Subordinating conjunctions
A subordinating conjunction is a word or phrase that joins a dependent (subordinate) clause to an independent clause, showing how the two ideas relate. Common examples include because, although, if, when and since. It shows relationships such as time, reason, condition or contrast, and the dependent clause it introduces cannot stand alone as a complete sentence.
Types of subordinating conjunctions
Time
Show when something happens in relation to another event.
e.g. when, while, after, before, as soon as
Reason/Cause
Explain why something happens.
e.g. because, since, as
Condition
Introduce a condition on which the main clause depends.
e.g. if, unless, provided that
Contrast/Concession
Show a contrast or unexpected result between two ideas.
e.g. although, even though, whereas
Purpose/Result
Show the purpose or result of an action.
e.g. so that, in order that, so...that
Rules to remember
- A subordinating conjunction introduces a dependent clause, which must be attached to an independent clause to form a complete sentence.
- The dependent clause can come before or after the main clause; if it comes first, use a comma after it.
- Do not use a comma when the dependent clause follows the main clause, except with strong contrast words like 'although' or 'whereas'.
- Never use a subordinating conjunction alone to punctuate a full sentence; the dependent clause on its own is a fragment.
- Some words like 'since' and 'as' can show either time or reason, so context determines the meaning.
Examples in sentences
| Example | How it works |
|---|---|
| Although it was raining, we went for a walk. | Contrast clause placed first, followed by a comma. |
| We went for a walk although it was raining. | Contrast clause placed second, no comma needed. |
| I will call you when I arrive. | Time relationship between two clauses. |
| She stayed home because she felt unwell. | Reason clause explaining the main action. |
| Unless you study, you will fail the exam. | Conditional clause introducing a requirement. |
| He saved money so that he could travel abroad. | Purpose clause showing the goal of an action. |
| As soon as the meeting ended, everyone left. | Multi-word subordinating conjunction showing time. |
Common mistakes
Incorrect: Because I was tired.
Correct: I went to bed early because I was tired.
Incorrect: Although he was late, but he still finished the test.
Correct: Although he was late, he still finished the test.
Incorrect: We went out, although it was raining, but we got wet.
Correct: We went out although it was raining, and we got wet.
Why this matters for IELTS
Using a variety of subordinating conjunctions correctly, such as 'although', 'since' and 'provided that', demonstrates complex sentence structures and clear logical relationships between ideas, both of which are rewarded under the Grammatical Range and Accuracy criterion in IELTS Writing and Speaking. Accurate punctuation with these clauses also shows control, helping you avoid fragment errors that can lower your band score.
Frequently asked questions
What is a subordinating conjunction?
It is a word or phrase, such as because, although or if, that connects a dependent clause to an independent clause, showing a relationship like time, reason, condition or contrast.
What is the difference between subordinating and coordinating conjunctions?
Subordinating conjunctions join a dependent clause to an independent clause (unequal parts), while coordinating conjunctions like 'and' or 'but' join two independent clauses of equal grammatical status.
Can a sentence start with a subordinating conjunction?
Yes, this is correct grammar. When the dependent clause starts the sentence, it must be followed by a comma before the main clause, as in 'Because it was late, we left.'
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