English Dependent Clauses

 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 form a complete thought.

Key Features:

• It often begins with a subordinating conjunction (e.g., because, although, when, if, unless, since, while, before, after, as, so that).
• It can also start with a relative pronoun (who, whom, whose, which, that).

Types of Dependent Clauses:

1. Adverbial Clauses: Modify a verb, adjective, or adverb, answering questions like when, where, how, why, or to what extent.

   • Example: I'll call you after I finish my work.

2. Adjective Clauses: Modify a noun or pronoun, providing more information about it.

   • Example: The book that you recommended was excellent.

3. Noun Clauses: Function as a noun within a sentence, acting as subjects, objects, or complements.

   • Example: What you said surprised me.*

Identifying Dependent Clauses:

• They often start with subordinating conjunctions or relative pronouns.
• They cannot stand alone as complete sentences.

Examples:

• I'll stay home if it rains. (Adverbial clause)
• The house that we bought needs some repairs. (Adjective clause)
• I don't know who sent the flowers.* (Noun clause)

Common Subordinating Conjunctions:

• because, although, when, if, unless, since, while, before, after, as, so that, even though, even if, as if, as though, in order that

Remember: Independent clauses can stand alone as complete sentences, while dependent clauses cannot. They need to be connected to an independent clause to make a full thought.