Subordinating conjunctions are words or phrases that connect a subordinate (dependent) clause to a main (independent) clause, creating a complex sentence. Subordinating conjunctions introduce the dependent clause and establish a relationship of dependence or subordination between the clauses, indicating the nature of the relationship between the ideas expressed in each clause.
Key features of subordinating conjunctions:
- Relationship Indicators: Subordinating conjunctions signal the relationship between the dependent and independent clauses. They often convey various relationships, including cause-and-effect, time, contrast, condition, etc.
Examples:
Cause-and-effect: because, since, as. She stayed home because she wasn’t feeling well.
Time: when, while, after, before, since. We’ll go for a walk when the rain stops.
- Introduction of Subordinate Clauses: Subordinating conjunctions introduce subordinate clauses, which cannot stand alone as complete sentences but rely on the main clause for context and meaning.
Example: Although it was raining, they decided to go for a picnic. In this sentence, “Although” is the subordinating conjunction introducing the subordinate clause.
- Placement in Sentences: Subordinating conjunctions typically appear at the beginning of the subordinate clause, connecting it to the main clause. However, they can sometimes be placed elsewhere for emphasis or stylistic reasons.
Example: She went to the store after she finished her work.
Common subordinating conjunctions include:
- Cause-and-Effect: because, since, as, so that
- Time: when, while, after, before, since, until, as soon as
- Condition: if, unless, provided that, in case
- Contrast: although, though, even though, while, whereas
- Concession: although, though, even though
- Place: where, wherever
Conclusion
Understanding and correctly using subordinating conjunctions contribute to constructing grammatically sound and well-structured complex sentences in writing.
