Subordinating conjunctions are essential grammatical tools that link a dependent clause to an independent clause, creating complex and sophisticated sentences. Understanding how to use words like ‘because,’ ‘although,’ and ‘if’ is crucial for clear communication and is a common component of competitive exams and professional writing. This guide provides a complete overview with extensive examples to master their application.
Master Subordinating Conjunctions: The Ultimate Guide with 100+ Examples
Introduction
What are subordinating conjunctions, and why are they so critical for effective communication? Simply put, these words are the architects of complex thought in language. They allow us to show relationships between ideas, transforming simple statements into nuanced and professional-level writing. Whether you are crafting an essay, a business report, or preparing for a tough competitive exam, a firm grasp of subordinating conjunctions is non-negotiable. This article will demystify their usage and provide you with a comprehensive list of examples for reference.
What are Subordinating Conjunctions?
A subordinating conjunction is a word or phrase that connects a dependent (subordinate) clause to an independent (main) clause. The dependent clause cannot stand alone as a complete sentence and relies on the main clause for its full meaning. The subordinating conjunction establishes a logical relationship between the two clauses, such as cause, time, condition, or contrast.
- Independent Clause: “She finished the project.”
- Dependent Clause: “after she received the data”
- Combined with a Subordinating Conjunction: “She finished the project after she received the data.”
Here, “after” is the subordinating conjunction that links the two ideas and shows a time relationship.
Important Tips for Competitive Exams and Students
- Identify the Relationship: The key to using the correct conjunction is to identify the logical relationship between your two ideas. Is it time (when), cause (why), condition (under what circumstance), or contrast (unexpected result)?
- Punctuation is Key: When the dependent clause begins the sentence, it must be followed by a comma. When the independent clause comes first, a comma is usually not needed.
- Correct: “Although it was raining, we went for a walk.”
- Correct: “We went for a walk although it was raining.”
- Avoid Sentence Fragments: A dependent clause by itself is a grammatical error known as a fragment. Ensure every dependent clause is connected to an independent clause.
- Incorrect: “Because I was late.” (Fragment)
- Correct: “I was reprimanded because I was late.”
- Common Exam Focus: Competitive exams often test the correct choice of conjunction to complete a sentence logically. Pay close attention to words like “although/though,” “since/because,” and “lest/in case.”
100 Examples of Subordinating Conjunctions
- after
- although
- as
- as far as
- as if
- as long as
- as soon as
- as though
- because
- before
- even if
- even though
- how
- if
- in case
- in order that
- once
- provided that
- rather than
- since
- so that
- than
- that
- though
- till
- unless
- until
- when
- whenever
- where
- whereas
- wherever
- whether
- while
- why
- as much as
- as though
- assuming that
- given that
- inasmuch as
- lest
- now that
- seeing that
- supposing
- whenever
- wherever
- whilst
- who
- whom
- whose
- which
- whomever
- whatever
- whichever
- until such time as
- by the time
- the moment
- every time
- so long as
- no matter how
- no matter what
- no matter when
- no matter where
- no matter who
- in the event that
- only if
- as if
- just as
- immediately
- directly
- consequently
- hence
- thus
- therefore
- accordingly
- furthermore
- moreover
- nevertheless
- nonetheless
- however
- besides
- indeed
- instead
- likewise
- meanwhile
- subsequently
- then
- thereupon
- whereupon
- albeit
- notwithstanding
- for fear that
- in as much as
- on condition that
- with the result that
- as a result
- for the purpose of
- in spite of the fact that
- due to the fact that
- in the same way that
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on Subordinating Conjunctions
Q1: What is the difference between a subordinating conjunction and a coordinating conjunction (FANBOYS)?
A1: Coordinating conjunctions (For, And, Nor, But, Or, Yet, So) join words, phrases, or two independent clauses of equal importance. Subordinating conjunctions connect a dependent clause to an independent clause, showing that one idea is subordinate to the other.
Q2: Can a sentence start with a subordinating conjunction like ‘because’?
A2: Yes, absolutely. Starting a sentence with “because” is grammatically correct, as long as the dependent clause is followed by a comma and an independent clause. Example: “Because the store was closed, we returned home.”
Q3: How many subordinating conjunctions are there in English?
A3: There is no fixed number, as some are single words (e.g., if, when) and others are complex phrases (e.g., as long as, in order that). A comprehensive list typically includes 50-100 items, with about 20-30 being most common.
Conclusion on Subordinating Conjunctions
Mastering subordinating conjunctions is a fundamental step toward achieving fluency and sophistication in English writing. They are the building blocks for expressing complex ideas with clarity and precision. By understanding their different types, practicing their correct punctuation, and referring to the extensive list provided, you can confidently use subordinating conjunctions to enhance your communication skills for academic, professional, and examination success.
Disclaimer on Subordinating Conjunctions
This article is intended for educational purposes. Grammar rules can have exceptions, and usage may vary in different contexts and styles of English. For authoritative sources, please consult official style guides or grammar textbooks.
Also Read: Mastering “Quotation Marks”: Rules, Examples, and Essential Exam Tips