Dependent Clause

Definition

A dependent clause is a group of words that contains a subject and a verb but cannot stand alone as a complete sentence. It relies on an independent clause to provide context and meaning, often introduced by subordinating conjunctions like 'because,' 'although,' or 'when.' Understanding how dependent clauses interact with independent clauses is essential for mastering coordination and subordination in sentence structure, as well as for the proper use of punctuation like commas, semicolons, and colons.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Dependent clauses always start with subordinating conjunctions or relative pronouns, indicating that they cannot stand alone.
2. When using dependent clauses in writing, commas are often necessary to separate them from independent clauses, especially if the dependent clause comes first.
3. They add depth and detail to sentences by providing additional information, allowing for more complex thoughts to be expressed.
4. Understanding dependent clauses helps in recognizing the difference between simple, compound, and complex sentences, enhancing overall writing skills.
5. In academic writing, using dependent clauses effectively can improve clarity and coherence by connecting ideas logically.

Review Questions

• How do dependent clauses enhance the complexity of sentences in writing?
  • Dependent clauses enhance the complexity of sentences by adding extra information and detail that cannot be conveyed through independent clauses alone. They allow writers to express more nuanced ideas and relationships between thoughts. By incorporating dependent clauses into their writing, authors can create complex sentences that better reflect the intricacies of their arguments or narratives.
• What is the role of subordinating conjunctions in connecting dependent clauses to independent clauses?
  • Subordinating conjunctions play a crucial role in linking dependent clauses to independent clauses by establishing the relationship between them. These conjunctions signal that the information in the dependent clause is subordinate to the main idea presented in the independent clause. This connection helps clarify meaning and structure within sentences, guiding readers through the writer's intended message.
• Evaluate the impact of punctuation on the clarity of sentences that contain dependent clauses.
  • Punctuation significantly impacts the clarity of sentences containing dependent clauses because it helps indicate the structure and relationships between ideas. For instance, when a dependent clause precedes an independent clause, using a comma can clearly separate them and enhance readability. Conversely, omitting necessary punctuation can lead to confusion or misinterpretation of the intended meaning. Properly punctuating sentences with dependent clauses ensures that readers can easily follow the flow of thought.

Related terms

Independent Clause: An independent clause is a complete thought that can stand alone as a sentence, containing a subject and a verb.

Subordinating Conjunction: A subordinating conjunction is a word that connects a dependent clause to an independent clause, establishing a relationship between them.

Complex Sentence: A complex sentence is made up of one independent clause and at least one dependent clause, creating more nuanced sentences.