What are Subordinating conjunctions? Subordinating conjunction in English

Subordinating conjunctions are an important grammar point that is widely used. To understand the basic definition, subordinating conjunctions function to connect phrases, clauses and paragraphs. In the article below, let’s learn more about subordinating conjunctions together with PREP!

I. Definition of subordinating conjunction

Subordinating conjunctions are words/phrases that connect a dependent clause to an independent clause. Subordinating conjunctions help clauses within a sentence to have a closer link with each other compared to coordinating conjunctions. Subordinating conjunctions are commonly used in cases such as cause-effect relationships, conditional relationships, temporal relationships, and logically opposing relationships.

For example:

• Jessica plays piano after she finishes her homework. 
• Even though he treats her badly, July still loves him. 

II. Some common English subordinating conjunctions

Below is an English subordinating conjunctions list. Read the following content to correctly use them:

1. After, Before 

After and before are used to express temporal relationships between two clauses.

For example:

• Linda arrived after the party had started. 
• Before my friends arrive, I need to clean the house. 

2. Although, though, even though 

Although, though, even though are subordinating conjunctions used to express two logically opposing actions.

For example:

• Even though Linda grew up in a difficult family, she was always optimistic. 
• Although he is very young, Galvin already owns a large fortune. 

Note: Some conjunctions similar in meaning to although, though, even though; however, they are used differently are: despite, in spite of. The structure:

Despite/in spite of + N/V-ing, S V O

Despite the fact that/in spite of the fact that + S V O, S V O

For example:

• In spite of having an excellent university degree, she is still unemployed.
• Despite the fact that she is unemployed, Luna turns down a job offer from her ex-boyfriend. 

3. As 

As is a subordinating conjunction showing simultaneous actions or expressing a cause.

For example:

• Lazy had just left the party as I arrived. 
• As Kovan was subjective, he failed the exam. 

4. As soon as

As soon as is used to express temporal relationships.

For example:

• I took a shower as soon as I got home. 
• Lucy did his homework as soon as the teacher assigned it. 

5. Because 

Because is used to express causes and reasons.

For example:

• Because I was lazy, I didn't do my homework on time. 
• Because it rained, our picnic plans were postponed. 

6. Even if

Even if is used to express hypothetical conditions.

For example:

• Oscar still drives even if the road is snowy. 
• Even if I tried to explain the reason for my leave, my boss still did not accept it. 

7. If, unless 

If and unless are subordinating conjunctions expressing conditions.

For example:

• If I try my best, I will get a raise next month. 
• Unless you are seriously ill, you will still be required to attend this meeting. 

8. Now that

Now that is a subordinating conjunction showing causal relationships over time.

For example:

• Now that Doris has passed the exam, she can travel with her boyfriend. 
• Now that Devis now has a driver's license, he is confident in driving and traveling alone. 

9. So that, in order that

So that, in order that are subordinating conjunctions used to express purpose.

For example:

• My father sold my laptop so that I won't be able to play games. 
• Sam worked so hard in order that she would be promoted to manager. 

10. Until

Until is a subordinating conjunction used to express temporal relationships and is often used in negative sentences.

For example:

• I didn't wake up until the alarm went off. 
• Clara didn't apologize until her mother asked her to.

11. When

When is a subordinating conjunction used to express temporal relationships.

For example:

• When Ella walked to the party, Kelvin had already left. 
• When Heidi left the classroom, it began to snow heavily. 

12. While 

While is a subordinating conjunction used to express temporal relationships or describe the opposing meanings of two clauses.

For example:

• Gerda is sleeping while her colleagues are working hard.
• While I was just entering the classroom, the teacher had already arrived. 

13. In case, in the event that

In case and in the event that are two subordinating conjunctions used to express hypothetical situations related to an action that may occur in the future.

• Bring fever-reducing medication on your camping trip in case you have a fever. 
• In the event that the power goes out, we have backup generators to meet the demands of essential services. 

III. Distinguish between subordinating conjunctions and relative pronouns

Similarities: Both subordinating conjunctions and relative pronouns function to connect an independent clause with a dependent clause within a sentence.

Differences:

IV. Subordinating conjunctions exercises with answers

To become proficient with subordinating conjunction usage, let's try some basic exercises!

1. Exercise 1: Choose the suitable words to complete the following sentences: unless, because, if, when

1. Linda often visits her mother ___________ she comes back from Singapore. 
2. Lona can’t hear me ___________ I speak louder.
3. My cat ran away ___________ the door was left open.
4. We’ll have the picnic ___________ it doesn’t rain tomorrow.
5. My boyfriend will buy a new car ___________ he saves enough money.

2. Exercise 2: Rewrite the following sentences into complex sentences using a subordinating conjunction to introduce the dependent clause.

1. Kovan wants to watch films. He finished his homework. (after) 
2. Clara will come to her birthday party. She has time. (if) 
3. My family can’t go camping outside. It’s raining. (because) 
4. Heidi is studying hard. She wants to pass the exam. (so that) 
5. Kelvin went to bed. He was very exhausted. (because) 

Answer:

The article covers all the knowledge about subordinating conjunctions that you should grasp to apply to tests as well as more effective communication. PREP wishes you success on your journey to conquer English knowledge!