Dependent Clause: Definition and Examples

A set of words known as a dependent clause is characterised by the presence of a subject and a verb, but it does not convey an entire notion. A dependent clause cannot be a sentence. Often a dependent sentence is signalled with a dependent marker word.

A dependent clause is a type of clause used in English grammar. It is distinguished from an independent clause by the fact that it does not have the ability to function as a complete sentence on its own. It is a clause that gives the impression that there will be further discussion later on and that the discussion is not over. It is also referred to as a subordinate clause in some circles.

• Independent clauses can stand on their own, while dependent clauses can only make sense when connected to another independent clause.
• In sentences, dependent clauses can function as adverbs, adjectives, or nouns, depending on the context.
• Even though dependent clauses are useful for incorporating additional information into a sentence, it is not necessary to include them in order to have a full notion.

Different Variations of a Dependent Clause

It’s possible for dependent clauses to function as adverbs, adjectives, or even nouns.

The clause describing the adjectives. An example of a dependent clause functioning in the role of an adjective is as follows:

• Whom we met after the movie.

(It is a sentence of the adjective form.)

The clause that modifies verbs. One example of a dependent clause functioning as an adverb is presented here:

• If you can work on Sundays.

(The verb “can work” is modified in this sentence by the dependent phrase “on Sundays.” (This is an example of an adverbial clause.))

The Clause with Nouns The following is an illustration of a dependent clause functioning in the role of a noun:

• Whatever makes you happy.

(The topic of this sentence is the dependent clause on whatever makes you happy.) (This is a phrase that uses a noun.)

The similarity between a Dependent Clause and an Independent Clause

It is typical for a dependent clause to be included in a complicated phrase when it is being utilised in the role of an adjective or adverb (i.e., a sentence with an independent clause and at least one dependent clause). It is common practise to utilise a subordinating conjunction or a relative pronoun as the connecting element between a dependent sentence and an independent phrase. Take, for instance:

• He literally stitched mail sacks until his fingers bled.
• The car which your wife sold me last week has broken down.

Conclusion

Every sentence contains at least one clause in its construction. While some clauses are autonomous, some are reliant on other ones.

A set of words that includes a subject and a verb or verb phrase can be referred to as a clause. In contrast to a dependent clause, which is also known as a subordinate clause, an independent clause is capable of expressing a whole notion on its own. To put it another way, a dependent clause cannot function properly as a standalone sentence. To make a complete sentence out of it, one or more independent clauses need to be connected with it. Within the context of a phrase, dependent clauses can take on the roles of either noun clauses, adjective clauses, or adverb clauses.

Words like “after,” “although,” “because,” “before,” “if,” “since,” “that,” “until,” “what,” “when,” “where,” “who,” and “which” are common examples of dependent clause starters.