Subordinating Conjunctions
Table of Contents
Exercises
Explanation
Common Subordinating Conjunctions
|
Meaning |
Conjunctions |
Example |
|
Time (when something happens) |
when, while, before, after, until |
I watch TV after I finish homework. |
|
Reason / Cause |
because, since |
She stayed inside because it was raining. |
|
Condition (if something happens) |
if, unless |
Unless you hurry, we will miss the train. |
|
Contrast |
although, though |
Although he is tired, he is still working. |
|
Purpose / Result |
so that |
I speak slowly so that you can understand. |
Examples
-
When the bell rings, the lesson starts.
-
I always stretch before I exercise.
-
If you need help, ask me.
-
She went to bed early because she was tired.
-
Although it was raining, they played football.
-
Stay here until I call you.
-
He turned off the music so that his baby could sleep.
Word Order
Subordinating clause first
Because he was busy, he didn’t join us.
Main clause first
He didn’t join us because he was busy.
Tip: When the subordinating clause comes first, use a comma.
Remember
-
A dependent clause cannot stand alone:
Because I was tired.
I went to bed early because I was tired. -
Subordinating conjunctions help connect ideas logically and smoothly.
