Clause

What is a Clause?

Simply put, a clause is a group of words that contains a subject and a verb (predicate). Clauses are the building blocks of sentences and convey a complete thought or idea. They can be used to express statements, questions, commands, or other types of communication.

There are two main types of clauses: independent clauses and subordinate clauses.

Independent Clause:

An independent clause, also known as a main clause, is a group of words that can stand alone as a complete sentence. It contains a subject and a predicate and expresses a complete thought. Independent clauses can function independently and do not rely on other clauses to convey their meaning.

Examples of independent clauses:

• She went to the store.
• They enjoyed the movie.
• He studied for the exam.

Subordinate Clause:

A subordinate clause, also known as a dependent clause, is a group of words that cannot stand alone as a complete sentence. It depends on an independent clause to complete its meaning. Subordinate clauses usually begin with subordinating conjunctions (e.g., because, although, when, while, if) or relative pronouns (e.g., who, which, that) and provide additional information to the main clause.

Examples of subordinate clauses:

•  Because it was raining, they decided to stay indoors. (introduced by the subordinating conjunction “because”)
•  She read the book that her friend recommended. (introduced by the relative pronoun “that”)
•  After we finish dinner, we can go for a walk. (introduced by the subordinating conjunction “after”)

Subordinate clauses are “subordinate” because they rely on the main (independent) clause to give them context and complete meaning. They add complexity to sentences by providing additional details, conditions, reasons, or other related information.

Example:

She went to the store because she needed some groceries.

The independent clause is “She went to the store,” and the subordinate clause is “because she needed some groceries.” The independent clause can stand alone as a complete thought, while the subordinate clause provides the reason for the action in the independent clause.

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