What you'll learn
By the end of this lesson, you'll be able to build sentences where one clause depends on another, expressing precise logical relationships.
When do I use it?
Subordination makes one idea depend on another. The subordinate clause is introduced by a subordinating conjunction:
- Reason: because, since, as, in case.
- Time: when, while, before, after, until, as soon as.
- Condition: if, unless, provided that, even if.
- Contrast: although, even though, whereas.
- Purpose: so that, in order that.
A subordinate clause can come first (comma) or after the main clause (no comma): "Because it rained, we stayed." / "We stayed because it rained."
How do I form it?
subordinator + clause, + main clause main clause + subordinator + clause
- Although he tried hard, he didn't succeed.
- We'll start as soon as everyone arrives.
- Take an umbrella in case it rains.
- She works hard so that her family can study.
- Unless you hurry, you'll miss it.
Common mistakes for Spanish speakers
Spanish speakers often put the subordinate clause after with a comma ("we stayed, because it rained") — no comma is needed there. They also translate "aunque" with both "although" and "but": use only one. And "para que" is "so that + clause", not "for that": "I study so that I pass", never "I study for that I pass". Keep the subject in the subordinate clause: "as soon as I arrive", not "as soon as arrive".
Choose one subordinator per idea. No comma before it when the subordinate clause comes second.
Practice
Multiple Choice
C1Which sentence is correct?
Fill in the Blank
C1I'll call you I get home.
Hint: Time subordinator + subject + verb.
Find the Error
C1Sentence Transformation
C1Task: Join with 'because' keeping cause first
Hint: Subordinate clause first + comma + main clause.
Practice Speaking
Apply what you've learned in a real conversation with AI feedback.
Level: C1