Subordinating Conjunctions List | Learn Now How to Use Them

List of Subordinating Conjunctions Fear not, fellow wordsmiths! While you might be familiar with workhorses like "and" and "but," these little words pack a mighty punch when it comes to crafting captivating prose. Imagine your sentences as roads. Coordinating conjunctions (like "and" or "or") simply keep the traffic flowing smoothly from one lane to another. But subordinating conjunctions act like clever detours, introducing interesting side streets and hidden pathways that add depth and dimension to your writing. Think about it: since you're reading this, you're probably curious about how these conjunctions work, right? Well, unlike a dead-end street, these detours lead you to a deeper understanding of the main idea. For instance, although some writers might simply say, "The movie was great," a subordinating conjunction allows you to elaborate: "While the special effects were dazzling, it was the emotional performances that truly resonated with me." See the difference? Learn Conjunctions | Crafting Clear and Captivating Sentences Subordinating Conjunctions by Category Here's a breakdown of subordinating conjunctions by category, along with their meanings and interesting sentences for each: Time Meaning: These conjunctions introduce a time clause. Examples: Since: Since the discovery of penicillin, countless lives have been saved. (Past time) Before: Before the internet, information wasn't as readily available. (Prior to something) When: When the clock struck twelve, the entire town erupted in cheers. (Specific time) As long as: As long as you keep practicing, you'll achieve your goals. (Condition about time) Until: The children played outside until the streetlights flickered on. (Up to a certain point) Whenever: Whenever I visit my grandparents' farm, I feel a sense of peace. (Recurring time) Cause & Effect Meaning: These conjunctions express cause and effect. Examples: Because: Because of the heavy rain, the outdoor concert was cancelled. (Cause) Since: Since you finished your chores early, you can have some extra screen time. (Result) So that: The chef seasoned the dish perfectly so that it would tantalize everyone's taste buds. (Purpose) Learn How to use conjunctions in sentences? Contrast Meaning: These conjunctions express contrast or concession. Examples: While: While the city was bustling with activity, the park remained a tranquil haven. (Contrast) Although: Although she was terrified of heights, she bravely scaled the climbing wall. (Concession) Whereas: Whereas some people prefer the comfort of routine, others crave adventure. (Formal contrast) Condition Meaning: These conjunctions introduce a condition. Examples: If: If you believe in yourself, you can overcome any obstacle. (Positive condition) Unless: Unless you water the plants regularly, they will wilt. (Negative condition) Provided that: Provided that you return the book on time, you can borrow another one. (Condition with emphasis) Reason Meaning: These conjunctions introduce a reason. Examples: As: As the years passed, their friendship only grew stronger. (Reason for change) Since: Since you're already here, why don't you join us for dinner? (Reason for an offer) Because of: Because of your hard work, you received a promotion. (Reason for an outcome) Place Meaning: These conjunctions introduce a location clause. (Less common) Examples: Wherever: Wherever life takes you, always remember the lessons you've learned. (Recurring location) Where: Where there's a will, there's a way. (Proverbial location) Learn Identifying Conjunctions with the Use of Exciting Stories Subordinating Conjunctions (Not Mentioned Above) Here are some subordinating conjunctions not covered in the previous categories, along with their meanings and interesting sentences: In order that: Similar to "so that" but can sound more formal. Expresses purpose. Sentence: In order that everyone could understand the presentation, the speaker used clear and concise language. On condition that: Similar to "provided that" but emphasizes a stricter condition. (Formal) Sentence: On condition that you apologize sincerely, I will forgive you. Now that: Introduces a new situation or development based on something that has happened. Sentence: Now that you've graduated, what are your plans for the future? As if: Makes a comparison that is unlikely or hypothetical. Sentence: The abandoned castle stood there, as if frozen in time. No sooner than: Emphasizes immediacy after something else happens. Sentence: No sooner than the doorbell rang than the dog barked excitedly. Supposing: Introduces a hypothetical situation. (Formal) Sentence: Supposing you win the lottery, what would you do with the money? Less than: Introduces a comparison of inequality. Sentence: The test was less difficult than I anticipated. Despite: Indicates a concession despite something else. (Similar to "even though") Sentence: Despite the rain, the children continued playing outside. Providing: Similar to "provided that" but less formal. Sentence: Providing you finish your chores, you can go to the park.