20 Examples of Subordinating Conjunctions In Sentences
Understanding subordinating conjunctions is essential for crafting complex and nuanced sentences. Subordinating conjunctions link dependent clauses to independent clauses, creating a relationship between them. This article will delve into 20 examples of subordinating conjunctions used in sentences, offering comprehensive explanations and detailed usage.
What Are Subordinating Conjunctions?
Subordinating conjunctions are words that connect an independent clause (a clause that can stand alone as a sentence) to a dependent clause (a clause that cannot stand alone). They introduce the dependent clause and explain the relationship between the two clauses. Some common subordinating conjunctions include because, although, since, unless, and while.
Examples of Subordinating Conjunctions in Sentences
1. Because
Example: She stayed home because she was feeling unwell.
Explanation: In this sentence, “because” introduces the reason for the action in the main clause. It links the dependent clause “she was feeling unwell” to the independent clause “she stayed home.”
2. Although
Example: Although it was raining, they decided to go for a hike.
Explanation: “Although” introduces a contrast or concession. The dependent clause “it was raining” is connected to the independent clause “they decided to go for a hike,” indicating that the rain did not deter their decision.
3. Since
Example: Since he started working out, he has felt more energetic.
Explanation: “Since” introduces a cause or reason. The dependent clause “he started working out” explains why the subject “he” has felt more energetic.
4. Unless
Example: You won’t succeed unless you try.
Explanation: “Unless” sets a condition. The dependent clause “you try” indicates the condition under which the independent clause “you won’t succeed” is true.
5. While
Example: While she was cooking, he was setting the table.
Explanation: “While” introduces simultaneous actions. The dependent clause “she was cooking” occurs at the same time as the independent clause “he was setting the table.”
6. After
Example: After the meeting ended, everyone left the room.
Explanation: “After” introduces a sequence of events. The dependent clause “the meeting ended” precedes the action in the independent clause “everyone left the room.”
7. Before
Example: She finished her homework before she went to bed.
Explanation: “Before” introduces a sequence of events where the action in the dependent clause “she went to bed” follows the action in the independent clause “she finished her homework.”
8. Though
Example: Though he was tired, he continued to work.
Explanation: “Though” introduces a contrast or concession. The dependent clause “he was tired” contrasts with the independent clause “he continued to work.”
9. If
Example: If it rains tomorrow, we will cancel the picnic.
Explanation: “If” sets a condition. The dependent clause “it rains tomorrow” indicates the condition under which the independent clause “we will cancel the picnic” is true.
10. As
Example: As the sun set, the sky turned orange.
Explanation: “As” introduces simultaneous actions or events. The dependent clause “the sun set” happens at the same time as the independent clause “the sky turned orange.”
11. Though
Example: Though she was nervous, she gave a great performance.
Explanation: “Though” introduces a contrast or concession. The dependent clause “she was nervous” contrasts with the independent clause “she gave a great performance.”
12. Even though
Example: Even though they were late, they managed to catch the train.
Explanation: “Even though” introduces a strong contrast or concession. The dependent clause “they were late” contrasts with the independent clause “they managed to catch the train.”
13. Whenever
Example: Whenever he travels, he sends postcards.
Explanation: “Whenever” introduces a condition or a time frame. The dependent clause “he travels” sets the time frame for the independent clause “he sends postcards.”
14. Wherever
Example: Wherever they go, they take their dog.
Explanation: “Wherever” introduces a condition related to place. The dependent clause “they go” sets the condition for the independent clause “they take their dog.”
15. Because of
Example: They canceled the event because of the weather.
Explanation: “Because of” introduces a reason or cause. The dependent clause “the weather” explains why the independent clause “they canceled the event” is true.
16. In case
Example: Take an umbrella in case it rains.
Explanation: “In case” sets a condition. The dependent clause “it rains” indicates the condition under which the independent clause “take an umbrella” is true.
17. As soon as
Example: As soon as he arrives, we will start the meeting.
Explanation: “As soon as” introduces a sequence of events. The dependent clause “he arrives” sets the time for the independent clause “we will start the meeting.”
18. Provided that
Example: You can go out provided that you finish your homework.
Explanation: “Provided that” sets a condition. The dependent clause “you finish your homework” indicates the condition under which the independent clause “you can go out” is true.
19. So that
Example: He worked hard so that he could save money.
Explanation: “So that” introduces a purpose. The dependent clause “he could save money” explains the reason for the action in the independent clause “he worked hard.”
20. Rather than
Example: Rather than complain, she decided to take action.
Explanation: “Rather than” introduces an alternative. The dependent clause “complain” contrasts with the independent clause “she decided to take action.”
Conclusion
Subordinating conjunctions are vital for constructing complex sentences that clearly convey relationships between ideas. By understanding and using these conjunctions effectively, we can enhance the clarity and depth of our writing. Practice incorporating these 20 examples of subordinating conjunctions into your sentences to improve your writing skills and create more engaging content.
