Definition

1. Noun:
   • A clause in a complex sentence that cannot stand alone as a complete sentence: A dependent clause is a group of words containing a subject and a verb but expressing an incomplete thought. It functions as a part of a larger sentence, typically introduced by a subordinating conjunction or a relative pronoun.
   • A clause that functions within a sentence as a noun, adjective, or adverb: Dependent clauses serve specific grammatical roles, modifying other parts of the sentence or acting as a noun phrase.

Usage

• A dependent clause must be connected to an independent clause to form a complete sentence.
• It is often introduced by words like , , , , , , , or .
• Punctuation (commas) is often used to separate a dependent clause from the main clause, especially when it begins the sentence.

Examples

• Adverb clause (modifies a verb):
  • Because it was raining, we stayed indoors. (The dependent clause "Because it was raining" explains why we stayed.)
  • She will call you when she arrives.
• Adjective clause (modifies a noun):
  • The book that I borrowed is fascinating. (The clause "that I borrowed" describes "the book".)
  • The student who won the prize is my friend.
• Noun clause (acts as a noun):
  • What she said surprised everyone. (The clause "What she said" is the subject of the sentence.)
  • I know that he is honest.

Advanced Usage

• Elliptical dependent clause: A clause where some words are omitted but understood.
  • While [she was] walking to school, she saw a friend. (The subject and verb "she was" are implied.)
• Restrictive vs. Non-restrictive clauses: Adjective clauses can be essential (restrictive, no commas) or non-essential (non-restrictive, set off by commas) to the meaning of the noun they modify.
  • Restrictive: Cars that are unsafe should be banned. (Specifies which cars.)
  • Non-restrictive: My car, which is a hybrid, is very efficient. (Adds extra information.)

Variants and Related Words

• Subordinate clause: A synonym for dependent clause.
• Independent clause (main clause): A clause that can stand alone as a complete sentence.
• Relative clause: A type of dependent clause (adjective clause) introduced by a relative pronoun (, , ).
• Adverbial clause: A type of dependent clause that functions as an adverb.

Synonyms

• Subordinate clause
• Subclause

Related Phrases

• Dependent marker word: A word (like a subordinating conjunction) that signals the beginning of a dependent clause (e.g., , , , , , , , , , , ).
• Fragment (sentence fragment): An error that occurs when a dependent clause is incorrectly punctuated as a complete sentence.
  • Incorrect: When the sun sets. (This is a fragment.)
  • Correct: We go home when the sun sets.

Related Idioms/Concepts

• Hanging on a clause: While not a standard idiom, the concept illustrates how a dependent clause "hangs on" or depends on the main clause for its full meaning and grammatical completeness.

Noun

1. a clause in a complex sentence that cannot stand alone as a complete sentence and that functions within the sentence as a noun or adjective or adverb