Subordinate clause

Definition

A subordinate clause is a group of words that contains a subject and a verb but cannot stand alone as a complete sentence. It depends on a main clause to provide context and meaning, which makes it crucial for adding complexity and variety to sentence structure.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Subordinate clauses begin with subordinating conjunctions like 'if', 'because', or 'although', signaling that they are dependent on the main clause for meaning.
2. These clauses can serve different functions in sentences, such as acting as adjectives, adverbs, or nouns, enhancing the richness of the sentence structure.
3. When used effectively, subordinate clauses help vary sentence length and complexity, making writing more engaging and sophisticated.
4. Unlike independent clauses, subordinate clauses cannot form complete thoughts on their own; they need to be paired with an independent clause.
5. Writers often use subordinate clauses to provide additional information, clarify ideas, or express conditions or contrasts in their writing.

Review Questions

• How do subordinate clauses enhance sentence variety and complexity?
  • Subordinate clauses enhance sentence variety and complexity by allowing writers to combine ideas in more intricate ways. By introducing additional information or context through these clauses, writers can create longer sentences that convey relationships between ideas more effectively. This variety not only improves the flow of writing but also engages readers by offering deeper insights into the thoughts being expressed.
• Discuss the different roles that subordinate clauses can play within a sentence. Provide examples.
  • Subordinate clauses can function as adjectives, adverbs, or nouns within sentences. For instance, an adjective clause might describe a noun, as in 'The book that I borrowed was fascinating.' An adverb clause can modify verbs, such as in 'She sings beautifully when she practices regularly.' Lastly, noun clauses can act as subjects or objects, like in 'What he said surprised me.' Each type adds depth and detail to the sentences they inhabit.
• Evaluate the impact of using subordinate clauses on clarity and coherence in writing. How can overusing them be detrimental?
  • Using subordinate clauses can significantly enhance clarity and coherence by linking related ideas and providing essential details that enrich the narrative. However, overusing subordinate clauses may lead to convoluted sentences that confuse readers. If too many ideas are packed into one sentence with multiple subordinate clauses, it can overwhelm the reader and obscure the main point. Striking a balance between using subordinate clauses for complexity while maintaining clear and concise writing is key to effective communication.

Related terms

independent clause: An independent clause is a group of words that contains a subject and a verb and expresses a complete thought, able to stand alone as a sentence.

conjunction: A conjunction is a word used to connect clauses or sentences, with subordinating conjunctions like 'although' and 'because' specifically introducing subordinate clauses.

complex sentence: A complex sentence is made up of one independent clause and at least one subordinate clause, showcasing how these elements interact to create more detailed ideas.