A dependent clause can also do an adverb’s job. An adverb clause begins with a subordinating conjunction and tells when, why, under what condition or in spite of what.
| Tells | Conjunctions | Example |
|---|---|---|
| when | when, after, before, while, until, as | When the bell rang, we left. |
| why | because, since, so that | We stayed in because it rained. |
| under what condition | if, unless | If the rain stops, we will play. |
| in spite of what | although, though, even though | Although she was tired, Mia finished. |
Key idea
An adverb clause can come before or after the main clause. When it comes first, a comma usually follows it. When it comes last, usually no comma.
Why it works
Adverb clauses show how events connect: time, cause, condition, contrast. Moving the clause to the front puts that connection first (“Because the bridge was closed, we took the long way”), and the comma marks where the main clause begins.
Worked example: Front or back
Punctuate both: “If you hurry you can catch the bus” and “You can catch the bus if you hurry.”
- In the first, the adverb clause If you hurry comes first: a comma follows it.
- In the second, it comes last: no comma is needed.
Answer: “If you hurry, you can catch the bus.” / “You can catch the bus if you hurry.”
Common mistake
Thinking the dependent clause has to come second. It can come first; then a comma usually follows it. (With a short clause and no chance of misreading, some writers leave the comma out; the comma is never wrong there.)