Using Subordinating Conjunctions

Subordinating conjunctions connect a dependent (subordinate) clause to an independent clause. 

A dependent clause can:

• • • describe nouns and pronouns; 

    • describe verbs, adverbs, and adjectives; or 

    • act as the subject or object of another clause. 

Words like as, because, while, until, even though, although, when and if can join these clauses. 

If the dependent clause is placed before the independent clause, it must be separated with a comma: 

You should eat when you are hungry.

When you are hungry, you should eat. 

Examples below.

Conjunctions of Time

Used to say when something happens. 

Examples: as soon as, after, before, since, until, when, whenever, while

I started working after I graduated from university.

Before social media, people spent a lot more time together in person.

Since I moved to the UK, my English has improved a lot. 

Conjunctions of Purpose

Used to tell what the purpose of something is.

Examples: in order to, in order that, so, so that, so as not to, to

I practice yoga every evening in order to relax.

We all need to recycle more so as not to destroy all the planet’s natural resources.

More money needs to be invested so that all children can have an education. 

Conjunctions of Reason

Used to talk about why someone does something. 

Examples: as, because, since, due to

Because of pollution, many people lack clean drinking water.

Culture is important as it gives us a sense of identity.

Due to economic reasons, many people are forced to migrate to find work. 

Conjunctions of Place

Used to talk about places.

Examples: where, wherever

Where I live, there are a lot of job opportunities. 

Global warming will have an impact on us wherever we live. 

Conditional Conjunctions

Used where one clause describes something that can, did, or will happen, if the other clause is or was satisfied.

Examples: as long as, if, on condition that, otherwise, provided that, whether, as long as, unless

Everyone should make their own decisions, provided that they are educated and well-informed.

People can lose weight so long as they exercise and watch what they eat.

If we pay less attention to social media, we will be happier.