Mastering the Difference: Dependent and Independent Clauses Explained
Dependent clauses are also known as subordinate clauses. A dependent clause is a clause that cannot stand on its own as a sentence because it provides incomplete information. It relies on an independent clause for meaning. On the other hand, an independent clause can stand alone as a sentence because it provides complete information.
Independent Clauses
Here are some independent clauses examples:
-Ms. Martin explained the binary number system. [one independent clause]
-In the binary system, each number is expressed in powers of two, and only the digits 0 and 1 are used. [two independent clauses joined by a comma and and]
-The binary system is a number system; however, it is not the only number system. [two independent clauses joined by a semicolon, a conjunctive adverb, and a comma]
-The binary number system is important to know because it is used by computers. [an independent clause combined with a subordinate clause]
Note
An independent clause used by itself is generally called a sentence. The term independent clause is generally used when such a clause is joined with at least one other clause (either independent or subordinate) to make a sentence.
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Dependent Clauses
Here are some different types of dependent clauses with examples:
1. Adverbial Clause:
- As I was walking to the shop, I saw a dog.
- Although I love ice cream, I cannot eat it.
- When she arrived at the airport, she realized she had forgotten her passport.
2. Adjectival Clause:
- The book that I read was really good.
- The boy who won the race was so happy.
- The dog that chased the cat got tired.
3. Noun Clause:
- I don't know what to do.
- He said that he was coming to the party.