An adverb clause modifies a verb. It contains a subject and a verb. As a dependent clause, it cannot stand alone and must connect to an independent or main clause to form a complete sentence. An adverb clause may come before or after the independent clause. When an adverb clause precedes an independent clause, a comma is used to separate the clauses. When the adverb comes after the independent clause, no comma is used.

KIND OF ADVERBIAL CLAUSES

• Clauses of Time – These clauses are used to show when something happens.

Conjunctions used: after, as, as long as, before, since, until, while, when, whenever, as soon as, and so long as.

EXAMPLE: You must clear up this mess before they arrive.
EXAMPLE: When she heard the news, she started to cry.

• Clauses of Condition – These clauses are used to talk about a possible situation.

Conjunctions used: if, unless, only if, even if, in case, and in the event that.

EXAMPLE: If he wasn't such a heavy smoker, he would be alive today.
EXAMPLE: I am going to take away your television unless you pay me back the money.

• Clauses of Reason – These clauses are used to show why something happens.

Conjunctions used: because, as, since and now that.

EXAMPLE: As we're both tired, we agreed to stop playing.
EXAMPLE: She is very angry because of what you said.

• Clauses of Manner – These clauses are used to show the way something is done.

Conjunctions used: as, and like.

EXAMPLE: As I already mentioned, none of you is going to go with me.
EXAMPLE: Don't treat me like you treat a slave.

• Clauses of Purpose – These clauses are used to show the purpose for doing something.

Conjunctions used: so that, and in order that.

EXAMPLE: I hold my pet cat up so that everyone can see it.
EXAMPLE: We locked the gate in order that no uninvited persons could come in.

• Clauses of Contrast – These clauses are used to show direct contrast, 'this thing' is exactly the opposite of 'that thing'.

Conjunctions used: while and whereas.

EXAMPLE: Jack is short, while Jill is tall.
EXAMPLE: His brother is rich, whereas he is poor.

• Clauses of Place – These clauses are used to show where something is or happens.

Conjunctions used: where, wherever, anywhere and everywhere.

EXAMPLE: Why do you follow me wherever I go?
EXAMPLE: She is taking me to the farm where I can see lots of scorpions.