Clauses

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What is a dependent clause?

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A dependent clause is a group of words that contains a subject and a verb but does not express a complete thought. It cannot stand alone as a sentence.

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What is an independent clause?

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An independent clause is a group of words that contains a subject and a verb and expresses a complete thought. It can stand alone as a sentence.

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What is the function of a dependent clause in a sentence?

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A dependent clause provides additional information to the independent clause and cannot stand alone.

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How can you identify a dependent clause in a sentence?

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A dependent clause often begins with a subordinating conjunction (e.g., because, although, since) or a relative pronoun (e.g., who, which).

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What is a subordinating conjunction?

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A subordinating conjunction is a word that connects a dependent clause to an independent clause, indicating a relationship between the two.

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Give an example of a sentence with a dependent clause.

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"Although it was raining, we went for a walk." (The dependent clause is 'Although it was raining.')

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Give an example of a sentence with an independent clause.

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"She enjoys reading books." (This is a complete thought and can stand alone.)

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What is the difference between a dependent clause and an independent clause?

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A dependent clause cannot stand alone and does not express a complete thought, while an independent clause can stand alone and expresses a complete thought.

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What role does an independent clause play in a complex sentence?

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In a complex sentence, the independent clause expresses the main idea, while the dependent clause provides additional information.

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What is a relative pronoun?

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A relative pronoun is a pronoun that introduces a dependent clause and relates it to a noun or pronoun in the main clause (e.g., who, whom, whose, which, that).