Notes on Subordinating Conjunctions
A subordinating conjunction joins an independent clause (complete thought) with a dependent clause (incomplete thought).
Common subordinating conjunctions: after, although, because, before, if, since, unless, until, when, while.
The dependent clause cannot stand alone—it relies on the independent clause.
Subordinating conjunctions show a relationship, such as:
Cause/Effect (because, since, so that)
Time (after, before, until, when, while)
Condition (if, unless)
Contrast (although, though, whereas)
Punctuation Rule:
If the dependent clause comes before the independent clause, use a comma.
Example: Because it was raining, we stayed inside.
If the dependent clause comes after, no comma is usually needed.
Example: We stayed inside because it was raining.
Practice Together
Combine the two sentences using a subordinating conjunction.
We missed the bus. We woke up late.
I’ll bring an umbrella. It might rain later.
She studied hard. She wanted to pass the exam.
We stayed quiet. The baby was sleeping.
I love pizza. I don’t eat it every day.
Answer Key (Practice Together)
We missed the bus because we woke up late.
I’ll bring an umbrella if it might rain later.
She studied hard because she wanted to pass the exam.
We stayed quiet while the baby was sleeping.
I love pizza, although I don’t eat it every day.