Here's a breakdown:
* Subordinating conjunctions connect a dependent clause to an independent clause. They show the relationship between the two clauses.
* Dependent clauses cannot stand alone as a complete sentence because they lack a subject and a verb that can function independently. They rely on the independent clause to provide context and meaning.
Examples:
* Because it was raining, we stayed inside. (The dependent clause "because it was raining" is introduced by the subordinating conjunction "because" and tells us why we stayed inside.)
* Although she was tired, she finished the project. (The dependent clause "although she was tired" is introduced by the subordinating conjunction "although" and tells us that she finished the project despite being tired.)
Common subordinating conjunctions:
* After
* Although
* As
* Because
* Before
* If
* Since
* Though
* Unless
* Until
* When
* Where
* While