What is a Dependent or Subordinate Clause?
A dependent or subordinate clause contains both a subject and a verb, begins with a subordinating conjunction, does not complete a thought, and cannot stand on its own as a complete sentence.
Examples of Dependent/Subordinate Clauses
Some dependent and subordinate clause examples would be the following:
after we finished the puzzle
although Kayla had already seen the movie
before I forget to tell you
unless she finishes her homework early
whenever Greg goes to the beach
Notice how each dependent clause above begins with a subordinating conjunction. This subordinating conjunction is a clue that tells you this could be the beginning of a dependent clause. If a subject and verb come after this subordinating conjunction and it does not complete a thought, then you have a dependent or subordinating clause.
Why You Should Use Dependent Clauses in Your Writing
Using dependent clauses in your writing can help you demonstrate cause and effect as well as provide more detail and context in your writing.
Cause and Effect: Dependent clauses can demonstrate how two things are related in your writing, particularly in a situation where cause and effect play a part.
Sasha gets up early every morning because she has swim practice at 6:00am.
Detail and Context: Dependent clauses can provide additional context as well as add detail to your writing.
After Jacobi scored the winning goal, he ran the length of the field in triumph.
Once you have a solid understanding of dependent clauses (as well as independent clauses), be sure to explore noun clauses, adjective clauses, adverb clauses, and elliptical clauses!
Download a Free Worksheet on Dependent/Subordinate Clauses!
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How well do your students understand dependent and subordinate clauses?
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