Independent and Dependent Clauses

A clause contains a subject-predicate relationship. Independent clauses can stand alone; dependent clauses require attachment. Noun clauses fill noun positions, relative clauses modify nouns, and adverbial clauses express circumstances such as time, reason, contrast, or condition.

Patterns and examples

• What she decided remains unclear. (noun clause)
• The book that you lent me is excellent. (relative clause)
• We waited until the bus arrived. (adverbial clause)

Notice how form and meaning work together. Read examples aloud, identify the controlling word or clause, and compare them with nearby alternatives before applying the pattern in new writing.

Practice sentences

• Underline every clause and label it.
• Turn Because it was late into a complete sentence.

After answering, explain the rule in your own words and create one original sentence using the same structure.