dependent and independent clause

Dependent and Independent Clause

Dependent and independent clause markers connect ideas. They can be used in two different ways. First to connect 2 independent clauses, such as ‘however’ and ‘therefore.’ Others connect an independent clause and a dependent clause, such as ‘before’ and ‘because.’

Similarly, conjunctive adverbs can connect 2 independent clauses.

Example

Paul studied a lot; however, he did not pass the exam.

Rule: You can use this pattern: independent clause; conjunctive adverb, independent clause.

Subordinating conjunctions can connect a dependent clause to an independent clause.

Pattern 1: subordinating conjunction + dependent clause, independent clause.

“Because she is a graduate, Sally can teach undergraduates.”

With the above pattern, use a comma.

Dependent clauses can go before or after independent clauses.

Pattern 2: independent clause + subordinating conjunction + dependent clause.

“Sally can teach undergraduates because she is a graduate.”

With this second pattern, do not use a comma.

Examples of dependent and independent clauses

Dependent clause

At the wedding ceremony today the couple left after the sermon.

Peter is taller than Joan although Joan is older.

Penti City is as big as the capital city.

The hungry lion caught and ate the deer as if it had never eaten.

They came back home early because they were thirsty.

I called her before we left the house.

We could still drive even though it was stormy.

I run in the rain even if I think it is heavy.

I can cook for you if you are very tired.

She came back to town early in order to help her sick grandma.

Next month, we will travel to Japan though we are not sure of the exact date.

She hasn’t been found guilty unless she confesses at the trial.

I will not come back home until I finish this project in Singapore.

My mum advised me that whatever I do, I should be consistent.

I will call you whenever I arrive.

She was singing while dancing in the choir yesterday evening.

You can call me when you are ready to talk.

I am not sure whether to cook rice or potatoes today.

Independent Clause

Examples

I enjoy sitting by the lake and reading.

Waiting to have my car’s oil changed is boring.

She wants to travel the world and see wonderful sights.

Our planets revolve around the sun.

The professor always comes to class fully prepared.

Exercise

Use the following to make sentences

after

although

as

as if

because

before

even if

even though

if

in order to

since

though

unless

until

whatever

when

whenever

whether

while

Do you want to do more English grammar exercises, go here.

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Sarah Luma

I am a TEFL certified English Tutor with over 7 years of teaching experience offline and online. I am also an enthusiastic Refugee Rights Researcher with Master degrees in International Law. Additionally, I sing gospel music and write Christian poems. My life is based on Christianity and I am devoted to glorify God via my Biblical inspirational writings.

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