Subordinating conjunctions are words that connect a dependent clause to an independent clause, indicating a relationship between the two. Common examples include "although," "because," "since," "unless," "while," and "if." These conjunctions help clarify the meaning of the sentence by showing reasons, conditions, or contrasts. For instance, in the sentence "I will go to the party if I finish my work," "if" is the subordinating conjunction that introduces the condition.