This page lists 5 conjunctions that start with D, running from “Directly” to “During the time that.” Most of them are multi-word phrases that connect two ideas, such as a cause, a contrast, a condition, or a stretch of time. You can use them to understand how writers link clauses, to choose a clearer way to phrase a sentence, or to check the meaning of a phrase you have seen.

Conjunctions are words or phrases that join clauses, ideas, or sentences so they flow together. Some of the wordier ones, like “due to the fact that,” are often trimmed by editors, and many style guides suggest swapping them for a single word such as “because.”

Below you’ll find the table with the conjunction, its definition, an example usage, and a short description.

Conjunction: The word or phrase itself, listed alphabetically so you can quickly find the connector you are looking for.

Definition: A plain-language explanation of what the conjunction means and how it links ideas, so you know exactly when to use it.

Example usage: A full sentence showing the conjunction in action, which helps you see how it fits into real writing.

Description: Extra notes on tone, how common the phrase is, and simpler alternatives, so you can decide if it suits your writing.

Conjunctions

ConjunctionDefinitionExample usage
DirectlyA subordinating conjunction meaning “as soon as”; used mainly in British English.Directly she arrived, the meeting began.
Depending on whetherA conjunctive phrase that makes one thing conditional on a choice or outcome between alternatives.The price changes depending on whether you book early or late.
Despite the fact thatA subordinating conjunction phrase that introduces a contrast; it means “although” or “even though”.Despite the fact that it rained, the festival went ahead.
Due to the fact thatA subordinating conjunction phrase that introduces a reason; it means “because”.The game was delayed due to the fact that the field was flooded.
During the time thatA subordinating conjunction phrase meaning “while” or “at the same time as”.During the time that she was abroad, her sister ran the shop.

Descriptions

Directly
An informal, mostly British use of the word “directly” to link two events that happen back to back. It is less common in everyday speech today and sounds somewhat old-fashioned.
Depending on whether
A multi-word connector that introduces a condition with two possible outcomes. It is common in instructions, policies, and explanations where the result varies.
Despite the fact that
A wordy but widely used way to set up a surprising contrast between two clauses. Many writers swap it for “although” to keep sentences shorter.
Due to the fact that
A phrase used to give the cause of something. Style guides often suggest replacing it with the simpler “because” to avoid padding.
During the time that
A long-form connector that links two actions happening over the same period. In most writing, “while” does the same job in fewer words.
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