Subordinating Conjunctions

The basic word for "because" is yīnwèi 因为, which introduces the reason for something. The cause clause normally comes first, followed by the result.

Conditional clauses use rúguǒ 如果 to introduce an "if" scenario. The result clause states what will or would happen, and can use time particles or modal verbs for nuance.

suīrán 虽然 introduces a concession: something that is true despite another fact. It is often paired with dànshì 但是 or kěshì 可是 to contrast the two clauses.

Time clauses use dāng 当 or shíhòu 时候 to mark "when" something happens. The subordinate clause sets the time, and the main clause describes the event or action.

Purpose clauses use shǐde 使得, yǐbiàn 以便, or cáinéng 才能 to express "so that" an intended result can occur. The structure highlights intention and outcome.

Causes can also be introduced with yóuyú 由于 or gēnjù 根据 for more formal "because of" or "according to." These are often used in written language or reports.

Time clauses for immediate sequences use yī... jiù... 一...就... to mean "as soon as" or "right after." The first clause sets the trigger, and the second shows the quick result.

Concessive conditions like "even if" use jíshǐ 即使 or suànshì 就算 to emphasize that something won't change the outcome. The main clause often has a forceful or resistant tone.

Fángzhǐ 防止 and shēngfáng 生防 can introduce precautionary purpose, while yǐfáng 以防 "in case" is commonly used before a possible negative event. These phrases set intent to avoid a problem.

Dào 到 marks the endpoint of an action or time, often followed by a time or event. The clause with dào shows how long something lasts "until" a certain moment.

Subordinating conjunctions shape the relationship between clauses—use yīnwèi 因为 for reasons, rúguǒ 如果 for conditions, suīrán 虽然 for concessions, and time markers like dāng 当 or particles like yī... jiù... 一...就... for sequences. Purpose connectors such as yǐbiàn 以便 and precautionary phrases like yǐfáng 以防 help signal intention. Practice these common conjunctions with short examples to feel their typical patterns and placements.