Subordinating Conjunctions

Subordinating conjunctions link two clauses, a main (independent) one and a subordinate (dependent) one.

Although Emma wanted to go together with them, she declined the invitation.

The most commonly used subordinating conjunctions are although, as, because, if, since, though, unless, while, whereas etc.

Subordinating conjunctions perform two functions in a sentence: they state the importance of the independent clause and provide a transition between two ideas within a sentence.

Once she stopped caring about stranger's opinions *, Liz became happier *.

If the subordinate clause follows the main one, we do not usually use a comma.

My mom cries * whenever she watches a romatic comedy *

If the subordinate clause precedes the main one, use a comma to separate the clauses.

After he had completed his studies *, George decided to travel for a year *.

Guided Practice#

• Whenever/Since you asked me, yes, I did sign up for the class.
• If/Unless you are happy with your own self, you'll be happy whenever/wherever you go.

• After he called her .................... Susan had a smile on her face for the rest of the day.
• Although I adore Mike .................... he isn't the most polite person on earth.
• Billy gets extremely impatient .................... whenever his mom is cooking breakfast.

Short Story using Subordinating Conjunctions#

–Whenever my mom doesn't let my little brother eat candies before dinner, he throws a tantrum!

–That sounds awful!

–Yeah, we don't know what to do about it. Even though we try to be calm and explain that you can have some candy after eating properly, he becomes all whiny.

–Maybe he doesn't like something particular? I remember that I hated broccoli when I was a kid, and yet I was always forced to eat it.

–Hmm, you have a good point.

Independent Practice#

Choose the correct conjunctions.

1. My brother doesn't like cooking if/because he hates cleaning up afterwards.

2. I know that Carol won't go out with us if/while she has a morning shift day.

3. Until/Now that we are grown-ups, we should be in charge of our decisions.

4. As long as/Even though you continue avoiding your fears, you can't live a better life.

5. Bob doesn't go for a run and/unless it's sunny outside.

6. Even though/Because I was very tired, I went to the party.

7. Linda always goes to thrift shops rather than/because she can't afford brand new clothes.

8. I wanted to talk to Mr. Jones, which/whose support was always important to me.

9. Once/While Kate graduates from high school, she wants to travel around the world.

10. That/As soon as the dog hears the doorbell, it runs towards the door.