Conjunctions are the tools in English grammar that connect words and phrases. Among them are coordinating and subordinating conjunctions, that plays distinct role in the making of sentence. Understanding their differences is important for writing of clear and effective sentences. In this blog, we’ll explore the difference between coordinating and subordinating conjunctions, provide examples, and include a worksheet with exercises and answers to help you learn about their usage.

What are Coordinating and Subordinating Conjunctions?

Read below about Coordinating and Subordinating Conjunctions:-

Coordinating Conjunctions

Coordinating conjunctions connect words, phrases, or independent clauses of equal importance. The most common Coordinating Conjunctions are remembered by the acronym FANBOYS:

• For
• And
• Nor
• But
• Or
• Yet
• So

Coordinating Conjunction Example:

• I wanted to go to the park, but it started raining.

Subordinating Conjunctions

Subordinating conjunctions connect an independent clause with a dependent clause, showing a relationship like cause, effect, time, or condition. Common subordinating conjunctions include:

• Because
• Although
• Since
• If
• When
• While

Subordinating Conjunction Example:

• I stayed home because it started raining.

Difference Between Coordinating and Subordinating Conjunctions

Key Difference Between Coordinating and Subordinating Conjunctions:-

Aspect	Coordinating Conjunctions	Subordinating Conjunctions
Function	Connects equal elements	Connects dependent and independent clauses
Position in Sentence	Between words, phrases, or clauses	Usually at the beginning of a dependent clause
Examples	And, but, or, so	Because, although, if, when

Coordinating and Subordinating Conjunctions Examples

Few Coordinating and Subordinating Conjunctions Examples:-

Coordinating Conjunctions Examples

1. She likes tea and coffee.
2. He wanted to go, but he was too tired.
3. You can have cake or ice cream.

Subordinating Conjunctions Examples

1. Although it was late, we decided to go out.
2. She stayed home because she was sick.
3. If you study hard, you will pass the exam.

Coordinating and Subordinating Conjunctions Sentences

Check out for Coordinating and Subordinating Conjunctions Sentences:-

1. Coordinating: I wanted to play outside, but it was too hot.
2. Subordinating: Since it was raining, we canceled the picnic.

Coordinating and Subordinating Conjunctions Worksheet with Answers

Practice with 3 Coordinating and Subordinating Conjunctions Worksheet with Answers:-

Exercise 1: Identify the Conjunction

Identify whether the underlined conjunction is coordinating or subordinating.

1. She likes apples and oranges.
2. Although it was cold, we went for a walk.
3. He was tired, yet he finished his homework.
4. If you need help, let me know.

Answers:

1. Coordinating
2. Subordinating
3. Coordinating
4. Subordinating

Exercise 2: Fill in the Blanks

Choose the correct conjunction (coordinating or subordinating) to complete the sentences.

1. I wanted to go to the party, ___ I had to study.
2. ___ it was raining, we stayed indoors.
3. She loves reading books ___ watching movies.
4. ___ you finish your work, you can go out.

Answers:

1. but
2. Since
3. and
4. If

Exercise 3: Rewrite the Sentences

Combine the following sentences using coordinating or subordinating conjunctions.

1. I was tired. I went to bed early.
2. She studied hard. She passed the exam.
3. It was raining. We canceled the picnic.

Answers:

1. I was tired, so I went to bed early.
2. Because she studied hard, she passed the exam.
3. Since it was raining, we canceled the picnic.

Conclusion

Understanding the difference between coordinating and subordinating conjunctions is important for making clear & meaningful sentences. While coordinating conjunctions connect equal elements, subordinating conjunctions link dependent and independent clauses to show relationships like cause, time, or condition.