No salgo porque está lloviendo.
English: I don't go out because it is raining.
- Language
- Spanish
- Level
- B1
- Unit
- Conjunciones y oraciones subordinadas
- Practice types
- 0
What this grammar point covers
Subordinating conjunctions in Spanish are words used to connect a main clause with a subordinate (dependent) clause. They help to express reasons, conditions, purposes, time, and more.
When to use it
Use these conjunctions in Spanish to join two clauses when one depends on the other. For example, to explain a reason (because), a condition (if), or a purpose (so that).
Key forms
- porque
- aunque
- si
- cuando
- para que
- mientras
- antes de que
- después de que
Examples
Te llamo cuando llegue a casa.
English: I will call you when I arrive home.
Si tienes tiempo, ven conmigo.
English: If you have time, come with me.
Estudio para que mis padres estén orgullosos.
English: I study so that my parents are proud.
Tips
- Some subordinating conjunctions require the use of the subjunctive mood, especially when expressing purpose or uncertainty.
- Pay attention to word order: the subordinate clause can come before or after the main clause.
- Do not confuse 'porque' (because) with 'por qué' (why).
Exceptions and edge cases
- Some conjunctions change meaning depending on whether the verb is in the indicative or subjunctive mood.