LoginSubordinating Conjunctions
In this lesson, master subordinating conjunctions to connect dependent clauses to main clauses using combinations like "because," "although," and "if." Clear explanations and practice exercises to help you learn.
What Are Subordinating Conjunctions?
Subordinating conjunctions are words or phrases used to join a dependent (subordinate) clause to an independent (main) clause. They are used to add information to the main clause by specifying the time, place, reason, condition, etc. of the action.
Subordinating Conjunctions: Functions
Subordinating conjunctions provide a link between two ideas in the same sentence. This link expresses a place, time, or cause-and-effect relationship between the two clauses. Take a look at some examples:
He'll call you after they're done talking.
Because it was raining, we couldn't go to the park.
The subordinating conjunctions are used to express:
Cause and effect
Concession and Contrast
Condition
Time
Place
Cause and Effect
'Cause and effect conjunctions' are used to express why an event happens or what is its result. Every conjunction that can express such meaning belongs to this group. The most common cause-and-effect conjunctions are:
Now take a look at some examples:
Since I did not do the assignment, the teacher is going to be really angry.
As Ken was not home, nobody answered the door.
Since you asked, I'm going to give you an answer.
Time
The subordinating conjunctions used to indicate a temporal relationship between clauses are called time conjunctions. Here are the most common ones:
Here are some examples:
I will call you when the class is finished
Before I left, I told mom to call you.
I will tell you everything once you manage to come over.
Concession and Contrast
Concession and contrast conjunctions indicate that something has happened despite an obstacle or circumstance. The most common subordinating conjunctions of contrast are:
Though she said nothing, I was sure she was mad at me.
While it's not the most ideal option, it will solve the problem.
Even though everyone played well, we lost the game.
Place
'Subordinating conjunctions of place' describe the relationship between places or locations. Here are the most common ones:
Here are some examples:
She carries her sketchbook wherever she goes.
I'll go where you go.
There was music everywhere the festival spread.
Condition
Conditional conjunctions are used to express a condition that must be met in order for something else to occur. For example:
Take a look at some examples:
In case you're not home, leave the spare key under the doormat.
If you want, I will send you an email about the subject.
As long as he stays here, I will never ever step into the house.
Placement and Punctuation
If the clause introduces by subordinating conjunctions comes at the beginning of the sentence, a comma must come between the dependent and the main clause. However, if the main clause comes first, no comma is needed.
Turn off the lights before you go out.
no comma
Before you go out, turn off the lights.
When the subordinate clause comes first, a comma must follow it.
Review
Subordinate conjunctions are words that are used to introduce subordinate clauses. They connect the independent clause to the dependent clause and add information about the time, place, reason, etc. of the action of the verb
The most commonly used subordinate conjunctions in English are:
Because/Since/As
Before/After
Once/When/While
Although/Though/Even though
As long as/Unless/If
Where/Wherever
Quiz:
Which sentence contains a subordinating conjunction showing cause and effect?
I'll wait here until you arrive.
Since you missed the meeting, we'll discuss it tomorrow.
Wherever he goes, trouble follows.
Even though I studied, I still forgot some answers.
Match each sentence to the function of its subordinating conjunction.
Which conjunction can complete this sentence to express a condition? "....... you see a red flag, leave the beach immediately."
unless
if
though
as
Fill each blank with the appropriate subordinating conjunction. (There is one extra option.)
the instructions were unclear, engineers solved the problem creatively.
you finish the prerequisites, you can't enroll in advanced courses.
the bridge was closed, we took a detour through the valley.
Call me
you arrive.
Sort the words to form a correct sentence.
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