Mastering subordinate clauses for proper use of commas in English

Estimated reading time: 3 minutes

Subordinate clauses are an essential part of English sentences. They help us provide extra information, explain ideas, or connect two thoughts. Knowing how to use them correctly, especially when it comes to commas, can make your writing clearer and more polished.

What is a subordinate clause?

A subordinate clause is a group of words that has a subject and a verb but cannot stand alone as a complete sentence. It needs a main clause (independent clause) to make sense. Think of a subordinate clause as a helper—it adds detail to the main idea.

For example:

• Although it was raining, we decided to go for a walk.

Here, “Although it was raining” is the subordinate clause. It doesn’t make sense by itself, but it adds information to the main clause, “we decided to go for a walk.”

When to use a comma with subordinate clauses

The placement of the subordinate clause in a sentence determines whether you need a comma.

1. Subordinate clause at the beginning

When the subordinate clause comes at the beginning of the sentence, you need a comma to separate it from the main clause.

Examples:

• If you study hard, you will pass the exam.
• Because she was late, the teacher scolded her.

The comma acts like a pause, helping the reader transition from the subordinate clause to the main idea.

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2. Subordinate clause at the end

When the subordinate clause comes after the main clause, no comma is needed.

Examples:

• You will pass the exam if you study hard.
• The teacher scolded her because she was late.

Notice that in these cases, the sentence flows smoothly without a comma.

3. Subordinate clause in the middle

Sometimes, a subordinate clause can appear in the middle of a sentence, interrupting the main clause. In such cases, you need commas to set it apart.

Example:

• My brother, who loves basketball, practices every evening.

The commas help to separate the extra information “who loves basketball” from the rest of the sentence.

Common mistakes to avoid

1. Missing commas for introductory subordinate clauses
   Incorrect: Although it was late we continued working.
   Correct: Although it was late, we continued working.
2. Adding unnecessary commas when the subordinate clause is at the end
   Incorrect: We stayed home, because it was raining.
   Correct: We stayed home because it was raining.
3. Confusing subordinate clauses with main Clauses
   Remember, a subordinate clause cannot stand alone. Avoid writing incomplete sentences.
   Incorrect: Because he was tired.
   Correct: Because he was tired, he went to bed early.

To get better at using subordinate clauses and commas, try this exercise:
Add commas where necessary.

1. While she was cooking the phone rang.
2. I couldn’t go to the party because I was sick.
3. My friend who is a great artist painted this portrait.

Answers:

1. While she was cooking, the phone rang.
2. I couldn’t go to the party because I was sick.
3. My friend, who is a great artist, painted this portrait.