Subordinating Conjunctions: Mastering Complex Sentence Structure

Subordinating conjunctions are the unsung heroes of complex sentences, providing the crucial link between independent and dependent clauses. Understanding how to wield these powerful words is essential for crafting nuanced, sophisticated, and clear writing.

This article will delve into the world of subordinating conjunctions, exploring their definition, function, types, and usage rules. Whether you are a student grappling with grammar for the first time or a seasoned writer aiming to refine your skills, this guide will equip you with the knowledge and practice needed to master the art of complex sentence construction.

By mastering subordinating conjunctions, you can transform simple sentences into complex and meaningful expressions, adding depth and clarity to your communication. This guide is designed for English language learners of all levels, from beginners seeking a solid foundation to advanced students aiming to refine their grammar skills and writing proficiency.

Let’s embark on this journey to unlock the power of subordinating conjunctions and elevate your writing to new heights.

Table of Contents

• Definition of Subordinating Conjunctions
• Structural Breakdown
• Types of Subordinating Conjunctions
• Examples of Subordinating Conjunctions
• Usage Rules
• Common Mistakes
• Practice Exercises
• Advanced Topics
• FAQ
• Conclusion

Definition of Subordinating Conjunctions

A subordinating conjunction is a word or phrase that connects a dependent (or subordinate) clause to an independent (or main) clause. The subordinating conjunction establishes the relationship between these two clauses, indicating time, cause, condition, contrast, or other connections. In essence, it transforms an independent clause into a dependent clause, making it rely on the main clause for its full meaning. Subordinating conjunctions are the cornerstone of complex sentences, allowing writers to express intricate ideas and relationships.

Think of a subordinating conjunction as a bridge. It links two distinct parts of a sentence, but it also defines the nature of that connection.

Without it, the dependent clause would stand alone as a sentence fragment, lacking the necessary context to convey its intended meaning. This ability to create complex relationships between ideas is what makes subordinating conjunctions so vital for effective communication.

Classification

Subordinating conjunctions are classified based on the type of relationship they express between the dependent and independent clauses. These classifications include time, cause, condition, contrast, purpose, place, and manner.

Recognizing these categories helps in understanding the specific function of each conjunction and how it shapes the meaning of the sentence. Knowing the classification will allow you to use the correct subordinating conjunction in your sentences.

Function

The primary function of a subordinating conjunction is to introduce a dependent clause and connect it to an independent clause. This connection establishes a specific relationship between the two clauses, such as cause and effect, time sequence, or conditional dependence.

Subordinating conjunctions add layers of meaning and complexity to sentences, allowing for more nuanced and detailed expression. Without them, sentences would be limited to simple statements, lacking the ability to convey complex relationships between ideas.

Contexts

Subordinating conjunctions are used in a wide variety of contexts, from academic writing and formal reports to casual conversations and creative storytelling. They are essential for constructing complex arguments, providing detailed explanations, and creating vivid descriptions.

Whether you are writing an essay, composing an email, or telling a story, subordinating conjunctions are indispensable tools for effective communication. The ability to use them correctly enhances clarity, precision, and sophistication in your writing.

Structural Breakdown

The structure of a complex sentence involving a subordinating conjunction is typically as follows: [Subordinating Conjunction + Dependent Clause] + Independent Clause or Independent Clause + [Subordinating Conjunction + Dependent Clause]. The dependent clause cannot stand alone as a sentence because it begins with a subordinating conjunction. The independent clause, on the other hand, can stand alone as a complete sentence. Understanding this basic structure is crucial for correctly constructing and interpreting complex sentences.

The placement of the dependent clause can affect the flow and emphasis of the sentence. When the dependent clause comes first, it is usually followed by a comma.

When the independent clause comes first, the comma is often omitted, unless the dependent clause is nonrestrictive (provides extra, non-essential information). These structural considerations contribute to the overall clarity and effectiveness of the sentence.

Dependent Clause

A dependent clause, also known as a subordinate clause, is a group of words that contains a subject and a verb but cannot stand alone as a complete sentence. It relies on the independent clause for its meaning and grammatical completeness.

The dependent clause is introduced by a subordinating conjunction, which establishes its relationship to the main clause. Without the independent clause, the dependent clause is a sentence fragment.

Independent Clause

An independent clause, also known as a main clause, is a group of words that contains a subject and a verb and can stand alone as a complete sentence. It expresses a complete thought and does not rely on any other clause for its meaning.

In a complex sentence, the independent clause is the core of the sentence, while the dependent clause provides additional information or context.

Comma Usage

Comma usage in complex sentences with subordinating conjunctions depends on the placement of the dependent clause. If the dependent clause comes before the independent clause, a comma is typically used to separate the two clauses.

If the independent clause comes before the dependent clause, a comma is usually not necessary, unless the dependent clause is nonrestrictive. Correct comma usage is essential for clarity and readability.

Types of Subordinating Conjunctions

Subordinating conjunctions can be categorized based on the type of relationship they establish between the dependent and independent clauses. Understanding these categories can help you choose the appropriate conjunction to express the intended meaning.

Time

Time conjunctions indicate when an action or event occurred in relation to another. Common time conjunctions include after, before, when, while, since, until, as soon as, as long as, and whenever. These conjunctions help establish a chronological sequence or simultaneous occurrence of events.

Cause

Cause conjunctions indicate the reason or cause for an action or event. Common cause conjunctions include because, since, as, and inasmuch as. These conjunctions explain why something happened or is happening.

Condition

Condition conjunctions introduce a condition under which an action or event will occur. Common condition conjunctions include if, unless, provided that, as long as, in case, and on condition that. These conjunctions express hypothetical situations or requirements for something to happen.

Contrast

Contrast conjunctions indicate a contrast or opposition between two ideas. Common contrast conjunctions include although, though, even though, whereas, and while. These conjunctions highlight differences or unexpected relationships between the clauses.

Purpose

Purpose conjunctions indicate the purpose or intention behind an action or event. Common purpose conjunctions include so that, in order that, and lest. These conjunctions explain why someone did something or intends to do something.

Place

Place conjunctions indicate the location or place where an action or event occurred. Common place conjunctions include where and wherever. These conjunctions specify the location of an action or event.

Manner

Manner conjunctions indicate how an action or event occurred. The most common manner conjunction is as. These conjunctions describe the way in which something happened.

Examples of Subordinating Conjunctions

This section provides extensive examples of subordinating conjunctions in various contexts, categorized by type. Each example illustrates the specific relationship established by the conjunction between the dependent and independent clauses.

The tables below provide a comprehensive overview of how these conjunctions function in sentences.

Time Examples

The following table provides examples of subordinating conjunctions used to indicate time. Each example demonstrates how the conjunction connects a dependent clause to an independent clause, establishing a temporal relationship between the two.

Subordinating Conjunction	Example Sentence
After	After the rain stopped, we went for a walk.
Before	Before you leave, please turn off the lights.
When	When the sun sets, the temperature drops.
While	While I was cooking, he was doing the dishes.
Since	Since I moved here, I’ve been much happier.
Until	We waited until the bus arrived.
As soon as	As soon as I finish this, I’ll call you.
As long as	As long as you study hard, you will succeed.
Whenever	Whenever I feel stressed, I listen to music.
Once	Once you start, you can’t stop.
Ere	We must finish ere the sun doth set.
Till	I will wait till you are ready.
By the time	By the time he arrived, the party was over.
Now that	Now that the semester is over, I can relax.
The moment	The moment I saw her, I knew.
The instant	The instant he touched it, it broke.
Directly	Directly she spoke, everyone listened.
Scarcely…when	Scarcely had I arrived when the phone rang.
Hardly…when	Hardly had I closed my eyes when the baby cried.
No sooner…than	No sooner had I sat down than the doorbell rang.
Immediately	Immediately after the show, we went backstage.
Following	Following the announcement, there was silence.
Subsequent to	Subsequent to the meeting, a decision was made.
Previous to	Previous to the invention of the printing press, books were rare.
Simultaneously	Simultaneously as the music started, the dancers began.
Concurrently	Concurrently with the economic boom, there was a rise in pollution.

Cause Examples

The following table provides examples of subordinating conjunctions used to indicate cause. Each example demonstrates how the conjunction connects a dependent clause to an independent clause, explaining the reason or cause for an action or event.

Subordinating Conjunction	Example Sentence
Because	Because it was raining, we stayed inside.
Since	Since you’re not feeling well, you should rest.
As	As it was getting late, we decided to go home.
Inasmuch as	Inasmuch as you are my friend, I will help you.
Seeing that	Seeing that everyone is here, we can start the meeting.
Now that	Now that the project is complete, we can celebrate.
Due to the fact that	Due to the fact that the weather was bad, the flight was delayed.
Considering that	Considering that he’s new to the job, he’s doing well.
Given that	Given that the evidence is clear, the verdict is obvious.
For	He must be sick, for he is not here today.
On account of	On account of the traffic, we were late.
By reason of	By reason of his hard work, he succeeded.
In view of the fact that	In view of the fact that he has experience, he is a good candidate.
In that	The plan is good in that it is cost-effective.
As long as	I’ll help you as long as you try your best.
For the reason that	For the reason that he was unprepared, he failed the test.
So that	Study hard so that you can pass the exam.
So as to	He exercised so as to improve his health.
Since	Since you’re here, you can help me.
Because of	Because of the storm, the power went out.
Out of	He did it out of kindness.
From	He suffered from the heat.
Seeing as	Seeing as it’s your birthday, you can choose the restaurant.
In consequence of	In consequence of his actions, he faced the consequences.
By virtue of	By virtue of his position, he has certain privileges.

Condition Examples

The following table provides examples of subordinating conjunctions used to indicate condition. Each example demonstrates how the conjunction connects a dependent clause to an independent clause, expressing a hypothetical situation or requirement for something to happen.

Subordinating Conjunction	Example Sentence
If	If it rains, we will stay home.
Unless	Unless you hurry, you will miss the bus.
Provided that	Provided that you have a ticket, you can enter.
As long as	As long as you promise to be careful, you can borrow my car.
In case	In case it snows, bring a shovel.
On condition that	On condition that you return it tomorrow, you can have my book.
Assuming that	Assuming that the weather is good, we will go for a picnic.
Supposing that	Supposing that you win the lottery, what would you do?
Even if	Even if it’s difficult, I will try my best.
Only if	Only if you ask nicely will I help you.
Whether or not	Whether or not you agree, I’m going ahead.
So long as	So long as you keep practicing, you’ll improve.
Given that	Given that you have the skills, you should apply for the job.
Considering that	Considering that he’s new, he’s doing very well.
In the event that	In the event that there’s a fire, use the emergency exit.
If and only if	A triangle is equilateral if and only if all its angles are equal.
If only	If only I had studied harder!
In so far as	In so far as it depends on me, you’ll get the help you need.
Providing	Providing the weather cooperates, we’ll have a great time.
Lest	He ran quickly lest he should miss the train.
Given	Given the circumstances, we must be cautious.
Once	Once you start, you can’t stop.
Whenever	Whenever you need help, call me.
Wherever	Wherever you go, I will follow.

Usage Rules

Proper usage of subordinating conjunctions involves understanding their specific meanings and the grammatical rules governing their placement and punctuation. The following rules will help you use subordinating conjunctions correctly.

1. Choose the correct conjunction: Select the conjunction that accurately reflects the relationship between the dependent and independent clauses (time, cause, condition, contrast, etc.).
2. Place the dependent clause correctly: The dependent clause can come before or after the independent clause. If it comes first, use a comma to separate the clauses.
3. Use commas appropriately: When the dependent clause precedes the independent clause, a comma is required. When the independent clause precedes the dependent clause, a comma is generally not needed unless the dependent clause is nonrestrictive.
4. Avoid sentence fragments: Ensure that the dependent clause is always connected to an independent clause. A dependent clause cannot stand alone as a complete sentence.
5. Maintain subject-verb agreement: Ensure that the verbs in both the dependent and independent clauses agree with their respective subjects.

Exceptions

While the above rules generally apply, there are exceptions to be aware of:

• Nonrestrictive clauses: If the dependent clause provides extra, non-essential information, it should be set off by commas, regardless of its position in the sentence.
• Stylistic choices: In some cases, writers may choose to omit the comma even when the dependent clause comes first, for stylistic effect. However, this should be done sparingly and with careful consideration of clarity.

Common Mistakes

Several common mistakes can occur when using subordinating conjunctions. Being aware of these errors can help you avoid them in your writing.

• Using a subordinating conjunction to connect two independent clauses: This creates a run-on sentence. Use a semicolon or a coordinating conjunction instead.
• Omitting the comma when the dependent clause comes first: This can make the sentence difficult to read and understand.
• Creating sentence fragments: A dependent clause cannot stand alone as a sentence. It must be connected to an independent clause.
• Choosing the wrong conjunction: Using the wrong conjunction can change the meaning of the sentence.

Here’s a table illustrating common mistakes and their corrections:

Incorrect	Correct	Explanation
Because it was raining we stayed inside.	Because it was raining, we stayed inside.	Missing comma after the dependent clause.
Although he was tired, but he kept working.	Although he was tired, he kept working.	Redundant “but” after “although.”
Since. I like ice cream.	Since I like ice cream, I eat it often.	“Since” clause cannot stand alone.
If I would have known, I would have helped.	If I had known, I would have helped.	Incorrect verb tense in the “if” clause.

Practice Exercises

Test your understanding of subordinating conjunctions with these practice exercises. Fill in the blanks with the appropriate subordinating conjunction from the options provided.

Exercise 1: Identifying Subordinating Conjunctions

Choose the correct subordinating conjunction to complete each sentence.

1. _______ it rained, the game was cancelled. (Because, Although, If)
2. I will call you _______ I arrive. (when, until, before)
3. _______ you study hard, you will pass the exam. (Unless, If, Although)
4. _______ she was tired, she finished her work. (Because, Although, Since)
5. We can go to the park _______ you want to. (if, unless, because)
6. _______ I have finished my homework, I will watch TV. (After, Before, While)
7. _______ you leave, please remember to lock the door. (After, Before, Until)
8. _______ he is rich, he is not happy. (If, Although, Because)
9. _______ you tell me the truth, I will not trust you. (Unless, If, Because)
10. She started to cry _______ she heard the news. (when, while, before)

Answer Key:

1. Because
2. when
3. If
4. Although
5. if
6. After
7. Before
8. Although
9. Unless
10. when

Exercise 2: Completing Sentences with Subordinating Conjunctions

Complete each sentence using an appropriate subordinating conjunction and a dependent clause.

1. _______, I will go to the store.
2. She was happy _______ .
3. _______, we decided to stay home.
4. He will succeed _______ .
5. _______, I always feel better.
6. They arrived _______ .
7. _______, she started to sing.
8. I will forgive you _______ .
9. _______, he apologized for his mistake.
10. She couldn’t sleep _______ .

Possible Answer Key:

1. After I finish my work, I will go to the store.
2. She was happy because she received a good grade.
3. Because it was raining, we decided to stay home.
4. He will succeed if he works hard.
5. Whenever I listen to music, I always feel better.
6. They arrived before the movie started.
7. When she felt the music, she started to sing.
8. I will forgive you if you tell me the truth.
9. After he realized his mistake, he apologized for his mistake.
10. She couldn’t sleep because she was worried.

Exercise 3: Correcting Sentences with Subordinating Conjunctions

Identify and correct the errors in the following sentences.

1. Because it was raining we stayed inside.
2. Although he was tired but he kept working.
3. Since. I like ice cream.
4. If I would have known, I would have helped.
5. I will go to the party, unless I am sick.

Answer Key:

1. Corrected: Because it was raining, we stayed inside. (Added comma)
2. Corrected: Although he was tired, he kept working. (Removed “but”)
3. Corrected: Since I like ice cream, I eat it often. (Combined into one sentence)
4. Corrected: If I had known, I would have helped. (Corrected verb tense)
5. Corrected: I will go to the party unless I am sick. (Removed comma)

Advanced Topics

For advanced learners, understanding the nuances of subordinating conjunctions can further enhance their writing skills. This includes recognizing the subtle differences in meaning between similar conjunctions and mastering the use of complex sentence structures.

• Distinguishing between similar conjunctions: Understanding the subtle differences between conjunctions like “since” and “because” or “although” and “though” can add precision to your writing.
• Using complex sentence structures: Combining multiple dependent clauses with an independent clause can create sophisticated and nuanced sentences.
• Varying sentence structure: While subordinating conjunctions are essential, avoid overusing them. Vary your sentence structure to maintain reader engagement.

FAQ

1. What is the difference between a subordinating conjunction and a coordinating conjunction?

   A coordinating conjunction (e.g., and, but, or) connects two independent clauses, while a subordinating conjunction connects a dependent clause to an independent clause. Coordinating conjunctions create compound sentences, whereas subordinating conjunctions create complex sentences.

2. Can a sentence start with a subordinating conjunction?

   Yes, a sentence can start with a subordinating conjunction. When the dependent clause comes first, it is followed by a comma before the independent clause.

3. Do I always need a comma after a dependent clause?

   Generally, yes, if the dependent clause comes before the independent clause. However, if the independent clause comes first, a comma is usually not needed, unless the dependent clause is nonrestrictive.

4. What happens if I use the wrong subordinating conjunction?

   Using the wrong subordinating conjunction can change the meaning of the sentence and make it unclear or illogical.

5. Can I use more than one subordinating conjunction in a sentence?

   Yes, you can use more than one subordinating conjunction in a sentence, especially when creating complex sentences with multiple dependent clauses. However, ensure that the sentence remains clear and easy to understand.

6. What are some common subordinating conjunctions?

   Some common subordinating conjunctions include because, if, when, although, since, until, while, before, and after.

7. How do I avoid creating sentence fragments with subordinating conjunctions?

   Ensure that every dependent clause introduced by a subordinating conjunction is connected to an independent clause to form a complete sentence.

8. Is it better to start a sentence with an independent clause or a dependent clause?

   There is no definitive “better” way. Starting with a dependent clause can add emphasis or create a specific flow, while starting with an independent clause can provide a more direct and straightforward statement. Varying your sentence structure can make your writing more engaging.

9. Are ‘that’, ‘what’, ‘who’, ‘which’, ‘whose’ and ‘whom’ considered subordinating conjunctions?

   While these words can introduce subordinate clauses, they are generally classified as relative pronouns or relative adverbs, not subordinating conjunctions. They introduce relative clauses, which function as adjectives modifying nouns or pronouns.

10. How can I improve my understanding and use of subordinating conjunctions?

    Practice identifying and using subordinating conjunctions in your writing. Read widely and pay attention to how they are used in different contexts. Complete grammar exercises and seek feedback on your writing.

11. Are there any regional variations in the use of certain subordinating conjunctions?

    While the core function of subordinating conjunctions remains consistent, certain conjunctions or their specific usages might be more prevalent in certain regions or dialects. Awareness of these variations can enhance understanding of diverse communication styles.

Conclusion

Mastering subordinating conjunctions is a crucial step towards becoming a proficient and articulate writer. By understanding their definition, function, types, and usage rules, you can construct complex sentences that convey intricate ideas with clarity and precision.

This article has provided a comprehensive guide to subordinating conjunctions, equipping you with the knowledge and practice needed to confidently use them in your writing.

Remember to choose the correct conjunction, place the dependent clause appropriately, and use commas correctly. Avoid common mistakes such as creating sentence fragments or using the wrong conjunction.

With consistent practice and attention to detail, you can harness the power of subordinating conjunctions to elevate your writing and communication skills. Keep practicing, and you’ll find your writing becoming more sophisticated and effective.