dependent clause
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- 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
- 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