved money in order that she could buy a car.

So that:

  • Turn the volume down so that I can hear you.

Other Useful Conjunctions

Lest:

  • He studied hard lest he should fail.

Now that:

  • Now that you mention it, I remember.

Suppose that:

  • Suppose that he calls, what should we do?

Considering that:

  • Considering that he’s new, he’s doing quite well.