Subordinating Conjunctions
The Power Words ⚡
While coordinating conjunctions connect equal parts, subordinating conjunctions are bossy. They join an independent clause (a full sentence) with a dependent clause (a fragment that can't stand alone).
They establish a relationship between the two clauses, such as showing time, reason, condition, or contrast. Many students use the acronym AWUBIS (Although, After, As, While, When, Until, Because, Before, If, Since) to remember the most common ones!
1. If the subordinating conjunction starts the sentence, put a comma after the dependent clause.
Example: Because it was raining, we stayed inside.
2. If the subordinating conjunction is in the middle of the sentence, you usually DO NOT need a comma.
Example: We stayed inside because it was raining.
The AWUBIS Deck 🎴
Tap or click on each category card to see how these conjunctions manipulate sentences.
Words: After, Before, When, While, Until, Since
Action: While I was doing my homework, my phone kept buzzing.
Words: Because, Since, As
Action: We canceled the game because the field was totally flooded.
Words: Although, Even though, Though
Action: Even though he was exhausted, he finished the marathon.
Words: If, Unless, Provided that
Action: You won't level up unless you defeat the final boss.
Level Up: The 20-Question Challenge 🎮
Test your skills! Select the correct subordinating conjunction to complete the sentence. Watch out for the context clues! Options are shuffled every time.