Any clause that begins with a subordinating conjunction or relative pronoun is a subordinate clause. Common examples of subordinating conjunctions are: as, though, because, if, whether, while, when, before, unless, since and as if.

Common examples of relative pronouns are: who, whom, which, whose, what and that.

Note that a subordinate clause cannot stand alone. It must always be attached to a main clause. An independent clause or main clause does not begin with a conjunction or relative pronoun. Study the examples given below.

• She was not ready. (Main clause)
• As she was not ready. (Subordinate clause)
• It was raining. (Main clause)
• Though it was raining. (Subordinate clause)

Worksheet

Underline the subordinate clause in the following sentences.

1. Although she works hard, she doesn’t earn much.

2. She didn’t come because she was not well.

3. As he was in pain he could not sleep well.

4. If you need help, feel free to call me.

5. Don’t make any important decisions when you are angry.

6. Even though I was out for only a few minutes, I got very wet in the rain.

7. She doesn’t care what I think,

8. She accepted the job because the salary was good.

9. I don’t know whether I can help.

10. Unless he drives carefully he will soon have an accident.

Answers

1. Although she works hard,

2. because she was not well.

3. As he was in pain

4. If you need help,

5. when you are angry.

6. Even though I was out for only a few minutes, .

7. what I think,

8. because the salary was good.

9. whether I can help.

10. Unless he drives carefully