A dependent clause is a group of words that contains a subject and a verb but cannot stand alone as a complete sentence because it does not express a complete thought. Dependent clauses often begin with subordinating conjunctions like 'although,' 'because,' or 'when,' and they rely on independent clauses to provide meaning.
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Dependent clauses can function as adjectives, adverbs, or nouns within sentences, adding detail and context to the main idea.
When combining clauses, punctuation rules dictate that a dependent clause can precede or follow an independent clause, affecting the overall structure of the sentence.
It’s important to recognize dependent clauses to avoid sentence fragments, which occur when a dependent clause is mistakenly used as a standalone sentence.
Understanding how dependent clauses work helps improve clarity in writing by ensuring that ideas are fully developed and connected.
In complex sentences, dependent clauses often convey additional information that enhances the reader's understanding of the main action or subject.
Review Questions
How do dependent clauses function within a sentence, and what roles do they play?
Dependent clauses can function in various ways within a sentence: as adjectives modifying nouns, adverbs providing context for verbs, or nouns acting as subjects or objects. For example, in the sentence 'Although it was raining, we went for a walk,' the dependent clause 'Although it was raining' sets up a condition that enhances our understanding of why going for a walk might be surprising. Recognizing these functions helps to create more complex and nuanced sentences.
What are some common mistakes writers make regarding dependent clauses and how can they be avoided?
A common mistake is using a dependent clause as if it were an independent clause, leading to sentence fragments. For instance, saying 'When I arrived' leaves the thought incomplete. Writers can avoid this by ensuring that every dependent clause is paired with an independent clause to form a complete sentence. Understanding the connection between these clauses helps maintain clarity and coherence in writing.
Evaluate the importance of using dependent clauses for enhancing concision and clarity in writing.
Using dependent clauses effectively allows writers to condense information while providing necessary context. For example, instead of writing two separate sentences, 'I was tired. I went to bed early,' one could say, 'Because I was tired, I went to bed early.' This not only makes writing more concise but also improves clarity by showing the relationship between ideas. Mastering this technique leads to more sophisticated and fluid writing styles.
Related terms
independent clause: An independent clause is a group of words that contains a subject and a verb and expresses a complete thought, allowing it to stand alone as a sentence.
A subordinating conjunction is a word that connects a dependent clause to an independent clause, indicating the relationship between the two, such as time, cause, or condition.