A2 English GrammarSubordinate Clauses
Create complex sentences using subordinate clauses with because, that, when, if, although, and while. Learn how to connect ideas effectively.
1Clauses with Because, Since, As
Use 'because', 'since', or 'as' to give reasons. 'Because' is the most common. 'Since' and 'as' are slightly more formal and often start the sentence.
Examples
I stayed home because I was tired.
I stayed home because I was tired.
because gives the reason
Since it was raining, we took an umbrella.
Since it was raining, we took an umbrella.
since at start of sentence
She didn't come because she was ill.
She didn't come because she was ill.
explains why not
As you know, the meeting is tomorrow.
As you know, the meeting is tomorrow.
as = since (formal)
2Clauses with That
Use 'that' after verbs like think, know, believe, hope, say, tell. 'That' can often be omitted in spoken English, especially after common verbs.
Verbs + That Clause
| Verb | With 'that' | Without 'that' |
|---|---|---|
| think | I think that he's right. | I think he's right. |
| know | I know that she's coming. | I know she's coming. |
| hope | I hope that you feel better. | I hope you feel better. |
| say | She said that she was busy. | She said she was busy. |
Examples
I think that this is a good idea.
I think that this is a good idea.
that can be omitted
He knows she's coming.
He knows she's coming.
that omitted (common)
I believe that you can do it.
I believe that you can do it.
that included
She told me she would be late.
She told me she would be late.
that omitted after told
3Time Clauses with When, While, Before, After
Time clauses show when something happens. Use present tense in the time clause even when talking about the future. Use past tense for past events.
Time Conjunctions
| Word | Meaning | Example |
|---|---|---|
| when | at that time | Call me when you arrive. |
| while | during that time | I read while I wait. |
| before | earlier than | Wash hands before you eat. |
| after | later than | We'll leave after it stops. |
Examples
I'll call you when I get home.
I'll call you when I get home.
present tense after 'when' for future
While I was cooking, the phone rang.
While I was cooking, the phone rang.
while = during
Finish your homework before you watch TV.
Finish your homework before you watch TV.
before = earlier
After she left, I cleaned the house.
After she left, I cleaned the house.
after = later
4Clauses with Although, Even though
'Although' and 'even though' show contrast - the main clause is surprising given the information in the subordinate clause. They are stronger than 'but'.
Examples
Although it was cold, we went swimming.
Although it was cold, we went swimming.
surprising contrast
She passed the exam even though she didn't study.
She passed the exam even though she didn't study.
even though = stronger
Although I was tired, I finished the work.
Although I was tired, I finished the work.
despite being tired
He bought the car even though it was expensive.
He bought the car even though it was expensive.
despite the price