What Is a Subordinating Conjunction?

A subordinating conjunction is a word or phrase that links a dependent clause to an independent clause. This word or phrase indicates that a clause has informative value to add to the sentence’s main idea, signaling a cause-and-effect relationship or a shift in time and place between the two clauses.

Sound complicated? Let’s break it down.

A dependent clause, also known as a subordinate clause, is a clause with two specific qualities. Firstly, it does not express a complete unit of thought on its own; it cannot stand as its own sentence. Secondly, it depends upon an independent clause—one that can stand on its own as a complete sentence—to form a complete idea. If independent and dependent clauses could be likened to Batman and Robin, the dependent, or subordinate clause would be Robin, Batman’s assistant. The independent, main clause would be Batman, his superhero boss.

Subordinating Conjunctions Showing Cause and Effect

The subordinating conjunction that is simplest to explain is because. Because is a conjunction with just one purpose: to show a cause-and-effect relationship between a subordinate clause and a main clause. On its own, a clause beginning with because is incomplete.

Because he wouldn’t wear a seat belt.

We have the sense that there is something missing here. Let’s add an independent clause so this statement has something to lean on.

Robin wasn’t allowed in the Batmobile any longer.

Now we will combine the two in a complex sentence.

Robin wasn’t allowed in the Batmobile any longer because he wouldn’t wear a seatbelt.

In this sentence, “Robin wasn’t allowed in the Batmobile any longer” is an independent clause. It could stand on its own as a complete sentence. A clause that shows a causal relationship such as “because he wouldn’t wear a seatbelt” (answering the question “Why?” or “For what purpose?” is often referred to as a clause of purpose.

Other subordinating conjunctions that can show cause-and-effect relationships and function in the same way are for, as, since, therefore, hence, as a result, consequently, though, due to, provided that, because of, unless, as a result of, and so/so that.

Batman required strict compliance with seat belt rules, hence Robin was not allowed to ride in the Batmobile.

Since Robin refused to wear his seat belt, Batman has banned him from the Batmobile.

Subordinating Conjunctions Signaling Relationships of Time or Place

Another function of subordinating conjunctions is to show a relationship between two clauses involving a transition of time or place. Some examples of such subordinating conjunctions are once, while, when, whenever, where, wherever, before, and after.

Once Batman learned that Robin had not been wearing his seatbelt, he took away his keys to the Batmobile.

Robin looked regretfully at the Batmobile whenever he passed it in the Batcave.

After Batman was done working for the night, Robin took a secret ride in the Batmobile.

Before Robin gets his job in the Batcave back, he must promise to stop playing with the Batmobile.

Comma Placement and Subordinating Conjunctions

Subordinating conjunctions that fall in the middle of a sentence are generally not preceded by a comma. This is the opposite of what is done with coordinating conjunctions, or words that join two independent clauses (for, and, nor, but, or, yet, and sometimes so).

When a subordinate clause begins a sentence, however, the whole clause (but not the subordinating conjunction itself) is followed by a comma.

Whenever, Batman was away, Robin drove the Batmobile.

Whenever Batman was away, Robin drove the Batmobile.

Robin drove the Batmobile, whenever Batman was away.

Robin drove the Batmobile whenever Batman was away.

A Handy List of Subordinating Conjunctions

• after
• although
• as
• as if
• as long as
• as much as
• as soon as
• as though
• because
• before
• by the time
• even if
• even though
• if
• in order that
• in case
• in the event that
• lest
• now that
• once
• only
• only if
• provided that
• since
• so
• supposing
• that
• than
• though
• till
• unless
• until, when
• whenever
• where
• whereas
• wherever
• whether or not
• while

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Mexican Novels to Help You Celebrate Cinco de Mayo

Guest Post by Alice E.M. Underwood

No matter where you are, Cinco de Mayo is a day to celebrate Mexico’s country, culture, and misunderstood military history. The holiday doesn’t mark Mexican Independence, as is commonly thought in other countries that break out the margaritas in honor of May 5—instead, it recognizes Mexico’s unlikely victory over the French in 1862.

But this isn’t a history lesson: it’s a literature lesson. Cinco de Mayo may be an excuse to eat guacamole, but it’s also an excuse to dive into Mexican culture. So in honor of May 5, here are five top Mexican novels. Plus one more for good measure.

The Labyrinth of Solitude, by Octavio Paz (El laberinto de la soledad, 1950) Ironically, first up isn’t a novel at all: it’s a book-length set of essays on what makes Mexico Mexico. Winner of the 1990 Nobel Prize for Literature, Paz meditates on Mexican identity through ideas of solitude, colonialism, indigenous vs. Spanish roots, death, and fiesta—and explores how they all fit together, from Day of the Dead celebrations to politics. Later editions include his essays on the 1968 massacre of Mexican students and Mexico-US relations.

Pedro Páramo, by Juan Rulfo (Pedro Páramo, 1955) A man searches for his father in a town “at the very mouth of hell,” where even the inhabitants may be no more than spirits. Considered by some to be the book that started magical realism—and by Gabriel García Márquez to be the inspiration for One Hundred Years of Solitude—this is a tale of ghostlike memories, tyrannical landowners, and a land and people haunted by powers and passions beyond their control.

The Death of Artemio Cruzo, by Carlos Fuentes (La muerte de Artemio Cruz, 1962) A corrupt old coot on his deathbed recollects his life in flashbacks. While living, Artemio had his fingers in many pies: the Mexican Revolution, the emerging new government, economic dealings with gringo speculators, loves, hates, and a hidden will. Alternating between internal tensions and the broader world, Fuentes explores a body facing its final breaths.

Palinuro of Mexico, by Fernando del Paso (Palinuro de México, 1977) Meandering, mystical, and as medically precise as Gray’s Anatomy (the textbook, not the show), this book is easier to describe as an encyclopedia than a straightforward novel. Some highlights: mythology, Virgil, a medical student and his lover (who is also his cousin), a pile of bones, almost-animate objects, satirical digs at politics and advertising, and more than a touch of surrealism. Sound overwhelming? Dive into the writing: you won’t want to get out.

The Savage Detectives, by Roberto Bolaño (Los detectives salvajes, 1998) So, Bolaño is technically Chilean. At least, that’s where he was born. But he spent years of his youth in Mexico and, as far as books about Mexico go, TSD brings the capital and the country to life. There’s crime, youth culture, underground literary movements, historical events, the drudgery of existence over two decades, and some great Mexican authors thrown into the mix.

The Story of My Teeth, by Valeria Luiselli (La historia de mis dientes, 2012) A baby is born with four early teeth and a coat of fur, and grows up to become an auctioneer and a collector intent on telling the story of his teeth. That means the ones in his own head, but also, he claims, the mighty molars of folks like Plato and Virginia Woolf. In addition to teeth, he collects knowledge, straws, literary allusions, and stories—and his unique style of narration, light egomania, and possible unreliability make this novel an exploration of truth and fiction, as well as a literary adventure for the reader.

Whether you’re Mexican, study Mexico, or just like Mexican food, any and all of these books will give you a powerful story and a link to Mexican history, culture, and literature. What better way to boost the fiesta in your Cinco de Mayo festivities?

5 Famous Cats in Literature

Cats make frequent literary appearances as fascinating, thought-provoking, and sometimes sneaky characters. From early nursery rhymes to contemporary tales, cats are omnipresent stars and sidekicks. To celebrate Adopt-a-Cat month in June, here are five famous cats that feature prominently in some much-loved books.

The Cat in the Hat

One of the best-known title characters in children’s literature, readers can easily identify the Cat in the Hat by his elongated body, striped hat, and red bow tie. In Dr. Seuss’s story, the Cat is notorious for pushing boundaries and questioning the limits of his young charges while their parents are away. As a children’s book, “The Cat in the Hat” tests readers’ limits as well as their reading skills. Though this story is provocative, it’s also a reading primer that’s one of the best-selling children’s books of all time.

Puss in Boots

Puss in Boots, a classic fairy tale and now an animated movie, has its roots in a 16th-century fable by Italian author Giovanni Francesco Straparola. A 17th-century version of the story appeared in the first version of Mother Goose tales, making “Puss in Boots” one of the first nursery rhymes. Its basic premise focuses on the well-dressed cat prompting trickery and deceit to ensure riches and success for his undeserving master. The original story’s emphasis on lying to get ahead has been adapted and downright ignored in later adaptations of the tale.

The Cheshire Cat

The Cheshire Cat, who appears in Lewis Carroll’s “Alice in Wonderland,” is best known for his distinctive smile. In the story, this character can appear and disappear as he pleases, dissolving into nothing but a mischievous grin once he’s had his say. This motif also appears in a carving in a 16th-century English church, believed to be the inspiration for Carroll’s character. Though the cat has a knack for volunteering sage advice amidst confusion, he offers puzzling chatter and mystical sayings almost as often. Nevertheless, the Cheshire Cat represents a pleasantly sane character in a bizarre world.

Mrs. Norris 

This feline character in the “Harry Potter” series has a supporting role as the pet of Argus Filch, the unpopular caretaker of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. A true sidekick, Mrs. Norris is known to have a strong connection with Filch, and even looks like him, with a scrawny build, yellow eyes, and gray fur. Mrs. Norris acts as an excellent spy and even a tattletale at times, alerting her master to unusual events on the school grounds. Throughout the series, the title character and his classmates survive narrow escapes from the sneaky cat, whom they believe can see them even when they’re wearing an invisibility cloak.

Richard Parker

A big cat in the contemporary novel “Life of Pi,” Richard Parker co-stars as the Bengal tiger who accompanies the title character throughout the story. The tiger’s name is somewhat of an inside joke, as it appears to be the result of improperly completed paperwork. Despite the mismatch, the name sticks as the story develops. Though the two characters aren’t friends at the beginning of the novel, they learn to coexist with one another after surviving a sunken ship and a series of struggles on a lifeboat. At the end of hundreds of days stranded at sea, Pi and Richard Parker develop a friendship, lending a happy ending to this unique story.

Throughout literature, cats serve as trusted companions and sneaky adversaries. Consider adopting one of your own, and create your unique adventure together. What famous character would be your cat’s namesake?

What kind of pirate are you?

Hey, mates! In honor of International Talk Like A Pirate Day on September 19th, we put together a wee test to find our which pirate ye be! Take the quiz to find out now.

Thrusted? The Past Tense of Thrust

• Thrust is the standard past tense form of the verb thrust.
• Thrusted exists, but it is rare.

Have you ever flown in an airplane? Thrust is one of the things that makes the aircraft move in the sky. According to HowStuffWorkst, thrust is “the aerodynamic force that pushes or pulls the airplane forward through space.” Planes use jet engines or propellers to create thrust. Why the lesson in aerodynamics? If you understand thrust as a noun, it will help you to get a sense of the verb. To thrust means to propel forward, to push something or someone forcibly in a certain direction.

How to Conjugate Thrust

Look at the conjugation below. Then, try to guess why thrust is one of the easiest irregular verbs to memorize in the present tense.

I thrust you thrust he/she/it thrusts we thrust you thrust they thrust

Thrust doesn’t change much in the present tense! Except for the third person singular form, which features an S at the end, thrust is the form to use. How about the past tense? Typically, you add an -ed to the base form of a verb to form the past tense. Applying this rule, the past tense of thrust would be thrusted. Are there any examples of this form on the web?

Jackson Post 158 was thrusted into the loser’s bracket at the Zone 4 Senior Legion Tournament following Friday’s loss but was able to prevail in thrilling fashion Saturday and advance back to the championship game, where it fell once again to the hosts and ended its season in Ste. Genevieve. —Southeast Missourian

Morin was first to take the stage in the final round of the eighth annual tribute artist competition in Immokalee. He started his set with “Burning Love.” On each “hunka hunka,” Morin punched the air and thrusted his hips, sending the beads on his waistband into a fury. It wasn’t long before a crowd at the Seminole Casino Hotel gathered at the stage, desperate for their moment with — at least in their minds — Elvis Presley. —Naples Daily News

Though you can find examples of thrusted, they are relatively rare. What do writers use instead? Examine these two quotes:

Between the rows of tomatoes were little arachnid weeds that sprouted out instead of up. He knelt down and his right knee—the bad one—flared up from the impact. After taking a moment to wince, he thrust his hand into the soil, which was surprisingly warm for this time of year. He figured the weeds would come up easily, but when he went to pull, they stayed firmly rooted. —Drew Magary, The Hike

Although she has been thrust into the limelight for her stunning performance on a reality TV singing competition in China, Adinda Tasya Mansor is not about to rest on her laurels. —The Star Online, “Adinda already eyeing next round of singing contest in China”

How much more popular is thrust than thrusted? Google Ngram Viewer is an online search engine that compares how many times certain words appear in a large text corpora. In comparison to thrust, thrusted is barely on the chart.

Thrusted just isn’t very popular. Most people use thrust. Now that you know so much about the verb, you can use it to talk about lots of things. In fencing, to jab with the sword is to thrust. You can thrust an object, but you can also thrust yourself figuratively into a conversation or a situation. How will you use this word?

Check Your Answers for Grammar Skills Test—Starter

So, you want to know what your English grammar level is? You’ve come to the right place. This post will cover the answers and additional learning resources for “Grammar Skills Test—Starter.” The Starter test covers Question formation, verb tense, prepositions, subject-verb agreement, and word order.

Correct answers are highlighted. Links go to additional learning resources to help you continue improving.

Fill in the blanks to complete the sentences:

1 ___ can you see? I can see three cats.

• which
• what

Subject(s) Tested: Question words

2 ___ is the sun? It’s in the sky.

• What
• Where

Subject(s) Tested: Question words

3 What __ she see? She can see a plane.

• can
• do

Subject(s) Tested: Question formation

4 Where ___ the students? They’re on the bus.

• is
• are

Subject(s) Tested: Question words, subject-verb agreement

5Are you __ busy?

• a
• an
• No word is needed.

Subject(s) Tested: Article use

6 What punctuation is needed?

Ms Jones went to dinner with Mr and Mrs Brown

• period
• question mark
• exclamation mark

Subject(s) Tested: Punctuation

7Please, call me ___ ten o’clock.

• at
• in
• on
• for
• with

Subject(s) Tested: Common prepositions

8 ___ my stay in New York, I made a few friends.

• During
• At
• On
• While

Subject(s) Tested: Common prepositions

9My uncle ___ in the center of town.

• live
• living
• lives

Subject(s) Tested: Verb conjugation

10What is the correct form of the word?

Are you good at ___ questions?

• write
• writing

Subject(s) Tested: Gerunds

11Select the most natural word order for this sentence.

• He told us an interesting story.
• Us he told a story interesting.
• Us he told an interesting story.
• He told us a story interesting.

Subject(s) Tested: Word order

12The train leaves ___ five minutes. Hurry up!

• at
• on
• in

Subject(s) Tested: Common prepositions

13Last night I went home and _______ TV for an hour.

• heard
• watched
• listened to
• looked at

Subject(s) Tested: Verb use, verb tense

14I love _________ to music.

• listening
• watching
• hearing
• looking

Subject(s) Tested: Gerunds, verb tense

15Which sentence is correct?

• I’m going to make my homework.
• Make the beds.
• I need to remake the task.

Subject(s) Tested: Make/do use