Subordinating Conjunctions
Subordinating conjunctions are words that link an independent clause with a dependent clause, creating a complex sentence. The dependent clause introduced by a subordinating conjunction cannot stand alone as a complete sentence and depends on the main clause for its meaning.
Functions of Subordinating Conjunctions
To better understand subordinating conjunctions and their functions, let’s look at them in a condensed table format:
Subordinating Conjunctions | Function |
---|---|
After, Before, When, While, Until | Indicate time. |
Although, Even though, Though | Introduce a contrast or concession. |
Because, Since, As | Show reason or cause. |
If, Unless, Provided that, As long as | Indicate a condition. |
Where, Wherever | Indicate place. |
Whereas | Introduce a contrast. |
In order that, So that | Indicate purpose. |
Example Sentences Using Subordinating Conjunctions
Indicating time:
Example: We will go to the park after we finish our homework.
➔Explanation: “After” indicates that going to the park will occur following the completion of homework.
Introducing a contrast or concession:
Example: Although it was raining, they decided to go for a walk.
➔Explanation: “Although” introduces a contrast between the rain and the decision to go for a walk.
Showing reason or cause:
Example: He stayed home because he was feeling sick.
➔Explanation: “Because” shows the reason for staying home (feeling sick).
Indicating a condition:
Example: If it rains tomorrow, we will cancel the picnic.
➔Explanation: “If” indicates a condition (rain) that will lead to canceling the picnic.
Indicating place:
Example: She found her keys where she had left them.
➔Explanation: “Where” indicates the place she found her keys.
Introducing a contrast:
Example: He prefers tea, whereas she likes coffee.
➔Explanation: “Whereas” introduces a contrast between his preference for tea and her liking for coffee.
Indicating purpose:
Example: She took a day off so that she could rest.
➔Explanation: “So that” indicates the purpose (resting) for taking a day off.