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, which makes it essential for creating complex sentence structures that enhance variety in writing.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Dependent clauses often begin with subordinating conjunctions like 'because', 'although', or 'when', which signal their incomplete thought.
2. They can function as adjectives, adverbs, or nouns within a sentence, adding depth and detail to the main idea.
3. Using dependent clauses helps vary sentence structure, making writing more engaging and less monotonous.
4. When combined with independent clauses, dependent clauses create complex sentences that improve clarity and coherence in writing.
5. It's important to ensure that a dependent clause is paired with an independent clause; otherwise, it results in a sentence fragment.

Review Questions

• How do dependent clauses enhance sentence structure and variety in writing?
  • Dependent clauses enhance sentence structure and variety by allowing writers to combine ideas in more complex ways. They add details and context to independent clauses, which helps create richer narratives or explanations. By using dependent clauses, writers can avoid repetitive sentence patterns and keep their writing interesting.
• Explain the role of subordinating conjunctions in forming dependent clauses and their connection to independent clauses.
  • Subordinating conjunctions play a crucial role in forming dependent clauses by linking them to independent clauses. These conjunctions indicate the relationship between the ideas expressed in the two types of clauses. For example, in the sentence 'Although it was raining, we went for a walk,' 'although' introduces the dependent clause, showing that the action of going for a walk is connected to the condition of it raining.
• Evaluate how the misuse of dependent clauses can lead to sentence fragments and affect overall clarity in writing.
  • The misuse of dependent clauses can lead to sentence fragments when they are not paired with independent clauses. This fragmenting disrupts the flow of writing and can confuse readers since incomplete thoughts lack clarity. Writers should ensure every dependent clause has a corresponding independent clause to maintain coherence and effectiveness in communication, as fragments can undermine the reader's understanding.

Related terms

independent clause: A group of words that contains a subject and a verb and can stand alone as a complete sentence.

subordinating conjunction: A word or phrase that connects a dependent clause to an independent clause, showing the relationship between them.

complex sentence:

A sentence that contains at least one independent clause and one dependent clause, allowing for more nuanced expression of ideas.