What are Subordinating Conjunctions in English?
A subordinating conjunction is a linking word or phrase that joins a dependent clause to an independent clause.
- Independent Clause: A complete sentence that can stand entirely on its own.
> We cancelled the picnic. - Dependent Clause: An incomplete sentence that relies on another clause.
> because it was raining
The subordinating conjunction (because) joins these two, creating a single, complex English sentence:
We cancelled the picnic because it was raining.
💡 Pro Tip: Dependent clauses act as adverbs, telling you when, why, how, or under what condition the main action of the sentence took place.
How to Tell the Difference Between Coordinating and Subordinating Conjunctions
- Coordinating Conjunctions (FANBOYS): Link two equal parts (like two independent clauses). Example: I wanted to go, but it rained.
- Subordinating Conjunctions: Create an unequal relationship where one clause relies entirely on the other to make sense. Example: Although I wanted to go, it rained.
Subordinating Conjunctions Structure and Formula
The punctuation for subordinating conjunctions is strict and depends entirely on the order of the clauses within the sentence.
Structure (Dependent Clause First = Comma):
[Subordinating Conjunction] + S1 + V1 + O1, S2 + V2 + O2.
* Because it was raining, we cancelled the picnic.
Structure (Independent Clause First = No Comma):
S1 + V1 + O1 [Subordinating Conjunction] S2 + V2 + O2.
* We cancelled the picnic because it was raining.
List of Common Subordinating Conjunctions
Here are the most common subordinating conjunctions in English, organized by their grammatical function:
| Function | Signal Word Conjunctions | Real-life Example |
|---|---|---|
| Time | when, while, since, before, after, until | After the movie, we got coffee. |
| Reason | because, since, as | I am late because my car broke down. |
| Condition | if, unless, provided that, assuming that | You won't pass unless you study. |
| Contrast | although, even though, whereas, while | Although he is rich, he is sad. |
| Purpose | so that, in order that | She studies so that she can pass. |
How to Identify Nuances and Confusions
- Since vs. Because: Since can refer to time (Since 5 PM) or reason (Since you're here...). In formal writing, use because for reason to avoid ambiguity.
- While vs. Whereas: While can mean simultaneous time or contrast. Whereas only shows contrast and is highly formal.
- As: As is a weak conjunction because it means time, reason, or comparison. Prefer because or while for absolute clarity.
Reduced Adverb Clauses Formula
At an advanced level, you can make writing concise by "reducing" adverb clauses. If the subject of the main clause and the subordinate clause is the exact same, you can remove the subject from the subordinate clause and change the verb to a participle.
V-ing Structure Reduction:
* Full: Before I left the house, I checked the windows.
* Reduced: Before leaving the house, I checked the windows.
V-ed/V3 (Passive) Structure Reduction:
* Full: Although it was written long ago, the book is relevant.
* Reduced: Although written long ago, the book is relevant.
Summary & Cheatsheet for Subordinate Reductions
Be careful of dangling modifiers! You can only reduce the clause if the subject is identical for both verbs.
* Incorrect Dangling Modifier: While running for the bus, my bag fell. (This grammar implies the bag was running).
* Correct Fix: While running for the bus, I dropped my bag.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Subordinating Conjunctions?
Subordinating conjunctions are words or phrases (like because, although, if, when) that connect a dependent clause to an independent clause, establishing a relationship of time, reason, condition, or contrast between them.
When to Use a Comma with Subordinating Conjunctions?
You only use a comma if the dependent clause (the part starting with the subordinating conjunction) comes at the beginning of the sentence. If the independent main clause comes first, do not use a comma before the conjunction.
What is the acronym for Subordinating Conjunctions?
There are many subordinating conjunctions, but common acronyms taught in schools include ON A WHITE BUS (Only if, Now that, After, While, However, In case, Though, Even if, Because, Unless, Since) or AAAWWUBBIS (After, Although, As, When, While, Until, Because, Before, If, Since).