Understanding how ideas connect is the secret to writing sentences that flow like smooth conversation. One of the best tools for achieving that flow is the subordinating conjunction. Whether you’re writing essays, blogs, or simply trying to sound more natural when you speak English, knowing these small but powerful words can completely change your communication style.
Many learners know words like and, but, and or, yet get stuck when sentences need a little more depth—like explaining why, when, or although something happens. That’s where subordinating conjunctions come in. They link ideas together in a logical, natural way.
Think about this:
“I stayed home because it was raining.”
“Although I was tired, I finished the report.”
See how those sentences tell a story? That’s what subordinating conjunctions do—they show relationships between thoughts.
In this guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know about subordinating conjunctions—what they are, how to use them, and how they make your writing shine. We’ll explore their types, examples, punctuation rules, common mistakes, and a few pro tips to sound fluent and confident.
Let’s dive right in and make subordinating conjunctions simple, memorable, and easy to use.
What Are Subordinating Conjunctions?
A subordinating conjunction is a word that connects a dependent clause (a clause that can’t stand alone) to an independent clause (a complete thought).
It shows the relationship between the two clauses—like cause, time, condition, or contrast. These words help create complex sentences, which sound more natural and polished.
Example:
- I’ll go outside if it stops raining.
- Because I was late, I missed the train.
Here, “if” and “because” are subordinating conjunctions linking cause and condition.
Think of a subordinating conjunction as a bridge that connects an incomplete thought to a complete one.
Diagram Example
[Independent Clause] + [Subordinating Conjunction + Dependent Clause]
I’ll call you + if I finish early.
Subordinating conjunctions make your writing more flexible and expressive. They allow you to show why, when, where, how, or under what conditions something happens.
Difference Between Coordinating, Subordinating, and Correlative Conjunctions
English has several types of conjunctions, and each plays a different role. Here’s a quick comparison:
| Type | Function | Examples | Example Sentence |
| Coordinating | Joins equal parts (clauses/words) | and, but, or | I wanted to go out, but it rained. |
| Subordinating | Joins dependent to independent clause | because, although, when | I stayed home because it rained. |
| Correlative | Used in pairs to connect ideas | either…or, neither…nor | Either you call him or I will. |
Key Tip:
- Coordinating = connects equals.
- Subordinating = connects unequals (one idea depends on the other).
- Correlative = connects two balanced ideas using pairs.
Common Subordinating Conjunctions (with Meanings & Examples)
Subordinating conjunctions express different relationships between clauses. Let’s break them down into categories.
Cause and Effect
These show why something happens.
| Conjunction | Meaning | Example |
| because | shows reason | She stayed home because she was sick. |
| since | shows reason/time | Since it’s late, let’s go home. |
| as | means “because” | As I was tired, I went to bed early. |
| so that | shows purpose | He whispered so that no one could hear. |
Time
Used to show when something happens.
| Conjunction | Meaning | Example |
| when | specific moment | I’ll call you when I arrive. |
| before | earlier event | Wash your hands before you eat. |
| after | later event | He went home after he finished work. |
| until | up to a certain point | Wait until I’m ready. |
| while | at the same time | She listened while he spoke. |
| since | from that time | I haven’t seen her since she moved. |
| whenever | at any time | You can visit whenever you want. |
Condition
Used to describe situations or “what ifs.”
| Conjunction | Meaning | Example |
| if | condition | I’ll go if it stops raining. |
| unless | except if | Don’t call unless it’s urgent. |
| provided that | only if | You can go out provided that you finish homework. |
| even if | despite condition | I’ll go even if it rains. |
Contrast / Concession
Used to show opposition between ideas.
| Conjunction | Meaning | Example |
| although | contrast | Although it was cold, we went swimming. |
| though | contrast | Though he’s young, he’s very wise. |
| even though | stronger contrast | Even though I was tired, I helped. |
| whereas | comparison | He loves coffee, whereas I prefer tea. |
| while | contrast or time | While I like rain, I hate thunder. |
Purpose
Used to explain intentions.
| Conjunction | Meaning | Example |
| so that | purpose | He ran fast so that he could win. |
| in order that | formal purpose | She spoke clearly in order that everyone could hear. |
| lest | to prevent something | He ran away lest he be caught. |
Place
Used to show where an action occurs.
| Conjunction | Meaning | Example |
| where | location | Sit where you like. |
| wherever | any location | I’ll follow you wherever you go. |
Manner or Comparison
Shows how or in what way something happens.
| Conjunction | Meaning | Example |
| as | in the way that | Do it as I showed you. |
| as if | suggests comparison | He acts as if he owns the place. |
| as though | formal version | She looked as though she had seen a ghost. |
Sentence Structure with Subordinating Conjunctions
Subordinating conjunctions create complex sentences. A complex sentence has:
- One independent clause
- One dependent clause
Word Order Matters
When the dependent clause comes first, use a comma.
When it comes after, no comma is needed.
Examples:
- Comma needed: Although it rained, we went outside.
- No comma needed: We went outside although it rained.
Practice Tip
Try combining two simple sentences into one using subordinating conjunctions:
“I was late.” + “The traffic was bad.” → I was late because the traffic was bad.
Punctuation Rules with Subordinating Conjunctions
Here’s a quick punctuation guide to avoid confusion:
| Incorrect | Correct |
| Because I was tired, so I went home. | Because I was tired, I went home. |
| Although it rained but we went out. | Although it rained, we went out. |
Golden Rule: Never use both a subordinating conjunction and a coordinating conjunction together in the same sentence.
Advanced Uses and Stylistic Tips
- Vary your sentence rhythm: Start sentences with subordinating conjunctions to add flow and emphasis.
Example: “Although it was late, we kept talking.” - Avoid redundancy: Don’t use although…but or because…so.
- Show hierarchy of ideas: Subordinating conjunctions let you express cause, contrast, and consequence within one sentence.
- Mix sort and long sentences: Combine “burstiness” and natural rhythm for engaging writing.
Quote to remember:
“Subordinating conjunctions make your ideas dance in harmony instead of marching in a straight line.”
Common Mistakes Learners Make
| Mistake | Why It’s Wrong | Correct Form |
| Because I was tired, so I slept early. | Double connector | Because I was tired, I slept early. |
| Although it rained but we went. | Redundant connectors | Although it rained, we went. |
| I’ll call you when will I reach. | Wrong clause structure | I’ll call you when I reach. |
| He’ll come unless he’s busy. | Wrong use of “unless” (should mean except if) | He’ll come if he isn’t busy. |
Pro Tip: Always read your sentence aloud. If it sounds awkward, you may have mixed conjunction types or misplaced a clause.
Exercises and Practice Sentences
Fill in the blanks with the correct subordinating conjunctions:
- I didn’t go out ___ it was raining.
- She waited ___ the show began.
- ___ you study hard, you’ll pass the test.
- He smiled ___ he was nervous.
- ___ I see you again, I’ll tell you everything.
Answers:
- because
- until
- If
- although
- When
Combine these sentences using subordinating conjunctions:
- I was hungry. I ate lunch. → I ate lunch because I was hungry.
- She finished early. She could relax. → She finished early so that she could relax.
Why Learning Subordinating Conjunctions Improves Writing
Mastering subordinating conjunctions helps your writing sound more fluent, logical, and sophisticated. They add cohesion and clarity—qualities that make readers trust your communication skills.
Benefits of Using Subordinating Conjunctions:
- Improve sentence variety and tone
- Strengthen the relationship between ideas
- Make arguments or stories more persuasive
- Help you sound natural in both writing and speaking
Example of Poor vs. Improved Writing:
| Without Subordinating Conjunctions | With Subordinating Conjunctions |
| I wanted to go. It rained. I stayed home. | I wanted to go, but because it rained, I stayed home. |
Quick Recap Table
| Function | Conjunctions | Example |
| Cause | because, since | I left because it rained. |
| Time | when, before, after | Call me when you arrive. |
| Condition | if, unless | You’ll pass if you study. |
| Contrast | although, whereas | Although it’s late, we’ll go. |
| Purpose | so that, in order that | He spoke softly so that no one heard. |
Conclusion
Learning subordinating conjunctions isn’t just about grammar—it’s about expressing relationships between ideas naturally and clearly. Once you start using them, your writing transforms from a list of facts into a smooth, connected narrative that flows effortlessly.
Practice daily by rewriting short, simple sentences using subordinating conjunctions. Listen to how native speakers use them in movies or podcasts. With time, you’ll start to use them without even thinking—because that’s how natural language works.
Keep exploring, keep practicing, and soon you’ll find that these small words make a big difference in your English fluency and writing style.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the easiest way to learn subordinating conjunctions?
Group them by function—time, cause, contrast, etc.—and make flashcards with examples.
Can a sentence start with a subordinating conjunction?
Yes, absolutely! Just remember to use a comma after the dependent clause.
Example: “Although it was late, we stayed up.”
How do subordinating conjunctions differ from prepositions?
Prepositions link nouns to other words (e.g., on the table), while subordinating conjunctions link clauses.
What’s the difference between “because” and “since”?
Both show reason, but since can also show time.
Example: “Since you’re here, let’s begin.” / “Since morning, I’ve been waiting.”
How can I sound more natural using subordinating conjunctions?
Read and listen to native material. Imitate how writers and speakers combine ideas. Over time, your instincts improve
Related reading:
Coordinating Conjunctions Explained
Complex Sentences in English
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