Subordinating Conjunctions

Subordinating conjunctions signal how the subordinate clause relates to the main clause—whether by time, cause, condition, or contrast. Learn the key ones for each function.

Time conjunctions place actions relative to each other and often trigger the use of the subjunctive or indicative depending on whether the event is completed or anticipated.

Cause conjunctions introduce reasons or explanations. The subordinate clause shows why something happened or will happen.

Condition conjunctions set a requirement that must be met for the main clause to be true or to occur. They often introduce hypothetical or real situations.

Contrast conjunctions introduce opposing ideas or exceptions. They signal that the second clause limits or challenges the first.

Manner and purpose conjunctions explain how something is done or why it is done. They link an action to its method or goal.

Subordinating conjunctions consistently put one idea in a dependent clause to show time, cause, condition, contrast, manner, or purpose. Practice them with short sentences to feel their effects.