What are Subordinating Conjunctions?
- 3.1There are Three Different Types of Conjunctions:
- 3.2The Dependent Clause has Two Specific Qualities
Subordinating conjunctions are words or phrases used to introduce a dependent clause and show the relationship between that clause and the main clause. They help to provide additional information, and context, or clarify the nature of the relationship between the two clauses.
By using subordinating conjunctions, writers can show the connection between different ideas and indicate cause and effect, contrast, condition, or time. For example, in the sentence "I will go to the park if it stops raining," the subordinating conjunction "if" introduces the condition under which the action in the main clause ("I will go to the park") will occur.
Introduction to Subordinating Conjunctions
Conjunctions in grammar are a type of part of speech that connects the words or phrases or clauses. In the absence of conjunctions, we are forced to express complex sentences by breaking them into short simple sentences. These conjunctions are to be used wisely to convey the same meaning. The conjunctions may either
Example: She bought flowers and chocolates from the market.
There are Three Different Types of Conjunctions:
Correlative conjunctions
Subordinating conjunctions
The Dependent Clause has Two Specific Qualities
It cannot act as its sentence.
It depends on the independent clause to provide a complete meaning.
Types of Subordinating Conjunctions
These are categorized accordingly. When there is a main clause there are time related conjunctions that form the points. Some of the examples are once,before, yet, anytime.
This also emphasizes what occurs with them. Some Of them help the connections between words which provide the correlation. There is also some condition which contains the main clause to work.
The location defines the action or the activity and also includes where to go.
The subordinating conjunctions are categorized by meaning:
Time: When the main clause is performed or will be performed, the time-related conjunctions establish a period.
Some of them include: as soon as, once, before, still, whenever.
Concession: By providing the additional information the concession conjunctions help to redefine the meaning of the main clause. It highlights the action that has happened in the hindrance or obstacle.
Some of them include: although, even though, as though.
Comparison: It helps to establish the connection between the words by providing a correlation. It includes though, whereas, just as, in contrast to.
Cause: It defines the reason that the main clause was performed. Commonly used once is because, since, so that.
Condition: It provides the rules under which the main clause works. It includes if, in case, even if, unless.
Place: It defines the place where the action or the activities occur. It includes wherever, whereas.
Method of Subordinating Conjunctions which is Preceded by Comma Placement
It is observed that there is no comma before the subordinate conjunction. This is actually the opposite of what is usually done when the conjunctions or words are adjusted.Further more to know if the subordinate clause begins the sentence then the whole sentence will be followed by a comma.
Difference Between the Coordinating Junction and Subordinate Junction
Coordinating junctions usually refer to linking words which connect nouns and verbs or even adjectives , independent clauses or even the sentences. This also connects two units which have the similarity in the grammatical type. Furthermore it is noticed that it gives equal importance to the main clauses. There are mainly even coordinating conjunctions. This also represents change between the ideas in terms of time, place.
Does Subordinate Need a Subject?
This is an independent clause which has a subject and the verb but even though it is independent it cannot be represented as the sentence. The beginning of the subordinate clause has words and short phrases.
More about Subordinating Conjunctions
There are many terms that include conjunctions which are sometimes difficult to remember. Sometimes the subordinate conjunctions are mistaken for the coordinating conjunctions. This can be further defined as the word or even a phrase that connects the subordinate clauses. These have to be always combined with independent clauses as they cannot be alone.
There is always a need to add more information to the sentence.This can be welldone by using the subordinate clauses. The advantage of the subordinate clause is that it allows you to add additional information to the sentence using the subordinate conjunctions which will transform the sentence into complex.
The subordinate clause depends on another clause. This indicates the relationship between the two clauses.
Conclusion
According to the meaning of the subordinating conjunction, the construction of complex sentences is difficult without subordinating conjunctions. Instead we have to split them into simple sentences. We should be very careful while placing the comma when the subordinating conjunctions are used. The conjunctions that generally appear in the middle of the sentence are not preceded by the comma. If the subordinate clause appears at the starting of the sentence then the whole sentence is followed by a comma.
Some Common Subordinating Conjunctions List and Subordinating Conjunctions Examples Sentences
Although – Used to show contrast.
Example: Although it was cold, we went for a walk.
Because – Indicates a reason or cause.
Example: We stayed indoors because it was raining.
If – Used to introduce a condition.
Example: I’ll go to the party if I finish my work.
Since – Indicates time or cause.
Example: Since it was his birthday, we bought him a gift.
When – Refers to time.
Example: We will leave when the movie ends.
While – Indicates simultaneous actions or contrast.
Example: She read a book while he cooked dinner.
Unless – Introduces a condition that must be met.
Example: I won’t be able to attend the meeting unless it is rescheduled.
Before – Refers to time, indicating something happening earlier.
Example: Finish your homework before you go outside.
After – Refers to time, indicating something happening later.
Example: We can go to the park after lunch.
Though – Indicates contrast, similar to "although."
Example: Though she was tired, she completed her project.
Until – Refers to time, indicating up to a certain point.
Example: I will wait here until you return.
As – Can indicate time, cause, or comparison.
Example: She sang as she worked on the painting.
Provided that – Indicates a condition.
Example: You can borrow my car provided that you return it by 6 PM.
In case – Indicates a condition or precaution.
Example: Take an umbrella in case it rains.
Whether – Introduces alternatives or choices.
Example: I need to decide whether to go to the concert or stay home.
Points to Remember When Using Subordinating Conjunctions
Identify the Clauses: Ensure you have a clear distinction between the independent clause (which can stand alone as a complete sentence) and the dependent clause (which cannot stand alone and relies on the independent clause).
Correct Placement: Place the subordinating conjunction at the beginning of the dependent clause or within the sentence, depending on the sentence structure. For example, "Although it was raining, we went for a walk" versus "We went for a walk, although it was raining."
Use Appropriate Conjunctions: Choose the subordinating conjunction that best expresses the relationship between the clauses. For example, use "because" for cause and effect, "although" for contrast, and "if" for conditions.
Punctuation Rules: When the dependent clause comes before the independent clause, use a comma to separate them. For example, "If it rains, we will stay indoors." When the dependent clause follows the independent clause, a comma is generally not needed. For example, "We will stay indoors if it rains."
Maintain Consistent Tense: Ensure that the tense in the dependent clause is consistent with the tense in the independent clause to maintain clarity and coherence.
Avoid Confusing Conjunctions: Be cautious with conjunctions that have multiple meanings or functions. For instance, "since" can indicate both time and cause, so ensure the context is clear.
Check for Completeness: Ensure that the dependent clause provides enough information to complete the thought started by the independent clause. Incomplete or vague dependent clauses can lead to confusion.
Clarify Relationships: Use subordinating conjunctions to clearly show the relationship between ideas, whether it's cause and effect, contrast, time, or condition.
Variety in Usage: Vary the subordinating conjunctions you use to avoid repetition and to keep your writing more engaging and nuanced.
Avoid Sentence Fragments: Ensure that the dependent clause is not left hanging without a main clause, as this can create sentence fragments. For example, "Because it was late" should be paired with a main clause like "We decided to go home."
Test Your Knowledge on the Topic of Subordinating Conjunctions
1. Complete the Sentence: Fill in the blank with an appropriate subordinating conjunction.
I will go to the beach __________ it is sunny.
She was late __________ she missed the bus.
__________ you finish your homework, you can play outside.
2. Combine the Sentences: Use a subordinating conjunction to combine the following sentences.
The cake was delicious. I made it myself.
I will join you at the park. I finish my work.
He went to the store. He needed to buy groceries.
3. Identify the Conjunction: Identify the subordinating conjunction in each sentence.
We can have ice cream if we finish our dinner.
Although it was cold, they went for a swim.
She will call you when she arrives.
4. Correct the Sentence: Rewrite the following sentences to use the subordinating conjunction correctly, including proper punctuation.
If you study hard you will pass the exam.
We stayed indoors because it rained.
They are leaving now, although they are not ready.
5. Choose the Right Conjunction: Select the appropriate subordinating conjunction to complete each sentence.
She will be happy __________ you attend her birthday party. (because/although)
__________ he was tired, he continued working. (because/although)
I will call you __________ I arrive home. (when / if)
6. Write Your Sentences: Create sentences using the given subordinating conjunctions.
Unless
Before
Since
While
7. Match the Clauses: Match each independent clause with the correct dependent clause using a subordinating conjunction.
Independent Clauses:
We should leave now.
She will be happy.
I didn’t go to the concert.
Dependent Clauses:
because I was feeling ill.
if we want to avoid traffic.
when she receives the good news.
8. Correct the Errors: Find and correct the errors in the use of subordinating conjunctions in the following sentences.
She will be upset if I forget her birthday.
We can go hiking unless it stops raining.
I will go to the gym because I have finished my work.
9. Fill in the Conjunction: Fill in the correct subordinating conjunction to complete the sentence.
They decided to take a break __________ they had been working for hours.
I will be at the party __________ my friends are coming.
__________ you are free tomorrow, let’s meet for lunch.
10. Explain the Use: Explain the function of the subordinating conjunction in the following sentences.
Because she was late, she missed the beginning of the movie.
Although the weather was bad, they went on their trip.
If you study regularly, you will improve your grades.
Find out if you got them right from the answers below.
1. Complete the Sentence:
I will go to the beach if it is sunny.
She was late because she missed the bus.
When you finish your homework, you can play outside.
2. Combine the Sentences:
The cake was delicious because I made it myself.
I will join you at the park when I finish my work.
He went to the store because he needed to buy groceries.
3. Identify the Conjunction:
We can have ice cream if we finish our dinner.
Although it was cold, they went for a swim.
She will call you when she arrives.
4. Correct the Sentence:
If you study hard, you will pass the exam.
We stayed indoors because it rained.
They are leaving now, although they are not ready.
5. Choose the Right Conjunction:
She will be happy if you attend her birthday party. (because/although)
Although he was tired, he continued working. (because/although)
I will call you when I arrive home. (when / if)
6. Write Your Sentences:
Unless: I will not go to the party unless you come with me.
Before: Please finish your homework before you go out.
Since: Since it’s raining, we should stay inside.
While: She reads a book while waiting for the train.
7. Match the Clauses:
We should leave now if we want to avoid traffic.
She will be happy when she receives the good news.
I didn’t go to the concert because I was feeling ill.
8. Correct the Errors:
She will be upset if I forget her birthday. (Correct: "if")
We can go hiking if it stops raining. (Correct: "if")
I will go to the gym because I have finished my work. (Correct: "because")
9. Fill in the Conjunction:
They decided to take a break because they had been working for hours.
I will be at the party if my friends are coming.
If you are free tomorrow, let’s meet for lunch.
10. Explain the Use:
Because she was late, she missed the beginning of the movie. (Because shows the reason for missing the movie.)
Although the weather was bad, they went on their trip. (Although shows a contrast between the weather and their decision to go on the trip.)
If you study regularly, you will improve your grades. (If sets a condition for improving grades.)
Takeaways from this Page
Subordinating conjunctions establish relationships between a dependent clause and an independent clause, indicating reasons, conditions, time, contrast, or purpose.
They help in creating complex sentences by combining different ideas, thus adding depth and clarity to writing. For instance, "because" shows cause and effect, while "although" introduces contrast.
Understanding how to use subordinating conjunctions improves sentence variety and coherence. It allows for more nuanced expression of thoughts and ideas.
Subordinating conjunctions are important in connecting dependent clauses to independent clauses, providing a clear relationship between different parts of a sentence.
FAQs on Subordinating Conjunctions: Linking Dependent and Independent Clauses
1. What is a subordinating conjunction?
A subordinating conjunction is a word that connects a dependent clause to an independent clause, showing the relationship between them. It helps to create complex sentences by linking clauses of different types. For example, in the sentence "Whenever the doorbell rings, the dog barks loudly," "whenever" is the subordinating conjunction that connects the dependent clause "Whenever the doorbell rings" to the independent clause "the dog barks loudly."
2. What are the different types of subordinate clauses?
The different types of subordinate clauses are:
Adverb Clauses: Provide information about how, when, where, or why something happens. Examples include "after," "because," "since," "before," "until," "when," and "where."
Adjective Clauses: Modify nouns or pronouns, providing more detail about them. Examples include "that," "whom," "who," and "which."
Noun Clauses: Act as a noun within the sentence, serving as the subject, object, or complement. Examples include "what," "whoever," and "whichever."
3. What is the difference between coordinating and subordinating conjunctions?
Coordinating Conjunctions connect words, phrases, or independent clauses of equal importance. Examples include "and," "but," "or," "nor," "for," "so," and "yet." They join elements of the same type and are used to create compound sentences.
Subordinating Conjunctions connect a dependent clause to an independent clause, showing the relationship between them. Examples include "because," "although," "if," "when," and "unless." They are used to create complex sentences and indicate reasons, conditions, time, contrast, or purpose.
4. How do subordinating conjunctions affect sentence structure?
Subordinating conjunctions create complex sentences by linking dependent clauses to independent clauses. This allows for the expression of more detailed and nuanced ideas, showing relationships such as cause and effect, contrast, or conditions.
5. Can you give examples of sentences with adverb clauses?
"I will call you when I arrive."
"She stayed home because it was raining."
"We can leave after the movie ends."
6. What are some examples of adjective clauses?
"The book that you gave me is fascinating."
"The person who called you is waiting outside."
"She has a house which is painted blue."
7. How do noun clauses function in a sentence?
Noun clauses act as a noun within the sentence, serving as the subject, object, or complement. For example, "What she said" in "What she said was surprising" functions as the subject of the sentence.
8. What are common subordinating conjunctions used to show contrast?
Common subordinating conjunctions used to show contrast include "although," "though," "even though," and "whereas." For example, "Although it was raining, we went for a walk."
9. How can you identify a subordinating conjunction in a sentence?
A subordinating conjunction can be identified by its role in introducing a dependent clause and linking it to an independent clause. It often appears at the beginning of the dependent clause. For instance, in "She smiled because she was happy," "because" is the subordinating conjunction linking the dependent clause "because she was happy" to the independent clause "She smiled."
10. Why is it important to use subordinating conjunctions correctly?
Using subordinating conjunctions correctly is important for creating clear and grammatically correct complex sentences. They help in expressing relationships between ideas, providing context, and adding depth to writing. Proper use ensures that sentences are well-structured and convey the intended meaning effectively.
11. How many Subordinating Conjunctions are there?
There isn't a fixed number of subordinating conjunctions because the list can vary depending on the source and how specific the classifications are.
