Adverbial clauses grammar in English

Language: English
Level: B2
Unit: Complex Sentences and Linking
Practice types: 0

What this grammar point covers

An adverbial clause is a group of words with a subject and verb that acts like an adverb in a sentence. It gives more information about when, why, how, or under what condition something happens.

When to use it

Use adverbial clauses to give extra information about actions. They explain time, reason, condition, contrast, or manner in a sentence.

Key forms

Subordinating conjunction + subject + verb (e.g., because she was tired, although it was raining)
Common conjunctions: because, although, if, when, after, before, since, while, unless

Examples

I went home because I was tired.

If it rains, we will stay inside.

She smiled although she was sad.

Call me when you arrive.

Tips

Remember to use a comma when the adverbial clause comes at the beginning of the sentence.
The adverbial clause cannot stand alone; it needs a main clause.
Choose the correct conjunction to show the right meaning (time, reason, contrast, etc.).

Exceptions and edge cases

Sometimes, the subject can be omitted in adverbial clauses of time if it is the same as the main clause.
Some adverbial clauses can be reduced by removing the subject and using the -ing form.