Dictionary term
Sub-workflow (n8n)
Also called sub-workflow
Automation PlatformsIntermediate
In n8n, a sub-workflow is a separate workflow that another workflow calls through the Execute Sub-workflow node. The sub-workflow starts with an Execute Sub-workflow Trigger and returns its last node's output to the caller, which makes logic modular and reusable.
In plain English
A sub-workflow is a smaller n8n workflow that other workflows can call, so you build a common job once and reuse it.
Analogy
Like a function you call from many places instead of copying the same code.
Why it matters
Sub-workflows keep complex automations modular and reusable, reducing duplication across builds.
In practice
A reusable 'send Slack alert' sub-workflow called by several parent workflows.
Related terms
Sources
Browse all terms →Last verified