50 Subordinating Conjunction Word List

In the realm of English grammar, subordinating conjunctions play a crucial role in connecting clauses to form complex sentences. These words not only enhance sentence structure but also add depth to the narrative by linking independent clauses with dependent ones. In this article, we explore a comprehensive list of subordinating conjunctions and delve into their usage, importance, and how they can enrich your writing.

Understanding Subordinating Conjunctions

Subordinating conjunctions are words or phrases that connect a subordinate (dependent) clause to an independent (main) clause. The subordinate clause cannot stand alone as a complete sentence because it depends on the main clause to provide context and meaning. Subordinating conjunctions are essential for indicating various relationships between the clauses, such as cause and effect, contrast, purpose, time, and condition.

Why Are Subordinating Conjunctions Important?

The use of subordinating conjunctions is vital for crafting complex sentences that convey intricate ideas. They help writers and speakers express relationships between ideas, making the text more engaging and informative. By using these conjunctions effectively, we can create a more nuanced and sophisticated writing style.

The Complete List of Subordinating Conjunctions

To master the art of using subordinating conjunctions, it is essential to familiarize ourselves with a comprehensive list. Below is an extensive collection of subordinating conjunctions categorized by their function:

Cause and Effect

Because: Introduces a reason for the action in the main clause.
Since: Indicates a reason or cause.
As: Shows cause or reason.
So that: Expresses purpose or effect.
In order that: Indicates purpose or intent.
Now that: Refers to a new situation that results from something else.

Time

After: Indicates that one event follows another.
Before: Shows that one event precedes another.
When: Points to the time of an action.
While: Indicates that two actions are occurring simultaneously.
Until: Shows that an action continues up to a certain point.
As soon as: Denotes that an action occurs immediately after another.

Condition

If: Introduces a condition for the main clause to occur.
Unless: Indicates an exception to the condition.
Provided that: Suggests a condition that must be met.
As long as: Expresses a time condition.
In case: Shows a precautionary condition.

Contrast and Concession

Although: Introduces a contrasting idea.
Though: Similar to “although,” shows contrast.
Even though: Indicates a stronger contrast than “although.”
Whereas: Highlights a difference.
While: Can also show contrast between two ideas.

Purpose

So that: Expresses a purpose.
In order that: Indicates an intention or goal.

Place

Where: Refers to a location.
Wherever: Indicates any location.

Manner

As if: Describes how something appears to be.
As though: Similar to “as if,” indicates appearance.

Using Subordinating Conjunctions Effectively

Understanding the function of each subordinating conjunction is only the first step. To use them effectively, consider the following tips:

1. Choose the Right Conjunction

Selecting the appropriate subordinating conjunction is crucial for clarity and precision. Consider the relationship you want to convey between the clauses, and choose a conjunction that best represents that relationship. For example, use “because” for cause and effect, “if” for condition, and “although” for contrast.

2. Vary Your Sentence Structure

Incorporating subordinating conjunctions into your writing allows for more complex and varied sentence structures. This diversity can enhance the flow and readability of your text. Avoid overusing the same conjunctions, and experiment with different combinations to see what works best for your writing style.

3. Maintain Sentence Balance

When using subordinating conjunctions, ensure that both the main clause and the subordinate clause are clear and concise. The subordinate clause should provide additional information without overshadowing the main clause. Maintaining this balance is key to effective communication.

4. Practice Punctuation

Understanding the punctuation rules associated with subordinating conjunctions is essential. Generally, if the subordinate clause precedes the main clause, a comma should follow the subordinate clause. For example: “Although it was raining, we decided to go for a walk.” However, if the main clause comes first, a comma is usually not needed: “We decided to go for a walk although it was raining.”

Common Mistakes with Subordinating Conjunctions

To ensure your writing is polished and professional, be mindful of common errors associated with subordinating conjunctions:

1. Avoid Sentence Fragments

A subordinate clause cannot stand alone as a sentence. Ensure that each subordinate clause is connected to a main clause to form a complete sentence. For instance, “Because it was raining.” is a fragment and should be connected to a main clause: “We stayed indoors because it was raining.”

2. Don’t Overuse Conjunctions

While subordinating conjunctions add depth to your writing, overusing them can lead to convoluted sentences. Strive for clarity by limiting the number of subordinate clauses in a single sentence.

3. Ensure Logical Relationships

The relationship indicated by the subordinating conjunction should make sense in the context of the sentence. For example, using “although” to introduce a cause and effect relationship would be incorrect.

Enhancing Writing Skills with Subordinating Conjunctions

Mastering subordinating conjunctions can significantly improve your writing skills. By understanding their functions and practicing their use, you can create more engaging and sophisticated text. Here are a few exercises to help you get started:

Exercise 1: Sentence Combination

Combine the following pairs of sentences using subordinating conjunctions:

“It was raining. We decided to go for a walk.” (Use “although”)
“She studied hard. She passed the exam.” (Use “because”)
“I will call you. I arrive home.” (Use “when”)

Exercise 2: Sentence Expansion

Expand the following sentences by adding a subordinate clause:

“We decided to go for a walk.”
“She passed the exam.”
“I will call you.”

Conclusion

Subordinating conjunctions are essential tools for any writer looking to enhance their sentence structure and convey complex ideas effectively. By understanding their functions and practicing their use, we can craft more engaging, nuanced, and sophisticated writing. As we continue to explore the rich tapestry of English grammar, let us embrace the power of subordinating conjunctions to elevate our communication skills.