Clauses
A clause is a group of words that contains a subject and a verb. It can express a complete or an incomplete thought.
1. Types of Clauses
1.1 Independent Clause
An independent clause can stand alone as a complete sentence.
Example: She sings well.
1.2 Dependent Clause (Subordinate Clause)
A dependent clause cannot stand alone. It depends on an independent clause to make complete sense.
Example: Because she was tired
2. Types of Dependent Clauses
2.1 Noun Clause
A noun clause functions as a noun in a sentence — as a subject, object, or complement.
Example: What you said surprised me.
2.2 Adjective Clause (Relative Clause)
An adjective clause describes a noun or pronoun. It usually begins with who, whom, whose, which, or that.
Example: The book that I borrowed was excellent.
2.3 Adverb Clause
An adverb clause modifies a verb, adjective, or another adverb. It begins with subordinating conjunctions like because, although, if, when, etc.
Example: I stayed home because it was raining.
3. Differences at a Glance
| Clause Type | Can Stand Alone? | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Independent Clause | Yes | He is laughing. |
| Dependent Clause | No | Although he is tired |
4. Combining Clauses
Clauses can be combined to form complex and compound sentences:
- Compound sentence: Two independent clauses joined by coordinating conjunctions (and, but, or).
- Complex sentence: An independent clause + one or more dependent clauses.
Examples:
- He studied hard, and he passed the exam. (Compound)
- Because he studied hard, he passed the exam. (Complex)
5. Clause Identification Practice
Identify the type of clause in each sentence:
- What you decide is important. → Noun Clause
- The man who called you is my friend. → Adjective Clause
- I'll call you when I arrive. → Adverb Clause