A subordinate clause is also called a dependent clause because it must be linked with an independent clause to make a complete sentence. A subordinate clause always begins with a subordinating conjunction. Here are several subordinating conjunctions: after, before, because, until, unless
A subordinate clause does not make sense on its own. Look at these subordinate clauses. Each begins with a subordinating conjunction. Each subordinate clause is an incomplete thought.
after I eat dinner
before the bell rings
because it is raining
until the timer rings
unless you have extra cash
If we join each subordinate clause with an independent clause, then we get a complete complex sentence.
I want to go to the store after I eat dinner.
We should finish our lunch before the bell rings.
The cake has to stay in the oven until the timer rings.
We can’t afford to go to the movies unless you have extra cash.
Use the subordinating conjunctions after, before, because, until, unless to begin a subordinate clause. Join a subordinate clause to an independent clause to make a complete complex sentence.
It’s your turn. Add an independent clause to this subordinate clause to make a complete sentence. because it is raining. Did you figure it out? Good for you!