Subordinating Conjunction of Time

Learn how to use the subordinating conjunction of time in English.
Sound Grammar

Subordinating Conjunction of Time

Watch four conversations using this grammar point on elllo.org.

Can you answer these grammar questions correctly?

Subordinating Conjunctions of Time

Point 1: Subordinating conjunctions of time show how clauses relate according to time.
  1. The meeting started before we got there.
  2. He left by the time we arrived.
  3. Call me when you get home.
  4. I will call you after I finish.
Point 2: Before and by the time show that one action happens earlier than another.
  1. I wake up before the sun rises.
  2. She does yoga before she goes to work.
  3. My boss is in the office by the time I get there.
  4. I should be there by the time you arrive.
Point 3: When, as soon as, once, and until happen at or around the same time as another action.
  1. I feel sad when it rains.
  2. She calls me as soon as she gets home.
  3. Flip the pancake once it starts to bubble.
  4. Please stay here until I call you.
Point 4: After shows that one action happens later. As soon as, right after, and just after can have the same meaning.
  1. I called her after I got home.
  2. I saw him as soon as the meeting ended.
  3. I saw him right after the meeting ended.
  4. I saw him just after the meeting ended.