Subordinating Conjunctions: Definition, Usage, and Examples
Understanding subordinating conjunctions is crucial for constructing complex and nuanced sentences in English. These words act as bridges, connecting dependent clauses to independent clauses and adding layers of meaning to your writing. This article will provide a comprehensive guide to subordinating conjunctions, covering their definition, types, usage rules, common mistakes, and advanced topics. Whether you are a student, a writer, or simply someone looking to improve their English grammar, this guide will equip you with the knowledge and skills to master subordinating conjunctions.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Definition of Subordinating Conjunctions
- Structural Breakdown
- Types of Subordinating Conjunctions
- Examples of Subordinating Conjunctions
- Usage Rules for 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 dependent (or subordinate) clause to an independent (or main) clause. The subordinating conjunction introduces the dependent clause, indicating its relationship to the independent clause. In essence, it transforms the clause into an adverbial clause, modifying the main clause by providing additional information about time, cause, condition, contrast, place, purpose, or manner.
Subordinating conjunctions are essential for creating complex sentences that express intricate relationships between ideas. They allow writers and speakers to avoid using simple, choppy sentences and instead construct sentences that are more sophisticated and informative. Recognizing and using subordinating conjunctions correctly is a key skill for effective communication in English.
Structural Breakdown
Sentences with subordinating conjunctions follow a specific structure. The basic pattern is:
Subordinating Conjunction + Dependent Clause + , + Independent Clause (when the dependent clause comes first)
Independent Clause + Subordinating Conjunction + Dependent Clause (when the independent clause comes first)
When the dependent clause comes before the independent clause, a comma is usually required to separate the two clauses. However, when the independent clause comes first, a comma is generally not needed.
Let’s break down an example:
Because it was raining, I took my umbrella.
In this sentence:
- “Because” is the subordinating conjunction.
- “Because it was raining” is the dependent clause.
- “I took my umbrella” is the independent clause.
Alternatively, we can write:
I took my umbrella because it was raining.
Here, no comma is needed because the independent clause comes first.
Types of Subordinating Conjunctions
Subordinating conjunctions can be categorized based on the type of relationship they establish between the dependent and independent clauses. Here are some common categories:
Subordinating Conjunctions of Time
These conjunctions indicate when an action or event occurs. Common examples include after, before, when, while, since, until, as, whenever, as soon as, once.
Subordinating Conjunctions of Cause and Effect
These conjunctions explain why something happened. Common examples include because, since, as, so that, in order that.
Subordinating Conjunctions of Condition
These conjunctions describe a condition that must be met for something else to happen. Common examples include if, unless, provided that, as long as, in case.
Subordinating Conjunctions of Contrast
These conjunctions show a difference or opposition between two ideas. Common examples include although, though, even though, whereas, while.
Subordinating Conjunctions of Place
These conjunctions indicate the location where something happens. Common examples include where, wherever.
Subordinating Conjunctions of Purpose
These conjunctions explain the reason for doing something. Common examples include so that, in order that, lest.
Subordinating Conjunctions of Manner
These conjunctions describe how something is done. Common examples include as, as if, as though.
Examples of Subordinating Conjunctions
The following tables provide extensive examples of subordinating conjunctions in sentences, categorized by type. Each table provides at least 20 examples to illustrate the diverse usage of these conjunctions.
Table 1: Examples of Subordinating Conjunctions of Time
This table showcases how subordinating conjunctions of time are used to specify when an action occurs.
| Subordinating Conjunction | Example Sentence |
|---|---|
| After | After the movie ended, we went for ice cream. |
| Before | Before you leave, please turn off the lights. |
| When | When I finish my work, I will go to the gym. |
| While | While I was cooking, the phone rang. |
| Since | Since I moved here, I’ve been much happier. |
| Until | I will wait until you arrive. |
| As | As I walked down the street, I saw a friend. |
| Whenever | Whenever I feel stressed, I listen to music. |
| As soon as | As soon as the bell rings, you can leave. |
| Once | Once you start, you can’t stop. |
| Till | I will stay here till the rain stops. |
| Now that | Now that the semester is over, I can relax. |
| Ere | Ere the sun sets, we must reach the village. |
| Directly | Directly the concert finished, the crowd dispersed. |
| Immediately | Immediately I saw her, I knew something was wrong. |
| The moment | The moment I stepped inside, I felt at home. |
| The instant | The instant he heard the news, he burst into tears. |
| While | While he studied, she cleaned the house. |
| As long as | You can borrow my car as long as you return it by tomorrow. |
| By the time | By the time we arrived, the party was already over. |
| Each time | Each time I visit, I learn something new. |
| Every time | Every time he sings, he captivates the audience. |
| Since | Since graduating, she has traveled the world. |
Table 2: Examples of Subordinating Conjunctions of Cause and Effect
This table illustrates how subordinating conjunctions of cause and effect connect actions with their reasons or results.
| Subordinating Conjunction | Example Sentence |
|---|---|
| Because | Because it was cold, I wore a jacket. |
| Since | Since you’re already here, you can help me. |
| As | As it was getting late, we decided to go home. |
| So that | I study hard so that I can get good grades. |
| In order that | He exercised in order that he could stay healthy. |
| Seeing that | Seeing that it’s raining, we should stay inside. |
| Now that | Now that you’re here, we can start the meeting. |
| Inasmuch as | Inasmuch as you’re willing to help, we can finish this quickly. |
| For | She rested, for she was tired. |
| As long as | I can help you as long as you’re patient. |
| Due to the fact that | Due to the fact that the road was icy, the accident occurred. |
| On account of | On account of the rain, the game was canceled. |
| Considering that | Considering that he’s new, he’s doing well. |
| Given that | Given that the evidence is clear, we must take action. |
| As a result of | As a result of the storm, the power went out. |
| Consequently | He didn’t study; consequently, he failed the exam. |
| Accordingly | The plan was well-prepared; accordingly, it succeeded. |
| Hence | The data is incomplete; hence, we cannot draw conclusions. |
| Since | Since everyone agreed, we moved forward with the project. |
| Because of the fact that | Because of the fact that he was late, he missed the presentation. |
| Owing to the fact that | Owing to the fact that the demand was high, prices increased. |
| In view of the fact that | In view of the fact that he’s experienced, he’s the best candidate. |
| On the grounds that | The case was dismissed on the grounds that there was insufficient evidence. |
Table 3: Examples of Subordinating Conjunctions of Condition
This table demonstrates how subordinating conjunctions of condition set the stage for possible outcomes.
| Subordinating Conjunction | Example Sentence |
|---|---|
| If | If it rains, we will stay home. |
| Unless | Unless you hurry, you’ll miss the bus. |
| Provided that | You can go provided that you’re back by 10 PM. |
| As long as | As long as you promise to be careful, you can borrow my car. |
| 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’ll lend you the book on condition that you return it soon. |
| Supposing that | Supposing that he calls, what should I say? |
| Even if | Even if it’s difficult, I will try my best. |
| Only if | Only if you study hard will you pass the exam. |
| Whether or not | Whether or not you agree, I’m going ahead with the plan. |
| Lest | Study hard, lest you fail. |
| In the event that | In the event that there’s an emergency, call 911. |
| So long as | So long as you follow the rules, you’ll be fine. |
| Given that | Given that he’s qualified, he’s likely to get the job. |
| Once | Once you start, there’s no turning back. |
| Whenever | Whenever you need help, feel free to ask. |
| As if | He acts as if he knows everything. |
| Unless | Unless you apologize, I won’t forgive you. |
| If only | If only I had studied harder! |
| In so far as | In so far as it is possible, we will help you. |
| While | While I agree with your intentions, I disagree with your methods. |
| As | As long as you understand, I’m happy. |
Table 4: Examples of Subordinating Conjunctions of Contrast
This table highlights how subordinating conjunctions of contrast are used to present differing viewpoints or situations.
| Subordinating Conjunction | Example Sentence |
|---|---|
| Although | Although it was raining, we went for a walk. |
| Though | Though he was tired, he kept working. |
| Even though | Even though I don’t like coffee, I drink it to stay awake. |
| Whereas | Some people like coffee, whereas others prefer tea. |
| While | While I agree with you in principle, I disagree with your methods. |
| Even if | Even if I’m busy, I’ll make time for you. |
| Notwithstanding that | Notwithstanding that it was expensive, he bought the car. |
| Despite the fact that | Despite the fact that he was sick, he went to work. |
| In spite of the fact that | In spite of the fact that it was raining, the game continued. |
| However much | However much I try, I can’t seem to succeed. |
| Where | He is diligent where his brother is lazy. |
| If | If it is difficult, it is also rewarding. |
| While | She enjoys reading while he prefers sports. |
| As | Poor as he is, he is happy. |
| Much as | Much as I like you, I can’t agree with you on this. |
| For all that | For all that he is rich, he is not happy. |
| Nonetheless | He was tired; nonetheless, he continued working. |
| Nevertheless | It was raining; nevertheless, they went for a walk. |
| On the contrary | He didn’t fail; on the contrary, he excelled. |
| Conversely | Some people are extroverts; conversely, others are introverts. |
| Instead of | Instead of complaining, try to fix the problem. |
| Rather than | Rather than argue, let’s find a compromise. |
| Whereas | She is optimistic, whereas he is pessimistic. |
Table 5: Examples of Subordinating Conjunctions of Place
This table provides examples of subordinating conjunctions indicating location.
| Subordinating Conjunction | Example Sentence |
|---|---|
| Where | I’ll go where you go. |
| Wherever | Wherever you are, I’ll find you. |
| Whereabouts | I don’t know whereabouts she lives. |
| Anywhere | You can sit anywhere you like. |
| Everywhere | Everywhere I look, I see beauty. |
| Somewhere | Let’s go somewhere quiet. |
| Whereupon | He tripped, whereupon he fell. |
| Wherefore | Wherefore art thou Romeo? |
| Whereafter | The ceremony took place, whereafter the reception began. |
| Whereby | This the method whereby we can achieve success. |
| Wherein | This is the book wherein the secret is revealed. |
| Whereunto | He knew not whereunto he was headed. |
| Wherewith | He had no money wherewith to buy food. |
| Wherewithal | They lacked the wherewithal to complete the project. |
| Whither | Whither shall we go? |
| Here | Here she stands, the queen. |
| There | There he goes, running away. |
| Yonder | Yonder lies the castle. |
| In which | This is the room in which the meeting will be held. |
| At which | This is the place at which the accident occurred. |
| To which | This is the road to which we must travel. |
| From which | This is the city from which he came. |
| On which | This is the table on which the food is served. |
Usage Rules for Subordinating Conjunctions
Several key rules govern the use of subordinating conjunctions:
- Comma Usage: As mentioned earlier, use a comma after the dependent clause when it precedes the independent clause.
- Clause Order: The order of the clauses can be changed, but the meaning and emphasis may shift.
- Tense Consistency: Ensure that the tenses in both clauses are logically related.
- Avoid Sentence Fragments: A dependent clause cannot stand alone as a sentence. It must be connected to an independent clause.
- Choice of Conjunction: Select the conjunction that accurately reflects the relationship between the clauses.
It’s important to choose the correct subordinating conjunction to convey the intended meaning. For instance, using “because” instead of “although” can completely change the meaning of a sentence.
Common Mistakes with Subordinating Conjunctions
Here are some common mistakes to avoid:
- Incorrect Comma Usage: Omitting the comma when the dependent clause comes first, or adding a comma unnecessarily when the independent clause comes first.
- Sentence Fragments: Using a dependent clause as a complete sentence.
- Misusing Conjunctions: Selecting the wrong conjunction, leading to a confusing or incorrect meaning.
- Faulty Parallelism: Incorrectly pairing clauses that are not parallel in structure.
Example of Incorrect Comma Usage:
Incorrect: Because it was raining I took my umbrella.
Correct: Because it was raining, I took my umbrella.
Example of a Sentence Fragment:
Incorrect: Because it was raining.
Correct: Because it was raining, I stayed inside.
Example of Misusing Conjunctions:
Incorrect: Although it was sunny, because I took my umbrella.
Correct: Although it was sunny, I took my umbrella.
Practice Exercises
Test your knowledge with these practice exercises. Identify the subordinating conjunction in each sentence and explain its function.
Exercise 1: Identify the Subordinating Conjunction
Identify the subordinating conjunction in each sentence and indicate its type (time, cause/effect, condition, contrast, place).
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| 1. After the game, we went out for pizza. | Subordinating conjunction: After. Type: Time. |
| 2. Because he studied hard, he got a good grade. | Subordinating conjunction: Because. Type: Cause/Effect. |
| 3. If you want to succeed, you must work hard. | Subordinating conjunction: If. Type: Condition. |
| 4. Although she was tired, she finished her work. | Subordinating conjunction: Although. Type: Contrast. |
| 5. I’ll meet you where you told me to wait. | Subordinating conjunction: Where. Type: Place. |
| 6. Since you are here, please help me with this. | Subordinating conjunction: Since. Type: Cause/Effect |
| 7. Unless you study, you won’t pass the exam. | Subordinating conjunction: Unless. Type: Condition |
| 8. As soon as he arrived, we started the meeting. | Subordinating conjunction: As soon as. Type: Time |
| 9. Even though it was expensive, I bought it. | Subordinating conjunction: Even though. Type: Contrast |
| 10. Where there’s a will, there’s a way. | Subordinating conjunction: Where. Type: Place |
Exercise 2: Complete the Sentence
Complete each sentence using an appropriate subordinating conjunction from the list: (if, because, although, when, where)
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| 1. ______ it rains, we will stay inside. | If it rains, we will stay inside. |
| 2. I went to the store ______ I needed milk. | I went to the store because I needed milk. |
| 3. ______ I was tired, I finished my work. | Although I was tired, I finished my work. |
| 4. I will call you ______ I arrive. | I will call you when I arrive. |
| 5. This is the place ______ we met. | This is the place where we met. |
| 6. ______ you finish your homework, you can play. | When you finish your homework, you can play. |
| 7. I couldn’t sleep ______ the noise outside. | I couldn’t sleep because of the noise outside. |
| 8. ______ she practiced every day, she became a great musician. | Because she practiced every day, she became a great musician. |
| 9. I will go ______ you go. | I will go where you go. |
| 10. ______ it is difficult, it is not impossible. | Although it is difficult, it is not impossible. |
Exercise 3: Correct the Errors
Identify and correct the errors in the following sentences.
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| 1. Because it was raining. I took my umbrella. | Corrected: Because it was raining, I took my umbrella. |
| 2. Although I was tired, but I kept working. | Corrected: Although I was tired, I kept working. (Remove “but”) |
| 3. If you will study, you will pass. | Corrected: If you study, you will pass. |
| 4. I went to the store because. | Corrected: I went to the store because I needed groceries. |
| 5. When I arrive I will call you. | Corrected: When I arrive, I will call you. |
| 6. Unless you don’t hurry you will be late. | Corrected: Unless you hurry, you will be late. |
| 7. Although it was sunny, but it was cold. | Corrected: Although it was sunny, it was cold. |
| 8. After I finished my work I went home. | Corrected: After I finished my work, I went home. |
| 9. Where I live is a small town. | Correct: Where I live, is a small town. |
| 10. Because of the rain, but the game was canceled. | Corrected: Because of the rain, the game was canceled. |
Advanced Topics
For advanced learners, consider these more complex aspects:
- Elliptical Clauses: Clauses where some words are omitted but the meaning is still clear. Example: While (I was) walking, I saw a bird.
- Reduced Clauses: Dependent clauses that have been shortened, often using participles. Example: Having finished my work, I went home. (instead of After I had finished my work…)
- Correlative Conjunctions: Pairs of conjunctions that work together to connect related ideas. Example: Both…and, either…or, neither…nor, not only…but also. While not strictly subordinating conjunctions, they often appear in complex sentences.
Understanding these advanced topics can further enhance your ability to write and speak with greater precision and sophistication.
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 (e.g., and, but, or) connect words, phrases, or independent clauses of equal grammatical rank. Subordinating conjunctions, on the other hand, connect a dependent clause to an independent clause, making one clause subordinate to the other. Coordinating conjunctions create compound sentences, while subordinating conjunctions create complex sentences.
- 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. This structure is useful for emphasizing the dependent clause or creating a specific flow of information.
- 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, when the independent clause comes first, a comma is usually not necessary. The comma helps to separate the two clauses and improve readability.
- What happens if I use the wrong subordinating conjunction?
Using the wrong subordinating conjunction can change the meaning of your sentence or make it nonsensical. It’s crucial to choose a conjunction that accurately reflects the relationship between the dependent and independent clauses. For example, using “because” when you mean “although” will convey the opposite of your intended meaning.
- Are there any subordinating conjunctions that can also be prepositions?
Yes, some words can function as both subordinating conjunctions and prepositions, depending on how they are used in a sentence. For example, “after,” “before,” and “since” can be either. If the word is followed by a clause (subject + verb), it’s a subordinating conjunction. If it’s followed by a noun or pronoun, it’s a preposition.
- How can I improve my understanding of subordinating conjunctions?
The best way to improve your understanding of subordinating conjunctions is to practice using them in your writing and speaking. Pay attention to how they are used in the texts you read and listen to, and try to incorporate them into your own communication. Review grammar rules and examples regularly, and seek feedback on your writing from teachers or peers.
- Can multiple subordinating conjunctions be used in one sentence?
Yes, it is possible to use multiple subordinating conjunctions in one sentence, especially in complex sentences with multiple dependent clauses. However, it’s important to ensure that the sentence remains clear and easy to understand. Overusing subordinating conjunctions can make a sentence convoluted and difficult to follow.
- What is the difference between ‘as,’ ‘since,’ and ‘because’ when expressing cause and effect?
While all three can express cause and effect, there are subtle differences. “Because” is the most direct and strongest. “Since” often implies that the cause is already known or is less important than the main point. “As” is similar to “since” but is often used at the beginning of a sentence and can also indicate time. The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.
Conclusion
Subordinating conjunctions are vital tools for constructing complex and meaningful sentences in English. By mastering their definitions, types, usage rules, and common pitfalls, you can significantly enhance your writing and speaking skills. Understanding how these conjunctions connect dependent and independent clauses allows you to express intricate relationships between ideas with clarity and precision.
Remember to practice regularly, pay attention to comma usage, and choose the right conjunction to convey your intended meaning. With consistent effort, you will become proficient in using subordinating conjunctions to create sophisticated and effective communication.
