Subordinating Conjunctions: Definition, Usage, and Examples

Understanding subordinating conjunctions is crucial for constructing complex and nuanced sentences in English. These essential grammatical tools allow you to connect ideas, show relationships between clauses, and add depth to your writing.

This article provides a comprehensive guide to subordinating conjunctions, covering their definition, types, usage rules, common mistakes, and advanced applications. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced learner, this guide will equip you with the knowledge and practice you need to master subordinating conjunctions.

This article will be beneficial to English language learners of all levels, from those just starting to construct simple sentences to advanced writers looking to refine their style. Native English speakers who want to solidify their understanding of grammar will also find it useful.

By the end of this guide, you’ll be able to identify, use, and understand subordinating conjunctions with confidence.

Definition of Subordinating Conjunctions
Structural Breakdown
Types of Subordinating Conjunctions
Examples of Subordinating Conjunctions
Usage Rules of Subordinating Conjunctions
Common Mistakes with Subordinating Conjunctions
Practice Exercises
Advanced Topics
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Conclusion

Definition of Subordinating Conjunctions

A subordinating conjunction is a word or phrase that connects a subordinate (dependent) clause to a main (independent) clause. The subordinating conjunction introduces the dependent clause and indicates the relationship between the two clauses. The dependent clause cannot stand alone as a complete sentence; it relies on the main clause for its meaning. Subordinating conjunctions are essential for creating complex sentences that express nuanced relationships between ideas.

Subordinating conjunctions perform several key functions. First, they connect a dependent clause to an independent clause, forming a complex sentence.

Second, they indicate the specific relationship between the two clauses, such as time, cause, condition, or contrast. Finally, they transform a clause into a dependent clause, making it unable to stand alone.

Consider this example: Because it was raining, I took my umbrella. In this sentence, “because” is the subordinating conjunction. It connects the dependent clause “because it was raining” to the independent clause “I took my umbrella.” The subordinating conjunction “because” also indicates the cause-and-effect relationship between the two clauses. Without the independent clause, the dependent clause would be incomplete: *”Because it was raining.”*

Structural Breakdown

The basic structure of a complex sentence using a subordinating conjunction is as follows:

[Subordinating Conjunction + Dependent Clause] + [Independent Clause]

[Independent Clause] + [Subordinating Conjunction + Dependent Clause]

When the dependent clause comes before the independent clause, a comma usually separates the two clauses. When the independent clause comes first, a comma is generally not needed.

Let’s break down another example: Although he was tired, he continued to work.

Subordinating Conjunction: Although
Dependent Clause: Although he was tired
Independent Clause: He continued to work

In this case, the dependent clause comes first, so a comma separates it from the independent clause. Now, let’s reverse the order:

He continued to work although he was tired.

Independent Clause: He continued to work
Subordinating Conjunction: although
Dependent Clause: although he was tired

Here, the independent clause comes first, and no comma is needed.

Types of Subordinating Conjunctions

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 and effect, condition, contrast, purpose, place and manner.

Subordinating Conjunctions of Time

These conjunctions indicate when an action occurred or the duration of an action. Common time subordinating conjunctions include after, before, when, while, until, since, as, as soon as, whenever, and once.

Examples:

After the movie ended, we went for dinner.
I will call you when I arrive.
While I was studying, my roommate was watching TV.
We haven’t seen her since she moved to France.
As soon as I finish this report, I’ll take a break.

Subordinating Conjunctions of Cause and Effect

These conjunctions show the reason why something happened or the result of an action. Common cause-and-effect subordinating conjunctions include because, since, as, so that, and in order that.

Examples:

Because it was raining, the game was canceled.
Since you’re not feeling well, you should stay home.
As it was getting late, we decided to leave.
I study hard so that I can get good grades.
We saved money in order that we could travel to Europe.

Subordinating Conjunctions of Condition

These conjunctions express a condition that must be met for something else to happen. Common conditional subordinating conjunctions include if, unless, provided that, as long as, and in case.

Examples:

If it rains, we will stay inside.
Unless you study, you won’t pass the exam.
You can borrow my car provided that you return it by tomorrow.
As long as you’re happy, I’m happy.
Take an umbrella in case it rains.

Subordinating Conjunctions of Contrast

These conjunctions show a difference or opposition between two ideas. Common contrast subordinating conjunctions include although, though, even though, whereas, while, and even if.

Examples:

Although it was cold, she went for a walk.
Though he is rich, he is not happy.
Even though I was tired, I finished the project.
Whereas my brother likes coffee, I prefer tea.
While some people enjoy city life, others prefer the countryside.
Even if it’s difficult, I will try my best.

Subordinating Conjunctions of Purpose

These conjunctions indicate the reason or intention behind an action. Common purpose subordinating conjunctions include so that, in order that, lest.

Examples:

I exercise regularly so that I can stay healthy.
She studied hard in order that she could pass the exam.
He locked the door lest someone should enter uninvited.

Subordinating Conjunctions of Place

These conjunctions indicate a location or position. Common place subordinating conjunctions include where, wherever.

Examples:

I will go where you go.
Wherever you travel, you will find new experiences.

Subordinating Conjunctions of Manner

These conjunctions indicate how something is done. Common manner subordinating conjunctions include as, as if, as though.

Examples:

Do as I say.
He acted as if he knew everything.
She looked as though she had seen a ghost.

Examples of Subordinating Conjunctions

The following tables provide extensive examples of subordinating conjunctions categorized by type, illustrating their usage in various contexts. Each table includes at least twenty examples, demonstrating the versatility and importance of these conjunctions in constructing complex sentences.

Table 1: Time Subordinating Conjunctions

This table showcases examples using time subordinating conjunctions. Notice how each conjunction helps to establish a temporal relationship between the main and subordinate clauses.

Subordinating Conjunction	Example Sentence
After	After the rain stopped, the sun came out.
Before	Before you leave, please turn off the lights.
When	When I finish work, I will go to the gym.
While	While I was cooking, my phone rang.
Until	I will wait until you are ready.
Since	I haven’t seen him since he moved away.
As	As I walked down the street, I saw a friend.
As soon as	As soon as I get home, I will call you.
Whenever	Whenever I feel stressed, I listen to music.
Once	Once you start, you can’t stop.
Till	Stay here till I return.
Ere	Ere the sun sets, we must be home.
Since	Since the day we met, my life has changed.
When	Call me when you are free.
While	While you are here, enjoy the scenery.
After	After eating, we went for a walk.
Before	Think before you speak.
As	As time goes by, things change.
As long as	As long as you need me, I will be there.
Now that	Now that the semester is over, I can relax.
The moment	The moment I saw her, I knew.
Directly	Directly after the show, we left.

Table 2: Cause and Effect Subordinating Conjunctions

This table provides examples that show how cause-and-effect subordinating conjunctions are used to explain reasons and consequences.

Subordinating Conjunction	Example Sentence
Because	Because I was tired, I went to bed early.
Since	Since it’s raining, we should stay inside.
As	As the weather was bad, we canceled the trip.
So that	I exercise regularly so that I can stay healthy.
In order that	He studied hard in order that he could pass the exam.
Seeing that	Seeing that it’s late, we should leave.
Now that	Now that you’re here, let’s start the meeting.
Inasmuch as	Inasmuch as you are my friend, I will help you.
For	He must be home, for his car is in the driveway.
Considering that	Considering that he is new, he has done well.
Due to the fact that	Due to the fact that it rained, the event was postponed.
On account of	On account of the traffic, I was late.
Because of the fact that	Because of the fact that he helped, we succeeded.
As long as	I will support you as long as you need me.
So	It was cold, so I wore a coat.
Thus	The evidence was clear, thus he was found guilty.
Consequently	He didn’t study, consequently he failed.
Therefore	She is qualified, therefore she was hired.
Hence	The price increased, hence demand decreased.
For that reason	He was tired; for that reason, he slept early.
Accordingly	The rules were changed; accordingly, we adapted.

Table 3: Condition Subordinating Conjunctions

This table demonstrates the use of conditional subordinating conjunctions, showing how they set the stage for different outcomes based on specific conditions.

Subordinating Conjunction	Example Sentence
If	If I win the lottery, I will travel the world.
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’re happy, I’m happy.
In case	Take an umbrella in case it rains.
Assuming that	Assuming that the weather is good, we’ll have a picnic.
On condition that	I will agree on condition that you help me.
Supposing that	Supposing that you were rich, what would you do?
Even if	Even if it’s difficult, I will try my best.
Only if	Only if you ask nicely will I help you.
Whether or not	I’m going whether or not you come.
In the event that	In the event that there is a fire, use the stairs.
So long as	So long as you promise, I will trust you.
Given that	Given that the circumstances, we must act.
Lest	He ran fast, lest he should be late.
Assuming	Assuming you have the skills, you’ll get hired.
Given	Given the time, we should hurry.
Providing	Providing the weather is good, we will go.
Conditional on	The deal is conditional on approval.
Unless otherwise stated	Unless otherwise stated, the meeting is at 3.
Insofar as	Insofar as it depends on me, it will succeed.

Table 4: Contrast Subordinating Conjunctions

This table provides examples demonstrating how contrast subordinating conjunctions are used to highlight differences or oppositions between ideas.

Subordinating Conjunction	Example Sentence
Although	Although it was raining, she went for a walk.
Though	Though he is rich, he is not happy.
Even though	Even though I was tired, I finished the project.
Whereas	Whereas my brother likes coffee, I prefer tea.
While	While some people enjoy city life, others prefer the countryside.
Even if	Even if it’s difficult, I will try my best.
Despite the fact that	Despite the fact that he was ill, he attended the meeting.
In spite of the fact that	In spite of the fact that it was expensive, she bought it.
While	While I like apples, my sister prefers oranges.
Conversely	He loves summer; conversely, she loves winter.
However	It was a tough game; however, we won.
Nevertheless	It was raining; nevertheless, we continued.
Nonetheless	He was tired; nonetheless, he kept working.
Regardless of	I will go regardless of the weather.
Notwithstanding	Notwithstanding the difficulties, we succeeded.
In contrast	In contrast to her, he is very quiet.
On the other hand	I like coffee; on the other hand, I love tea.
But	I wanted to go, but I was busy.
Yet	He is strong, yet gentle.
Still	It was late, still she kept working.
Albeit	He tried, albeit unsuccessfully.

Table 5: Place Subordinating Conjunctions

This table illustrates place subordinating conjunctions and shows how they specify locations or directions in sentences.

Subordinating Conjunction	Example Sentence
Where	I will go where you go.
Wherever	Wherever you travel, you will find new experiences.
Everywhere	Everywhere I look, I see beauty.
Anywhere	You can sit anywhere you like.
Somewhere	Somewhere over the rainbow, dreams come true.
Whither	Whither shall I turn for help?

Usage Rules of Subordinating Conjunctions

There are several key rules to follow when using subordinating conjunctions:

Placement: Subordinating conjunctions always introduce the dependent clause. The dependent clause can come before or after the independent clause.
Comma Usage: When the dependent clause comes before the independent clause, use a comma to separate the two clauses. When the independent clause comes first, a comma is usually not needed.
Clarity: Ensure that the relationship between the clauses is clear and logical. Choose the appropriate subordinating conjunction to accurately convey the intended meaning.
Avoid Sentence Fragments: A dependent clause introduced by a subordinating conjunction cannot stand alone as a complete sentence. It must be connected to an independent clause.
Correct Tense: Maintain consistent verb tenses within the sentence to ensure grammatical accuracy.

For example, consider the following sentences:

Correct: Because I studied hard, I passed the exam. (Comma used because the dependent clause comes first)
Correct: I passed the exam because I studied hard. (No comma needed because the independent clause comes first)
Incorrect: Because I studied hard. (Sentence fragment)

Common Mistakes with Subordinating Conjunctions

Several common mistakes can occur when using subordinating conjunctions. Being aware of these errors can help you avoid them.

Mistake 1: Using a comma incorrectly

Incorrect: I went to the store, because I needed milk.
Correct: I went to the store because I needed milk.

Mistake 2: Creating a sentence fragment

Incorrect: Although it was raining.
Correct: Although it was raining, we still went for a walk.

Mistake 3: Choosing the wrong conjunction

Incorrect: Since I finish my homework, I will go to the park. (Incorrect use of “since” for time)
Correct: After I finish my homework, I will go to the park.

Mistake 4: Incorrect verb tense

Incorrect: If I will have time, I will visit you.
Correct: If I have time, I will visit you.

Mistake 5: Misplacing the subordinating conjunction

Incorrect: I like to eat pizza, because it is delicious I think.
Correct: Because I think it is delicious, I like to eat pizza.

Practice Exercises

Test your understanding of subordinating conjunctions with the following exercises. Each exercise focuses on different aspects of subordinating conjunction usage.

Exercise 1: Identifying Subordinating Conjunctions

Identify the subordinating conjunction in each sentence.

Question	Answer
1. After the movie, we went for ice cream.	After
2. Because it was cold, I wore a jacket.	Because
3. If it rains, we will stay home.	If
4. Although he was tired, he kept working.	Although
5. I will go where you go.	Where
6. Since you asked, I will tell you.	Since
7. As soon as I arrive, I’ll call you.	As soon as
8. Unless you study, you will fail.	Unless
9. Even though it was late, she kept reading.	Even though
10. Wherever you go, I will follow.	Wherever

Exercise 2: Completing Sentences with Subordinating Conjunctions

Complete each sentence with an appropriate subordinating conjunction.

Question	Answer
1. ______ it was raining, we took our umbrellas.	Because
2. I will call you ______ I arrive.	When
3. ______ you study hard, you will pass the exam.	If
4. ______ he is rich, he is not happy.	Although
5. I will go ______ you go.	Where
6. I haven’t seen her _____ she left.	Since
7. _______ I finished my work, I went home.	After
8. You won’t succeed _______ you try.	Unless
9. _______ she was tired, she went to bed.	Because
10. _______ you are, I will find you.	Wherever

Exercise 3: Correcting Sentences with Subordinating Conjunctions

Correct the following sentences, which contain errors in the use of subordinating conjunctions.

Question	Answer
1. I went to the store, because I needed milk.	I went to the store because I needed milk.
2. Although it was raining. We still went for a walk.	Although it was raining, we still went for a walk.
3. Since I finish my homework, I will go to the park.	After I finish my homework, I will go to the park.
4. If I will have time, I will visit you.	If I have time, I will visit you.
5. I like to eat pizza, because it is delicious I think.	Because I think it is delicious, I like to eat pizza.
6. Because the weather was bad, I am staying inside.	Because the weather was bad, I am staying inside.
7. Although he tried, but he failed.	Although he tried, he failed.
8. Unless you don’t study, you will fail.	Unless you study, you will fail.
9. Even though I was tired, but I kept working.	Even though I was tired, I kept working.
10. Because it rained. The game was canceled.	Because it rained, the game was canceled.

Advanced Topics

For advanced learners, understanding the nuances of subordinating conjunctions can further enhance your writing skills. This section explores more complex aspects of their usage.

Elliptical Clauses: In some cases, parts of the dependent clause can be omitted if the meaning is clear from the context. This is known as an elliptical clause.

Example: While (I was) walking down the street, I saw a friend.

Subordinating Conjunctions with Reduced Clauses: You can sometimes reduce a dependent clause to a shorter phrase by using a participle.

Example: Instead of saying “Because I was tired,” you can say “Being tired, I went to bed early.”

Varying Sentence Structure: To create more engaging and varied writing, experiment with different sentence structures using subordinating conjunctions. Avoid starting every sentence with the same structure.

Using Subordinating Conjunctions for Emphasis: Subordinating conjunctions can also be used to emphasize certain ideas or create a specific tone in your writing.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Here are some frequently asked questions about subordinating conjunctions:

What is the difference between a coordinating conjunction and a subordinating conjunction?
Coordinating conjunctions (such as and, but, or) connect two independent clauses or words/phrases of equal grammatical rank. Subordinating conjunctions connect a dependent clause to an independent clause, making one clause subordinate to the other.
Can a sentence start with a subordinating conjunction?
Yes, a sentence can start with a subordinating conjunction. When the dependent clause comes first, it is followed by a comma before the independent clause.
Do I always need a comma when using a subordinating conjunction?
No, you only need a comma when the dependent clause comes before the independent clause. If the independent clause comes first, a comma is generally not needed.
What are some common subordinating conjunctions?
Some common subordinating conjunctions include after, before, when, because, if, although, though, since, until, while, where, wherever, as, as soon as, even though, unless, provided that, so that, in order that.
Can I use multiple subordinating conjunctions in one sentence?
Yes, you can use multiple subordinating conjunctions in one sentence, but ensure that the sentence remains clear and grammatically correct. Complex sentences can contain multiple dependent clauses linked to the main clause.
What is a dependent clause?
A dependent clause is a group of words that contains a subject and a verb but cannot stand alone as a complete sentence. It relies on an independent clause for its meaning.
Are ‘that’, ‘which’, and ‘who’ considered subordinating conjunctions?
No, ‘that’, ‘which’, and ‘who’ are relative pronouns. They introduce relative clauses, not subordinate clauses. Relative clauses function as adjectives, modifying nouns, while subordinate clauses perform adverbial or nominal functions.
How do I choose the correct subordinating conjunction for my sentence?
Consider the relationship you want to express between the clauses. Do you want to show time, cause, condition, contrast, purpose, place, or manner? Choose the conjunction that best reflects that relationship. If you want to express a cause, use ‘because’ or ‘since’. If you want to indicate a condition, use ‘if’ or ‘unless’.

Conclusion

Mastering subordinating conjunctions is essential for constructing complex and effective sentences in English. By understanding their definition, types, usage rules, and common mistakes, you can significantly improve your writing skills.

Remember to practice using these conjunctions in various contexts to solidify your understanding and enhance your ability to express nuanced relationships between ideas.

Continue practicing with exercises, reading examples, and paying attention to how subordinating conjunctions are used in written and spoken English. With consistent effort, you’ll become proficient in using these essential grammatical tools, leading to clearer, more sophisticated, and more engaging communication.

Happy writing!

Subordinating Conjunctions: Definition, Usage, and Examples

Table of Contents

Definition of Subordinating Conjunctions

Structural Breakdown