ZZ.2 Identify subordinating conjunctions
What are subordinating conjunctions?
Subordinating conjunctions are words that connect a dependent clause to a main clause. They show a relationship such as time, cause, or condition.
- because – She stayed inside because it was raining.
- when – We will start when everyone arrives.
- although – Although it was cold, we still played.
A dependent clause cannot stand alone. It needs the main clause to form a complete sentence.
How do subordinating conjunctions work?
They introduce information that explains why, when, or under what condition something happens in a sentence.
- if – We will go outside if the weather is nice.
- while – He read a book while he waited.
- after – After we eat, we will clean up.
These words help connect ideas and make writing smoother and clearer.
Common subordinating conjunctions
Students often see these subordinating conjunctions when reading and writing sentences.
- because, although, if
- when, whenever, while
- before, after, until
- since, unless
Each conjunction shows a different type of relationship, such as cause, time, contrast, or condition.
Using subordinating conjunctions in sentences
They can come at the beginning of a sentence or in the middle, depending on how the sentence is arranged.
- Before we leave, check your backpack.
- We stayed inside because it was stormy.
- Until the bell rings, remain seated.
When the dependent clause comes first, use a comma before the main clause. When it comes after the main clause, a comma is usually not needed.
Checking your understanding
Ask yourself if the conjunction adds important information about time, cause, contrast, or condition.
- We will start the game when everyone is ready.
- Although he was tired, he finished his work.
- She smiled because she felt proud.
If removing the conjunction breaks the connection between ideas, it is doing an important job in the sentence.