What is a subordinating conjunction?
A subordinating conjunction is a connecting word that introduces a dependent clause.
Examples of Subordinating Conjunctions
Let’s look at some subordinating conjunctions examples: because, although, since, while, if, as, after
As the cake baked in the oven, Will mixed the frosting.
Since I started eating breakfast every day, I have had much more energy.
I am going to bed early because my flight leaves at 7:00 a.m. tomorrow.
The outdoor concert was so much fun even though it was raining.
I cannot watch the new episode until I catch up on the first season.
When You Should Use Subordinating Conjunctions in Your Writing
Subordinating conjunctions are used to connect ideas within a sentence and particularly when one idea plays a lesser, or subordinate, role. Subordinating conjunctions begin dependent clauses (the lesser of the two ideas) which can be connected to an independent clause (the higher-ranked idea) to form a complete a sentence.
And just to help you connect the dots, when you have at least one of these dependent clauses and one independent clause, you have a complex sentence. Just remember, if the dependent clause is not connected to an independent clause to form a complete thought, you’ll be left with a sentence fragment.
Finally, keep in mind that subordinating conjunctions are diffferent from coordinating conjunctions and correlative conjunctions. They are all types of conjunctions, but each one functions differently from the other.
Download a Free Worksheet on Subordinating Conjunctions!
Click the image below to download your free worksheet on subordinating conjunctions!
Do your students know the difference between subordinating conjunctions and coordinating conjunctions?
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