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 functions as a dependent element within a sentence, adding additional information but relying on an independent clause to form a complete thought. These clauses often begin with subordinating conjunctions such as 'although,' 'because,' or 'if,' establishing a relationship between ideas.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Subordinate clauses can serve different roles in a sentence, such as acting as an adjective, adverb, or noun.
2. They often begin with subordinating conjunctions like 'when,' 'while,' 'since,' or 'although,' which signal their dependence on the main clause.
3. In writing, using subordinate clauses effectively helps create varied sentence structures and more complex ideas.
4. A subordinate clause provides essential context or detail, enhancing the meaning of the independent clause it accompanies.
5. Removing a subordinate clause from a sentence may change its meaning significantly or render it incomplete.

Review Questions

• How does a subordinate clause function within the structure of a complex sentence?
  • A subordinate clause adds depth to a complex sentence by providing additional information that relies on the main idea presented in the independent clause. For instance, in the sentence 'I will go outside if it stops raining,' 'if it stops raining' is the subordinate clause that cannot stand alone and clarifies the condition under which the action occurs. This interdependence helps convey more nuanced thoughts.
• What are some common subordinating conjunctions used to introduce subordinate clauses, and how do they affect meaning?
  • Common subordinating conjunctions include 'because,' 'although,' 'while,' and 'if.' These conjunctions help establish specific relationships between the subordinate clause and the independent clause. For example, using 'although' creates contrast, while 'because' indicates causation. The choice of conjunction shapes how the reader interprets the connection between the ideas being expressed.
• Evaluate the importance of subordinate clauses in enhancing writing style and clarity in communication.
  • Subordinate clauses are crucial for elevating writing style by allowing writers to combine ideas in more sophisticated ways. They enable the creation of complex sentences that convey relationships between different thoughts, thereby enhancing clarity. By effectively using subordinate clauses, writers can provide context, specify conditions, and elaborate on points without overwhelming readers with overly simplistic sentences. This richness in expression contributes to clearer communication and more engaging writing.

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.

subordinating conjunction: A subordinating conjunction is a word that connects a subordinate clause to an independent clause, indicating the relationship between them, such as time, cause, or condition.

complex sentence: A complex sentence is a type of sentence that contains at least one independent clause and one or more subordinate clauses, showcasing how ideas can be linked.