When is a conjunction considered a subordinating conjunction?

Answer 1

A subordinating conjunction joins a dependent idea or clause to a main clause.

COMMON SUBORDINATING CONJUNCTIONS:

after before until

although considering (that) when

as if whenever

as far as in order that whereas

as if since wherever

as long as so that while

as soon as than

as though though

because unless

example: A ship has water below whereas a shipwreck has water below.

Answer 2

A conjunction is considered a subordinating conjunction when it connects two clauses in a sentence and sets up a relationship where one clause (the subordinate or dependent clause) depends on the other (the main or independent clause) for its meaning. Subordinating conjunctions typically show a relationship of time, cause and effect, contrast, or condition between the two clauses.