Understanding subordinating conjunctions is crucial for constructing complex and nuanced sentences in English. These words act as bridges, connecting dependent clauses to independent clauses, adding depth and context to your writing and speech.
Mastering subordinating conjunctions allows you to express relationships of time, cause, condition, contrast, and more, making your communication more precise and effective. This article provides a comprehensive guide to subordinating conjunctions, suitable for English learners of all levels, from beginners to advanced speakers.
By the end of this guide, you’ll be able to identify, understand, and use subordinating conjunctions with confidence.
This article will benefit anyone who wants to improve their English grammar skills, especially those preparing for English proficiency tests, students writing essays, or professionals communicating in English. We will explore the definition of subordinating conjunctions, their various types, usage rules, common mistakes, and provide plenty of examples and practice exercises to solidify your understanding.
Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
- Definition of Subordinating Conjunctions
- Structural Breakdown
- Types and Categories
- Examples of Subordinating Conjunctions
- Usage Rules
- Common Mistakes
- Practice Exercises
- Advanced Topics
- FAQ
- Conclusion
Definition of Subordinating Conjunctions
A subordinating conjunction is a word or phrase that connects a dependent (or subordinate) clause to an independent (or main) clause. The subordinating conjunction indicates the relationship between the two clauses, clarifying how they are logically linked. Dependent clauses, introduced by subordinating conjunctions, cannot stand alone as complete sentences; they require an independent clause to form a complete thought.
Subordinating conjunctions are essential for creating complex sentences that express nuanced meanings. They provide context, explain reasons, specify conditions, and indicate time relationships within a sentence.
Without subordinating conjunctions, our ability to convey complex ideas would be severely limited.
For example, in the sentence “Because it was raining, I took my umbrella,” the word “because” is a subordinating conjunction. It connects the dependent clause “because it was raining” to the independent clause “I took my umbrella.” The subordinating conjunction “because” tells us the reason why I took my umbrella.
Structural Breakdown
The structure of a sentence with a subordinating conjunction typically follows one of these patterns:
- Dependent Clause + Comma + Independent Clause: When the dependent clause comes first, it is usually followed by a comma.
Example: After I finish my work, I will go to the gym. - Independent Clause + Subordinating Conjunction + Dependent Clause: When the independent clause comes first, a comma is generally not needed.
Example: I will go to the gym after I finish my work.
It’s important to note that the presence or absence of a comma can affect the readability of the sentence. While omitting the comma when the independent clause comes first is generally acceptable, using a comma can sometimes improve clarity, especially in longer sentences.
The dependent clause contains a subject and a verb but does not express a complete thought on its own. The independent clause also contains a subject and a verb and can stand alone as a complete sentence.
The subordinating conjunction acts as the glue that binds these two clauses together.
Types and Categories
Subordinating conjunctions can be categorized based on the type of relationship they express between the dependent and independent clauses. The most common categories include time, cause, condition, contrast, place, purpose, manner, and result.
Understanding these categories can help you choose the correct subordinating conjunction to convey your intended meaning.
Subordinating Conjunctions of Time
These conjunctions indicate when an action occurs in relation to another action. Common time conjunctions include: after, before, when, while, as, since, until, as soon as, whenever, once.
Example: Before I leave for work, I always make coffee.
Subordinating Conjunctions of Cause
These conjunctions explain the reason why something happened. Common cause conjunctions include: because, since, as, as long as, inasmuch as, now that.
Example: Because it was raining, the game was cancelled.
Subordinating Conjunctions of Condition
These conjunctions express a condition that must be met for something else to happen. Common condition conjunctions include: if, unless, provided that, as long as, in case, assuming that, even if.
Example: If you study hard, you will pass the exam.
Subordinating Conjunctions of Contrast
These conjunctions show a contrast or opposition between two ideas. Common contrast conjunctions include: although, though, even though, whereas, while.
Example: Although it was cold, I went for a walk.
Subordinating Conjunctions of Place
These conjunctions indicate the location where something happens. Common place conjunctions include: where, wherever.
Example: You can sit wherever you like.
Subordinating Conjunctions of Purpose
These conjunctions explain the reason or intention behind an action. Common purpose conjunctions include: so that, in order that.
Example: I study hard so that I can get good grades.
Subordinating Conjunctions of Manner
These conjunctions describe how something is done. Common manner conjunctions include: as, as if, as though.
Example: He acted as if nothing had happened.
Subordinating Conjunctions of Result
These conjunctions show the consequence of an action. Common result conjunctions include: so…that, such…that.
Example: It was so hot that I had to stay inside.
Examples of Subordinating Conjunctions
The following tables provide extensive examples of subordinating conjunctions in different contexts. Pay close attention to how each conjunction connects the dependent and independent clauses and the relationship it expresses.
Table 1: Examples of Subordinating Conjunctions of Time
This table showcases various sentences using subordinating conjunctions that indicate time. Each example provides a clear illustration of how these conjunctions connect actions occurring at different points in time or in sequence.
| Subordinating Conjunction | Example Sentence |
|---|---|
| After | After the rain stopped, we went for a walk. |
| Before | Before you leave, please turn off the lights. |
| When | When I arrive, I will call you. |
| While | While I was studying, my brother was watching TV. |
| As | As I was walking down the street, I saw an old friend. |
| Since | Since I moved here, I have been much happier. |
| Until | I will wait until you are ready. |
| As soon as | As soon as I finish this email, I will call you. |
| Whenever | Whenever I feel stressed, I listen to music. |
| Once | Once you start, you won’t want to stop. |
| As long as | You can stay as long as you like. |
| By the time | By the time we arrived, the movie had already started. |
| Immediately | Immediately after the bell rang, the students left the classroom. |
| Now that | Now that the semester is over, I can finally relax. |
| The moment | The moment I saw her, I knew she was the one. |
| The instant | The instant the alarm went off, I jumped out of bed. |
| Till | I will stay here till you come back. |
| Subsequent to | Subsequent to the meeting, we made some important decisions. |
| Simultaneously | Simultaneously as the sun set, the stars began to appear. |
| Scarcely…when | Scarcely had I sat down when the phone rang. |
| Hardly…when | Hardly had I closed my eyes when I fell asleep. |
| No sooner…than | No sooner had I arrived than it started to rain. |
| While | While he was cooking, she was setting the table. |
| As | As the day went on, the weather got worse. |
| Each time | Each time I visit, I learn something new. |
Table 2: Examples of Subordinating Conjunctions of Cause
This table provides examples of sentences using subordinating conjunctions to express cause-and-effect relationships. Each example clearly shows how the dependent clause explains the reason for the action in the independent clause.
| Subordinating Conjunction | Example Sentence |
|---|---|
| Because | Because I was tired, I went to bed early. |
| Since | Since you’re not feeling well, you should stay home. |
| As | As it was getting late, we decided to leave. |
| Now that | Now that the project is complete, we can relax. |
| Inasmuch as | Inasmuch as you are my friend, I will help you. |
| Seeing that | Seeing that everyone is here, let’s begin the meeting. |
| As long as | As long as you try your best, I will be happy. |
| For | He couldn’t see well, for he hadn’t his glasses on. |
| Considering that | Considering that he’s new to the company, he’s doing a great job. |
| Given that | Given that the weather is bad, we should postpone the trip. |
| On account of | On account of the heavy traffic, we were late for the meeting. |
| Due to the fact that | Due to the fact that the train was delayed, I missed my appointment. |
| Because of the fact that | Because of the fact that he studied hard, he got an A on the test. |
| Owing to the fact that | Owing to the fact that the store was closed, we couldn’t buy anything. |
| In view of the fact that | In view of the fact that the project is behind schedule, we need to work overtime. |
| On the grounds that | The lawyer argued the case on the grounds that the evidence was insufficient. |
| Since | Since you are offering, I will accept your help. |
| Considering | Considering his age, he is very active. |
| Being that | Being that it’s your birthday, we’ll let you choose the movie. |
| In that | The plan is good in that it addresses the key issues. |
| Seeing as | Seeing as it’s Friday, let’s go out for dinner. |
| As a result of | As a result of the storm, many trees were uprooted. |
| For the reason that | For the reason that he was sick, he didn’t come to work. |
Table 3: Examples of Subordinating Conjunctions of Condition
This table illustrates how subordinating conjunctions express conditions that determine the outcome of an action. Each example demonstrates a clear conditional relationship between the dependent and independent clauses.
| Subordinating Conjunction | Example Sentence |
|---|---|
| If | If it rains, we will stay inside. |
| Unless | Unless you hurry, you will miss the bus. |
| Provided that | You can borrow my car provided that you return it tomorrow. |
| As long as | As long as you promise to be careful, you can drive my car. |
| In case | Take an umbrella in case it rains. |
| Assuming that | Assuming that the weather is good, we will go to the beach. |
| Even if | Even if I am tired, I will go to the party. |
| Only if | Only if you have a ticket can you enter the concert. |
| Whether or not | I will go to the park whether or not it rains. |
| On condition that | I will tell you the secret on condition that you don’t tell anyone else. |
| So long as | So long as you have a valid license, you can rent a car. |
| Supposing that | Supposing that you won the lottery, what would you do? |
| In the event that | In the event that a fire breaks out, use the emergency exit. |
| Given that | Given that you have the necessary skills, you should apply for the job. |
| If and only if | A triangle is equilateral if and only if all its sides are equal. |
| Assuming | Assuming you have all the required documents, the process should be straightforward. |
| Considering that | Considering that he has little experience, he’s doing a great job. |
| Granting that | Granting that what you say is true, we still have a problem. |
| Subject to | The agreement is valid subject to approval by the board. |
Table 4: Examples of Subordinating Conjunctions of Contrast
This table showcases sentences using subordinating conjunctions to express contrasting ideas. Each example highlights the opposition between the dependent and independent clauses, creating a sense of contrast or concession.
| Subordinating Conjunction | Example Sentence |
|---|---|
| Although | Although it was raining, I went for a walk. |
| Though | Though he is rich, he is not happy. |
| Even though | Even though I was tired, I finished the work. |
| Whereas | Whereas some people like coffee, others prefer tea. |
| While | While I enjoy reading, my brother prefers watching movies. |
| Even if | Even if I try hard, I may not succeed. |
| Despite the fact that | Despite the fact that it was expensive, I bought the car. |
| In spite of the fact that | In spite of the fact that he was sick, he went to work. |
| While | While some argue for the benefits, others see the drawbacks. |
| Notwithstanding that | Notwithstanding that he was warned, he continued to take risks. |
| However much | However much I try, I can’t seem to understand this concept. |
| Whatever | Whatever the reason, I cannot support this decision. |
| Much as | Much as I admire her, I don’t agree with her policies. |
| Albeit | The project was a success, albeit a costly one. |
| If | He is intelligent, if somewhat lazy. |
| As | Rich as they are, they’re not happy. |
Table 5: Examples of Subordinating Conjunctions of Place
This table offers a few examples of subordinating conjunctions indicating location. These conjunctions specify where an action takes place.
| Subordinating Conjunction | Example Sentence |
|---|---|
| Where | I left my keys where I always leave them. |
| Wherever | You can sit wherever you like. |
| Anywhere | You can go anywhere you want. |
| Everywhere | He looked everywhere for his lost wallet. |
Usage Rules
When using subordinating conjunctions, it’s important to follow these rules:
- Comma Usage: Use a comma after the dependent clause when it comes before the independent clause. Do not use a comma when the independent clause comes first, unless clarity requires it.
- Sentence Structure: Ensure that both the dependent and independent clauses have a subject and a verb.
- Meaning: Choose the correct subordinating conjunction to accurately convey the relationship between the clauses.
- Clarity: Avoid ambiguity by placing the subordinating conjunction in the correct position within the sentence.
For instance, consider these examples:
- Correct: Because it was cold, I wore a coat. (Comma used after the dependent clause)
- Correct: I wore a coat because it was cold. (No comma needed)
- Incorrect: Because cold, I wore a coat. (Missing subject in the dependent clause)
Common Mistakes
Here are some common mistakes to avoid when using subordinating conjunctions:
- Misusing Commas: Incorrectly placing or omitting commas.
Incorrect: Because it was raining I took my umbrella.
Correct: Because it was raining, I took my umbrella. - Incorrect Word Choice: Using the wrong subordinating conjunction.
Incorrect: Although I was tired, so I went to bed.
Correct: Because I was tired, I went to bed. (or Although I was tired, I still went out.) - Fragmented Sentences: Leaving the dependent clause as a sentence fragment.
Incorrect: Because it was raining.
Correct: Because it was raining, I stayed home. - Double Conjunctions: Using two conjunctions to connect the same clauses.
Incorrect: Because since it was raining, I stayed home.
Correct: Because it was raining, I stayed home.
It is important to proofread your writing to identify and correct these common mistakes. Paying attention to sentence structure and comma usage can significantly improve the clarity and accuracy of your writing.
Practice Exercises
Test your understanding of subordinating conjunctions with these practice exercises.
Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks with the appropriate subordinating conjunction.
Complete the following sentences by choosing the correct subordinating conjunction from the list provided: because, if, although, when, since.
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| 1. _____ it was raining, we decided to stay home. | Because |
| 2. I will call you _____ I arrive. | When |
| 3. _____ you study hard, you will pass the exam. | If |
| 4. _____ I was tired, I went to bed early. | Because |
| 5. _____ I moved here, I have been much happier. | Since |
| 6. _____ he is rich, he is not happy. | Although |
| 7. We will go to the park _____ the weather is nice. | If |
| 8. I couldn’t sleep well _____ the neighbors were very noisy. | Because |
| 9. _____ she finishes her work, she will go to the gym. | When |
| 10. _____ they practiced hard, they lost the game. | Although |
Exercise 2: Combine the following sentences using a subordinating conjunction.
Combine each pair of sentences into a single sentence using an appropriate subordinating conjunction.
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| 1. It was cold. I wore a coat. | Because it was cold, I wore a coat. |
| 2. You study hard. You will pass the exam. | If you study hard, you will pass the exam. |
| 3. I arrive. I will call you. | When I arrive, I will call you. |
| 4. He is rich. He is not happy. | Although he is rich, he is not happy. |
| 5. The rain stopped. We went for a walk. | After the rain stopped, we went for a walk. |
| 6. The store was closed. We couldn’t buy anything. | Because the store was closed, we couldn’t buy anything. |
| 7. You are ready. I will wait for you. | Until you are ready, I will wait for you. |
| 8. He practices every day. He wants to improve his skills. | He practices every day so that he can improve his skills. |
| 9. She finishes her work. She will go to the gym. | When she finishes her work, she will go to the gym. |
| 10. The weather is nice. We will go to the beach. | If the weather is nice, we will go to the beach. |
Exercise 3: Identify the subordinating conjunction in each sentence.
Underline the subordinating conjunction in each of the following sentences.
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| 1. Because I was late, I missed the bus. | Because |
| 2. I will go if you come with me. | if |
| 3. Although it was difficult, I finished the task. | Although |
| 4. He arrived after the meeting had started. | after |
| 5. You can sit wherever you like. | wherever |
| 6. He acted as if nothing had happened. | as if |
| 7. Since you’re not busy, can you help me with this? | Since |
| 8. I will stay here until you return. | until |
| 9. She studies hard so that she can get good grades. | so that |
| 10. When the bell rings, the students will leave. | When |
Advanced Topics
For advanced learners, understanding implied or elliptical subordinating conjunctions can enhance comprehension. An elliptical clause is a clause where some words are omitted but understood from the context.
For example:
- “I’m taller than he is.” (Implied: than he is tall)
Also, understanding the difference between subordinating conjunctions and conjunctive adverbs is crucial for advanced writing. Conjunctive adverbs (e.g., however, therefore, moreover) connect two independent clauses and require a semicolon or a period to separate them.
FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions about subordinating conjunctions:
- What is the difference between a coordinating conjunction and a subordinating conjunction?
Coordinating conjunctions (and, but, or, nor, for, so, yet) connect words, phrases, or independent clauses of equal grammatical rank. Subordinating conjunctions connect a dependent clause to an independent clause, making one clause subordinate to the other.
- Do I always need a comma after a dependent clause?
A comma is generally required after a dependent clause when it precedes the independent clause. However, if the independent clause comes first, a comma is usually not necessary unless it improves clarity.
- Can I start a sentence with a subordinating conjunction?
Yes, you can start a sentence with a subordinating conjunction. When you do, the dependent clause should be followed by a comma before the independent clause begins.
- What if I’m not sure which subordinating conjunction to use?
Consider the relationship you want to express between the clauses. Is it a matter of time, cause, condition, contrast, or something else? Once you identify the relationship, you can choose the appropriate subordinating conjunction.
- Can a dependent clause come in the middle of a sentence?
Yes, a dependent clause can come in the middle of a sentence, but it’s less common. When it does, it is usually set off by commas if it provides non-essential information.
- Are there any subordinating conjunctions that can also be prepositions?
Yes, some words like after, before, since, until, and as can function as both subordinating conjunctions and prepositions. The difference lies in what follows the word. If a clause (subject + verb) follows, it’s a conjunction. If a noun or pronoun follows, it’s a preposition.
Example (conjunction): After the movie ended, we went home.
Example (preposition): After the movie, we went home.
- What is the difference between “since” as a conjunction of time and “since” as a conjunction of cause?
When “since” is used to indicate time, it refers to a point in the past from which something has continued. When “since” is used to indicate cause, it means “because.” Context usually makes the meaning clear.
Time: I have lived here since 2010.
Cause: Since you’re not feeling well, you should stay home.
- How do I avoid using too many complex sentences with subordinating conjunctions in my writing?
While complex sentences can add depth and nuance, overusing them can make your writing dense and difficult to read. Vary your sentence structure by using a mix of simple, compound, and complex sentences. Also, break up long sentences into shorter ones for better clarity.
Conclusion
Mastering subordinating conjunctions is essential for constructing clear, complex, and meaningful sentences in English. By understanding the different types of subordinating conjunctions and their usage rules, you can significantly improve your writing and speaking skills.
Remember to pay attention to comma usage, sentence structure, and word choice to avoid common mistakes. Practice using subordinating conjunctions in your own writing and speaking to solidify your understanding.
Keep practicing, and you’ll soon be able to use subordinating conjunctions with confidence and precision. With a solid grasp of subordinating conjunctions, you can express nuanced relationships between ideas and create more sophisticated and engaging communication.