Subordinating conjunctions are words that join a dependent clause (a clause that cannot stand alone as a sentence) to an independent clause (a clause that can stand alone as a sentence). They essentially turn the clause they introduce into a dependent clause, making it rely on the independent clause for its full meaning.
Here's a breakdown of subordinating conjunctions, categorized by the relationship they show between the clauses:
Time:
* after: I went to bed after I brushed my teeth.
* as: As I was walking home, it started to rain.
* as long as: You can borrow my book as long as you return it.
* as soon as: Call me as soon as you arrive.
* before: Before you leave, make sure you turn off the lights.
* by the time: By the time the movie started, we had finished our popcorn.
* during: I studied during the summer.
* ever since: I've loved pizza ever since I tried it.
* once: Once you learn to ride a bike, you'll never forget.
* since: I haven't seen him since he moved away.
* till/until: I waited until the bus arrived.
* when: When I get home, I'll call you.
* whenever: Come visit whenever you're in town.
* while: While I was cooking dinner, the phone rang.
Cause and Effect:
* because: I'm tired because I didn't sleep well.
* since: Since you're going to the store, can you pick up some milk? (Note: "since" can also refer to time)
* as: As it was raining, the game was cancelled.
Contrast/Concession:
* although: Although it was raining, we went for a walk.
* even though: I went to work even though I was sick.
* though: She's very nice, though a bit shy.
* whereas: Whereas my brother loves sports, I prefer reading.
* while: While he's very talented, he can be quite arrogant. (Note: "while" can also refer to time)
Condition:
* if: If I win the lottery, I'll travel the world.
* unless: You won't pass the test unless you study.
* provided that: You can go to the party provided that you're home by midnight.
* providing that: Providing that the weather is good, we'll go hiking.
* on condition that: I'll tell you the secret on condition that you don't tell anyone else.
* whether: I don't know whether I'll go to the party.
Place:
* where: I know where you left your keys.
* wherever: You can sit wherever you like.
Manner:
* as: Do as I say.
* as if/as though: He acted as if he hadn't heard me.
Purpose:
* so that: I'm saving money so that I can buy a new car.
* in order that: He studied hard in order that he could pass the exam.
Important Notes:
* Comma Use: When the dependent clause comes before the independent clause, you need a comma. Because I was tired, I went to bed early. When the independent clause comes first, no comma is needed. I went to bed early because I was tired.
* Variety: Using a variety of subordinating conjunctions makes your writing more interesting and sophisticated.
* Meaning: Pay close attention to the meaning of each conjunction to ensure you're expressing the relationship between the clauses correctly.
This list isn't exhaustive, but it covers the most common subordinating conjunctions. Understanding how to use them correctly is crucial for constructing complex and grammatically sound sentences in English.
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