Understanding dependent clauses is crucial for mastering complex sentence structures in English. These clauses, unlike independent clauses, cannot stand alone as complete sentences.
They add depth and nuance to your writing, allowing you to express complex relationships between ideas. This article provides a comprehensive guide to dependent clauses, covering their definition, types, usage rules, common mistakes, and advanced topics.
Whether you’re a student learning grammar basics or an advanced learner seeking to refine your writing skills, this guide will equip you with the knowledge and practice you need to confidently use dependent clauses.
Table of Contents
- Definition of a Dependent Clause
- Structural Breakdown of Dependent Clauses
- Types of Dependent Clauses
- Examples of Dependent Clauses
- Usage Rules for Dependent Clauses
- Common Mistakes with Dependent Clauses
- Practice Exercises
- Advanced Topics
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion
Definition of a Dependent Clause
A dependent clause, also known as a subordinate clause, is a group of words that contains a subject and a verb but does not express a complete thought. Consequently, it cannot stand alone as a sentence. It relies on an independent clause to form a complete sentence. Dependent clauses are essential for creating complex and nuanced sentences, allowing writers to express relationships between ideas, add detail, and provide context. They function as nouns, adjectives, or adverbs within the larger sentence structure.
Dependent clauses are typically introduced by a subordinating conjunction (e.g., because, although, if, when, since, that, which, who) or a relative pronoun (e.g., who, whom, which, that, whose). These words signal that the clause is dependent and connect it to the main clause. Understanding the function of these introductory words is key to identifying and using dependent clauses correctly.
The key characteristic of a dependent clause is its inability to stand alone. While it contains a subject and a verb, it lacks the complete thought necessary to function independently.
Instead, it is “dependent” on the main clause to provide the missing information and create a grammatically correct sentence. Removing the main clause leaves the dependent clause incomplete and often nonsensical.
Structural Breakdown of Dependent Clauses
The basic structure of a dependent clause includes a subordinating conjunction or relative pronoun, a subject, and a verb. The subordinating conjunction or relative pronoun introduces the clause and connects it to the main clause. The subject performs the action of the verb within the dependent clause. The verb expresses the action or state of being of the subject.
Here’s a breakdown of the components:
- Subordinating Conjunction/Relative Pronoun: This word signals the start of the dependent clause and its relationship to the main clause. Examples include because, if, when, that, which, who.
- Subject: The noun or pronoun that performs the action of the verb.
- Verb: The action or state of being performed by the subject.
Consider the following example: Because it was raining, we stayed inside.
- Subordinating Conjunction: Because
- Subject: it
- Verb: was raining
This dependent clause, because it was raining, cannot stand alone as a sentence. It needs the independent clause, we stayed inside, to complete its meaning.
The order of the dependent and independent clauses can vary. When the dependent clause comes before the independent clause, it is typically followed by a comma.
When the independent clause comes first, a comma is usually not needed. For example:
- Because it was raining, we stayed inside. (Dependent clause first, comma used)
- We stayed inside because it was raining. (Independent clause first, no comma needed)
Types of Dependent Clauses
Dependent clauses can be classified into three main types based on their function within the sentence: noun clauses, adjective clauses (also known as relative clauses), and adverb clauses. Each type serves a different grammatical purpose and contributes to the overall meaning of the sentence in a unique way.
Noun Clauses
A noun clause functions as a noun within a sentence. This means it can take the place of a subject, object, complement, or appositive. Noun clauses are often introduced by words like that, what, who, whom, whoever, whomever, which, whichever, when, where, why, how, whether, and if. They provide information that acts as a noun in the sentence’s structure.
For instance, in the sentence “I don’t know what he wants,” the noun clause “what he wants” acts as the object of the verb “know.” Just like a noun, it receives the action of the verb.
Here are some common functions of noun clauses:
- Subject: What she said surprised everyone.
- Object: I don’t understand why he left.
- Complement: The problem is that he is always late.
- Appositive: The rumor, that she is leaving, is not true.
Adjective Clauses (Relative Clauses)
An adjective clause, also known as a relative clause, modifies a noun or pronoun in the main clause. It provides additional information about the noun it modifies, similar to how an adjective functions. Adjective clauses are typically introduced by relative pronouns (who, whom, which, that, whose) or relative adverbs (when, where, why).
Consider the sentence “The book that I borrowed from the library is due tomorrow.” The adjective clause “that I borrowed from the library” modifies the noun “book,” providing additional information about which book is being referred to.
There are two types of adjective clauses: defining (restrictive) and non-defining (non-restrictive). Defining clauses are essential to the meaning of the sentence and cannot be removed without changing the sentence’s meaning. They are not set off by commas. Non-defining clauses provide additional, non-essential information and can be removed without affecting the sentence’s core meaning. They are set off by commas.
Examples:
- Defining: The man who stole the money was arrested. (Essential information; no commas)
- Non-defining: My brother, who lives in London, is a doctor. (Non-essential information; commas used)
Adverb Clauses
An adverb clause modifies a verb, adjective, or adverb in the main clause, functioning like an adverb. It provides information about time, place, reason, manner, condition, purpose, result, or degree. Adverb clauses are introduced by subordinating conjunctions such as because, although, if, when, since, while, where, as, as if, as long as, as soon as, before, after, until, though, so that, in order that.
In the sentence “I will go to the party if I finish my work,” the adverb clause “if I finish my work” modifies the verb “will go,” indicating the condition under which the action will occur.
Here are some common types of adverb clauses and their functions:
- Time: When the bell rings, we will leave.
- Place: You can sit wherever you like.
- Reason: Because it was raining, we stayed inside.
- Manner: He acted as if he were the boss.
- Condition: If it rains, we will cancel the picnic.
- Purpose: We study hard so that we can pass the exam.
- Result: It was so cold that the water froze.
- Degree: He is as tall as his father is.
Examples of Dependent Clauses
To further illustrate the different types of dependent clauses, here are extensive examples organized by category. These examples will help you understand how each type functions within a sentence and how to identify them correctly.
Noun Clause Examples
The following table provides examples of noun clauses functioning as subjects, objects, complements, and appositives. Each example demonstrates how the noun clause takes the place of a noun in the sentence’s structure.
| Function | Example |
|---|---|
| Subject | What he said made her cry. |
| Subject | How she did it remains a mystery. |
| Subject | That he would come was unexpected. |
| Subject | Whoever wins will receive a prize. |
| Subject | Whether it rains or shines, we will proceed. |
| Object | I don’t know what she wants. |
| Object | She explained why she was late. |
| Object | He asked where the library was. |
| Object | They discussed how to solve the problem. |
| Object | We wondered if he would accept the offer. |
| Complement | The problem is that he doesn’t listen. |
| Complement | My belief is that honesty is the best policy. |
| Complement | His concern was whether they would arrive on time. |
| Complement | The question is how we can improve the situation. |
| Complement | Her excuse was that she had missed the bus. |
| Appositive | The rumor, that he is resigning, is unfounded. |
| Appositive | The fact, that she won the award, surprised no one. |
| Appositive | The hope, that they will succeed, keeps us going. |
| Appositive | His idea, that we should start early, is a good one. |
| Appositive | The suggestion, that we take a break, was welcomed. |
| Indirect Object | Give whoever needs it a helping hand. |
| Object of Preposition | Pay attention to what the teacher says. |
| Object of Preposition | I am interested in how they achieved their success. |
| Object of Preposition | He is worried about whether he will pass the exam. |
| Object of Preposition | She is grateful for what you have done for her. |
Adjective Clause Examples
The following table provides examples of adjective clauses, both defining and non-defining, modifying nouns in the main clause. Note the use of commas with non-defining clauses.
| Type | Example |
|---|---|
| Defining | The book that I borrowed from the library is due tomorrow. |
| Defining | The man who stole the money was arrested. |
| Defining | The car which he bought last week is already broken. |
| Defining | The house where I grew up is now a museum. |
| Defining | The reason why he left is still unknown. |
| Defining | Anyone who wants to join is welcome. |
| Defining | The student whose essay won the prize is very talented. |
| Defining | The movie that we watched last night was amazing. |
| Defining | The song which is playing on the radio is my favorite. |
| Defining | The person who helped me was very kind. |
| Non-defining | My brother, who lives in London, is a doctor. |
| Non-defining | The Eiffel Tower, which is in Paris, is a famous landmark. |
| Non-defining | My car, which is very old, still runs well. |
| Non-defining | Shakespeare, who wrote many famous plays, is a literary genius. |
| Non-defining | My hometown, where I spent my childhood, is a peaceful place. |
| Non-defining | The painting, which was created by Van Gogh, is priceless. |
| Non-defining | The company, which is based in New York, is expanding rapidly. |
| Non-defining | The concert, which was held last night, was a great success. |
| Non-defining | The restaurant, where we had dinner, is highly recommended. |
| Non-defining | The project, which they completed on time, was well-executed. |
| Defining | The candidate whom the committee selected is highly qualified. |
| Defining | The book that she recommended was very interesting. |
| Defining | The laptop that I bought online is not working properly. |
| Defining | The city where I want to live is San Francisco. |
| Defining | The reason why I am here is to help you. |
Adverb Clause Examples
The following table provides examples of adverb clauses modifying verbs, adjectives, or adverbs, indicating time, place, reason, manner, condition, purpose, result, and degree.
| Type | Example |
|---|---|
| Time | When the bell rings, we will leave. |
| Time | I will call you after I finish work. |
| Time | Before you go, please close the door. |
| Time | He arrived while we were eating. |
| Time | As soon as I get home, I will unpack. |
| Place | You can sit wherever you like. |
| Place | I will follow you wherever you go. |
| Place | They built the house where the old tree used to stand. |
| Place | She left the keys where I could find them. |
| Place | He hid the treasure where no one would look. |
| Reason | Because it was raining, we stayed inside. |
| Reason | Since you are here, you can help me. |
| Reason | As he was tired, he went to bed early. |
| Reason | I am happy because you are here. |
| Reason | She cried because she was sad. |
| Manner | He acted as if he were the boss. |
| Manner | She sings as beautifully as an angel. |
| Manner | They behaved as though nothing had happened. |
| Manner | He explained the problem as clearly as he could. |
| Manner | She dressed as elegantly as a queen. |
| Condition | If it rains, we will cancel the picnic. |
| Condition | You can borrow my car if you promise to be careful. |
| Condition | Unless you hurry, you will be late. |
| Condition | Provided that you study hard, you will pass the exam. |
| Condition | In case of fire, break the glass. |
| Purpose | We study hard so that we can pass the exam. |
| Purpose | He works overtime in order to earn more money. |
| Purpose | She exercises regularly so that she can stay healthy. |
| Purpose | They saved money so that they could buy a house. |
| Purpose | He whispered so that no one would hear. |
| Result | It was so cold that the water froze. |
| Result | He was so tired that he fell asleep immediately. |
| Result | She was so happy that she started to cry. |
| Result | The music was so loud that we couldn’t hear each other. |
| Result | The food was so delicious that we ate everything. |
| Degree | He is as tall as his father is. |
| Degree | She is as smart as her brother is. |
| Degree | The movie was as interesting as the book was. |
| Degree | The weather is as hot as it was yesterday. |
| Degree | The task is as difficult as I expected it to be. |
Usage Rules for Dependent Clauses
Several rules govern the proper use of dependent clauses. These rules pertain to punctuation, verb tense agreement, and the choice of subordinating conjunctions and relative pronouns.
Punctuation: When a dependent clause precedes the independent clause, a comma is typically used to separate the two clauses. However, when the independent clause comes first, a comma is generally not needed. For example:
- If it rains, we will stay inside. (Dependent clause first, comma used)
- We will stay inside if it rains. (Independent clause first, no comma needed)
Non-defining adjective clauses are always set off by commas, regardless of their position in the sentence. Defining adjective clauses are never set off by commas.
Verb Tense Agreement: The verb tense in the dependent clause should be consistent with the verb tense in the independent clause. This ensures clarity and logical flow in the sentence. For example:
- Correct: I will call you after I finish work. (Future tense in both clauses)
- Incorrect: I will call you after I finished work. (Inconsistent tenses)
Subordinating Conjunctions and Relative Pronouns: Choosing the correct subordinating conjunction or relative pronoun is crucial for conveying the intended meaning. Each word has a specific function and should be used appropriately. For example:
- Because indicates reason: Because it was raining, we stayed inside.
- If indicates condition: If you study hard, you will pass the exam.
- Who refers to people: The man who stole the money was arrested.
- Which refers to things: The book which I borrowed is due tomorrow.
Ellipsis: In certain cases, words can be omitted from a dependent clause if the meaning is clear from the context. This is known as ellipsis. For example:
- While (I was) walking, I saw a friend.
- If (it is) necessary, I will help.
Common Mistakes with Dependent Clauses
Several common mistakes can occur when using dependent clauses. Recognizing these errors and understanding how to correct them is essential for improving your writing skills.
Fragment Sentences: One of the most common mistakes is using a dependent clause as a complete sentence. Remember that a dependent clause cannot stand alone and must be connected to an independent clause.
- Incorrect: Because it was raining.
- Correct: Because it was raining, we stayed inside.
Incorrect Punctuation: Failing to use commas correctly with dependent clauses is another common error. Remember to use a comma when the dependent clause comes before the independent clause and to set off non-defining adjective clauses with commas.
- Incorrect: If it rains we will stay inside.
- Correct: If it rains, we will stay inside.
- Incorrect: My brother who lives in London is a doctor.
- Correct: My brother, who lives in London, is a doctor.
Misusing Subordinating Conjunctions and Relative Pronouns: Using the wrong word to introduce a dependent clause can change the meaning of the sentence or make it grammatically incorrect.
- Incorrect: Because I study hard, I will pass the exam. (Incorrect use of “because” to indicate a condition)
- Correct: If I study hard, I will pass the exam.
- Incorrect: The book who I borrowed is due tomorrow. (Incorrect use of “who” to refer to a thing)
- Correct: The book that I borrowed is due tomorrow.
Subject-Verb Agreement Errors: Ensure that the verb in the dependent clause agrees with its subject in number and person.
- Incorrect: What she say is not important.
- Correct: What she says is not important.
Tense disagreement: Maintaining consistent tense throughout the sentence is crucial. Avoid shifting tenses without a clear reason.
- Incorrect: I will call you after I finished my work.
- Correct: I will call you after I finish my work.
Practice Exercises
Test your understanding of dependent clauses with the following exercises. Identify the dependent clauses in each sentence and indicate their type (noun, adjective, or adverb).
In some cases, you may also need to correct errors in punctuation or word choice.
Exercise 1: Identifying Dependent Clauses
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| 1. Because it was late, we decided to go home. | Dependent Clause: Because it was late; Type: Adverb |
| 2. The book that I read was very interesting. | Dependent Clause: that I read; Type: Adjective |
| 3. I don’t know what he wants. | Dependent Clause: what he wants; Type: Noun |
| 4. If you study hard, you will succeed. | Dependent Clause: If you study hard; Type: Adverb |
| 5. The house where I grew up is still standing. | Dependent Clause: where I grew up; Type: Adjective |
| 6. What she said surprised everyone. | Dependent Clause: What she said; Type: Noun |
| 7. Although he was tired, he kept working. | Dependent Clause: Although he was tired; Type: Adverb |
| 8. The car, which is very old, still runs well. | Dependent Clause: which is very old; Type: Adjective |
| 9. I am happy because you are here. | Dependent Clause: because you are here; Type: Adverb |
| 10. He asked where the library was located. | Dependent Clause: where the library was located; Type: Noun |
Exercise 2: Correcting Errors in Dependent Clauses
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| 1. Because it was raining. We stayed inside. | Corrected: Because it was raining, we stayed inside. |
| 2. If it rains we will cancel the picnic. | Corrected: If it rains, we will cancel the picnic. |
| 3. The book who I borrowed is due tomorrow. | Corrected: The book that I borrowed is due tomorrow. |
| 4. I will call you after I finished my work. | Corrected: I will call you after I finish my work. |
| 5. My brother who lives in London is a doctor. | Corrected: My brother, who lives in London, is a doctor. |
| 6. What she say is not important. | Corrected: What she says is not important. |
| 7. Although he was tired but he kept working. | Corrected: Although he was tired, he kept working. |
| 8. The reason why he left is because he was unhappy. | Corrected: The reason he left is that he was unhappy. |
| 9. I don’t know that he wants. | Corrected: I don’t know what he wants. |
| 10. If you would have studied, you would have passed. | Corrected: If you had studied, you would have passed. |
Advanced Topics
For advanced learners, there are several more complex aspects of dependent clauses to explore. These include reduced clauses, embedded clauses, and the nuances of using different subordinating conjunctions and relative pronouns.
Reduced Clauses: A reduced clause is a dependent clause that has been shortened by omitting the relative pronoun or subordinating conjunction and sometimes the auxiliary verb. This is often done to make the sentence more concise and fluent. For example:
- Original: The book that was written by Hemingway is a classic.
- Reduced: The book written by Hemingway is a classic.
Embedded Clauses: An embedded clause is a dependent clause that is nested within another dependent clause. This can create complex and layered sentence structures. For example:
I know that what she said about why he left is not true. (The noun clause “what she said about why he left” contains the adverb clause “why he left.”)
Nuances of Subordinating Conjunctions and Relative Pronouns: Certain subordinating conjunctions and relative pronouns have subtle differences in meaning and usage. Understanding these nuances can help you choose the most appropriate word for your intended meaning. For example:
While can indicate time or contrast: While I was walking, I saw a friend. (Time) While I like coffee, I prefer tea. (Contrast)
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about dependent clauses:
- What is the difference between a dependent clause and an independent clause?
An independent clause can stand alone as a complete sentence because it expresses a complete thought, while a dependent clause cannot because it does not express a complete thought. A dependent clause relies on an independent clause to form a grammatically correct sentence.
- How can I identify a dependent clause in a sentence?
Look for a group of words that contains a subject and a verb but is introduced by a subordinating conjunction (e.g., because, if, when) or a relative pronoun (e.g., who, which, that). If the clause cannot stand alone as a sentence, it is likely a dependent clause.
- Do I always need to use a comma when a dependent clause comes before an independent clause?
Yes, a comma is generally needed when a dependent clause comes before an independent clause. However, there are some exceptions, such as when the dependent clause is very short and closely related to the independent clause.
- What is the difference between a defining and non-defining adjective clause?
A defining (restrictive) adjective clause is essential to the meaning of the sentence and cannot be removed without changing the sentence’s meaning. It is not set off by commas. A non-defining (non-restrictive) adjective clause provides additional, non-essential information and can be removed without affecting the sentence’s core meaning. It is set off by commas.
- Can a dependent clause come in the middle of an independent clause?
Yes, particularly adjective clauses. For example: “The book, which I found at the library, was overdue.”
- What are some common subordinating conjunctions?
Common subordinating conjunctions include because, if, when, since, although, while, where, as, before, after, until, though, so that, in order that.
- What are some common relative pronouns?
Common relative pronouns include who, whom, which, that, whose.
- Why is it important to understand dependent clauses?
Understanding dependent clauses is crucial for constructing complex and nuanced sentences, expressing relationships between ideas, and improving your overall writing skills. It allows you to add depth and detail to your writing, making it more engaging and informative.
- How can I improve my use of dependent clauses?
Practice identifying and using dependent clauses in your writing. Pay attention to punctuation, verb tense agreement, and the choice of subordinating conjunctions and relative pronouns. Review examples of different types of dependent clauses and practice correcting common mistakes.
- Can a noun clause be the subject of another clause?
Yes, noun clauses can function as subjects, objects, complements, or appositives within other clauses, including other noun clauses. This can create complex sentence structures where clauses are nested within each other.
Conclusion
Dependent clauses are fundamental components of English sentence structure, enabling writers to craft complex and nuanced expressions. By understanding their definition, structural breakdown, and various types—noun, adjective, and adverb—you can significantly enhance your writing skills.
Mastering the usage rules, avoiding common mistakes, and exploring advanced topics will further refine your ability to communicate effectively and precisely. Whether you are a student, a professional, or simply someone who enjoys writing, a solid grasp of dependent clauses is an invaluable asset.
Keep practicing, experimenting with different sentence structures, and observing how skilled writers use dependent clauses to achieve their desired effects. With dedication and attention to detail, you can confidently incorporate dependent clauses into your writing and elevate your communication to a higher level.