Subordinating conjunctions are the tools that turn choppy, simple sentences into sophisticated, flowing prose. While coordinating conjunctions (like, and, or but) join equal parts, subordinating conjunctions create a hierarchy, showing exactly how two ideas relate through time, cause, or condition.
What subordinating conjunctions do
These words do two things at once:
- Link clauses: They bridge the gap between a dependent clause and a main (independent) clause.
- Establish relationships: They provide context by indicating why, when, where, or under what conditions an action occurs.
Comparison of common subordinating conjunction types
| Function | Common conjunctions | Example sentence |
| Time | After, before, since, until, when, while | I will call you when I get home. |
| Cause/Reason | Because, since, as | She stayed home because she was sick. |
| Condition | If, unless, even if, provided that | You can go out if you finish your homework. |
| Contrast | Although, even though, whereas, while | He went swimming although it was raining. |
| Place | Where, wherever | I will meet you where the river bends. |
| Manner | As, as if, as though | He behaves as if he owns the place. |
Rules for using subordinating conjunctions
The placement of a subordinating conjunction determines the punctuation of your sentence.
1. Starting a sentence (Dependent clause first)
If the dependent clause comes first, you must use a comma to separate it from the independent clause.
- Structure: Subordinating conjunction + dependent clause , independent clause.
- Example: Because it was raining, we stayed inside.
2. Middle of a sentence (Independent clause first)
If the independent clause comes first, a comma is usually unnecessary.
- Structure: Independent clause + subordinating conjunction + dependent clause.
- Example: We stayed inside because it was raining.
A comprehensive list of subordinating conjunctions
To improve your writing, it is helpful to understand the nuances of each word. Here is a list of the most frequently used subordinating conjunctions in English:
- Although / Though: Introduces a contrast or concession.
- Example: Although it was cold, he wore shorts.
- As: Used to show time (simultaneous actions) or reason.
- Example: As the sun set, the sky turned orange.
- Because: Clearly indicates the cause or reason for something.
- Example: I brought an umbrella because it might rain.
- Before: Shows that one event happens prior to another.
- Example: Finish your work before you leave.
- Even though: A stronger version of “although” used for emphasis.
- Example: Even though he studied, he failed the exam.
- If: Introduces a condition or a hypothetical scenario.
- Example: If I had more time, I would travel.
- Once: Indicates that one action starts immediately after another is completed.
- Example: Once you learn the rules, it becomes easier.
- Since: Refers to a point in time or provides a reason.
- Example: I have been here since morning.
- Unless: Signals an exception to a condition.
- Example: You will get wet unless you use an umbrella.
- Until: Defines a specific point in time when an action stops.
- Example: We waited until the concert ended.
- Whenever: Refers to any time a specific condition is met.
- Example: Whenever it rains, the basement leaks.
- Whereas: Used to highlight a direct contrast between two ideas.
- Example: He prefers tea, whereas I prefer coffee.
- While: Can show time (during) or a contrast (similar to whereas).
- Example: While I was reading, she was cooking.
Grammar tips for English learners
Mastering these connectors is a major step toward fluency. Here are four ways to improve:
- Identify the “anchor”: Always look for the independent clause. If you can’t find a part of the sentence that makes sense on its own, you might have a sentence fragment.
- Vary your sentence structure: Don’t always put the conjunction in the middle. Try starting sentences with “although” or “if” to make your writing more engaging.
- Watch the comma: Remember that the “comma rule” depends entirely on which clause comes first.
- Context matters: “Since” can mean “because” or “from that time.” Read the whole sentence to ensure the meaning is clear.
Frequently asked questions about subordinating conjunctions
Mastering your complex sentences
Subordinating conjunctions are the secret to moving beyond basic English and writing with sophistication. By understanding how to link a dependent clause to an independent one, you gain the power to express cause, effect, time, and contrast with precision. Whether you are using because to explain a reason or although to show a shift in thought, these connectors are the building blocks of clear, professional communication.
The one rule you can’t ignore: if the subordinating conjunction starts your sentence, use a comma. If it falls in the middle, the comma usually stays out.
Join the conversation
Which subordinating conjunction do you find the most difficult to use? Some writers struggle with the “comma rule” for whereas, while others aren’t sure when to swap because, for, or since.
Drop a comment below with your toughest grammar question or share a sentence you’ve written using one of the conjunctions from our list. If you found this guide helpful, share it with a fellow learner or writer to help them master the art of the complex sentence!
Expand your grammar knowledge
If you found this guide helpful, explore our other resources on English sentence structure:
- Types of conjunctions in English: A complete overview
- How to use conjunctive adverbs
- The 7 coordinating conjunctions (FANBOYS)
- Correlative conjunctions: Pairs that work together
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