Learning English grammar can sometimes feel like piecing together a jigsaw puzzle. With so many rules and exceptions, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. One key aspect of English grammar that often confuses learners is the subordinate clause. In this article, we’ll break down what subordinate clauses are, why they are important, and how to use them correctly. Whether you are new to learning English or just need a refresher, this guide will help you understand and master subordinate clauses.

What is a Subordinate Clause?

To start, let’s define what a subordinate clause is. A subordinate clause, also known as a dependent clause, is a group of words that has both a subject and a verb but cannot stand alone as a complete sentence. In other words, it “depends” on a main clause (or independent clause) to make sense. Because they are not complete sentences, subordinate clauses are typically connected to main clauses using subordinating conjunctions such as because, although, if, unless, and when.

Here’s an example for clarity:

Main Clause: She didn’t go to the party.
Subordinate Clause: because she was feeling unwell.

When combined: She didn’t go to the party because she was feeling unwell.

The main clause “She didn’t go to the party” can stand alone as a complete sentence. However, the subordinate clause “because she was feeling unwell” cannot stand alone; it relies on the main clause to form a complete idea.

Types of Subordinate Clauses

Subordinate clauses can be categorized based on their function in the sentence. There are three main types:

1. Adjective Clauses

An adjective clause modifies a noun or pronoun in the main clause. They often start with relative pronouns like who, whom, whose, which, or that.

Example: The book that you lent me was fascinating. In this example, “that you lent me” is a subordinate clause that modifies the noun “book.”

2. Adverb Clauses

An adverb clause modifies a verb, adjective, or another adverb in the main clause. They typically begin with subordinating conjunctions such as because, although, if, or when.

Example: She stayed at home because it was raining. Here, “because it was raining” explains why she stayed at home, functioning as an adverb clause.

3. Noun Clauses

A noun clause functions as a noun in the main clause. They often start with words like that, what, or whatever.

Example: I believe that honesty is the best policy. In this sentence, “that honesty is the best policy” acts as the object of the verb “believe,” making it a noun clause.

Common Subordinating Conjunctions

Subordinate clauses typically begin with subordinating conjunctions. Here are some common ones, categorized by the relationship they indicate:

Cause and Effect: because, since, as, so that
Time: when, while, before, after, until, as soon as
Condition: if, unless, provided that, in case
Contrast: although, though, even though, while
Purpose: so that, in order that

Understanding these conjunctions helps in constructing sentences that clearly express the intended meaning and relationship between ideas.

How to Identify a Subordinate Clause

Identifying a subordinate clause in a sentence can be challenging at first, but with practice, it becomes more natural. Here are some tips:

Look for a conjunction: Subordinate clauses usually start with a subordinating conjunction such as because, although, when, etc.
Check for subject and verb: A subordinate clause will have a subject and a verb, but it won’t make sense on its own without the main clause.
Test for independence: See if the clause can stand alone as a complete sentence. If it cannot, it is likely a subordinate clause.

Example:

As soon as she arrived, the meeting started.

“As soon as she arrived” is the subordinate clause. It starts with the subordinating conjunction “as soon as,” has a subject “she” and a verb “arrived,” but it cannot stand alone as a complete sentence.

Common Mistakes with Subordinate Clauses

Even advanced English learners can make mistakes with subordinate clauses. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them:

1. Sentence Fragments

A sentence fragment often occurs when a subordinate clause is mistakenly punctuated as a complete sentence.

Incorrect: Because I was tired. Correct: I went to bed early because I was tired.

2. Misplaced Commas

Sometimes learners place commas incorrectly within sentences containing subordinate clauses. Generally, when a subordinate clause comes before the main clause, a comma is used. When it comes after the main clause, no comma is needed.

Example:

Correct: Because she studied hard, she passed the exam.
Incorrect: She passed the exam, because she studied hard.
Correct: She passed the exam because she studied hard.

3. Mixing Up Conjunctions

Using the wrong subordinating conjunction can change the meaning of a sentence or make it confusing.

Incorrect: She won’t go to the party when she is tired. Correct: She won’t go to the party if she is tired.

Practical Exercises

The best way to master subordinate clauses is through practice. Here are some exercises you can try:

1. Identify the Subordinate Clauses

Determine which part of each sentence is the subordinate clause. Here are some sentences to get started:

She left the party early because she felt sick.
Although it was raining, we went for a walk.
I’ll call you when I get home.

2. Complete the Sentences

Provide the main clause for these subordinate clauses:

…because it was too late.
…when the sun sets.
…if he asks for help.

3. Rewrite the Sentences

Rewrite each pair of sentences as a single sentence with a subordinate clause:

It was getting dark. We decided to head back.
She loves to read. She finds it relaxing.
Tom didn’t understand the question. He asked for clarification.

Conclusion

Understanding and using subordinate clauses is essential for constructing complex, nuanced sentences in English. They enable speakers and writers to convey more intricate ideas and relationships between different parts of a sentence. By breaking down the types of subordinate clauses and practicing with exercises, you can become more confident in your grammatical skills. Remember to watch out for common mistakes such as sentence fragments, misplaced commas, and choosing the wrong conjunctions. With time and practice, using subordinate clauses will become second nature, enhancing both your spoken and written English.