What Are Clauses?
A clause is a group of words that forms part of a sentence. It always contains a subject and a predicate . Simply put, a clause must have both a subject and a verb to be complete.
To understand it better, here are definitions of a clause from various dictionaries:
- Oxford Learner’s Dictionary: A clause is a group of words that includes a subject and a verb and forms a sentence or part of a sentence.
- Merriam-Webster Dictionary: It defines a clause as a group of words containing a subject and predicate and functioning as a member of a complex or compound sentence.
Types of Clauses in English
In English, clauses are mainly divided into two categories: independent clauses and dependent clauses. Let’s break them down step by step.
1. Independent Clauses
An independent clause is a complete thought. It has a subject and a verb and can stand alone as a sentence.
Examples:
- She loves to dance.
- The sun is shining brightly.
These sentences make sense on their own and don’t need anything else to complete them.
2. Dependent Clauses
A dependent clause, also called a subordinate clause, has a subject and a verb but doesn’t express a complete thought. It needs to be attached to an independent clause to make sense.
Examples:
- When she arrived. (What happened when she arrived?)
- Because it was raining. (Why does it matter that it was raining?)
Types of Dependent Clauses
Dependent clauses come in three main types: noun clauses, adjective clauses, and adverbial clauses. Let’s explore each type in simple terms with examples!
a. Noun Clauses
Noun clauses act as nouns in a sentence. They can be subjects, objects, or complements.
Examples:
- What he said surprised everyone. (subject)
- I don’t know where she went. (object)
b. Adjective (Relative) Clauses
Adjective clauses modify nouns or pronouns, giving more information about them. They usually start with who, which, that, or where.
Examples:
- The book that I borrowed is amazing.
- She is the teacher who inspires everyone.
c. Adverbial Clauses
Adverbial clauses modify verbs, adjectives, or other adverbs. They answer questions like why, when, where, or how.
Examples:
- I stayed home because it was raining. (why)
- She smiled when she saw her friend. (when)
Examples of How to Use a Clause in a Sentence
Clauses are everywhere in our sentences! Whether they stand alone or work together with other clauses, they help us express ideas. Let’s look at examples of how clauses work in simple and clear sentences.
Independent Clauses (Complete Sentences)
These clauses can stand alone because they express a complete thought.
- The baby is sleeping.
- I enjoy cooking.
- The train arrived late.
- They went hiking in the mountains.
Dependent Clauses (Incomplete on Their Own)
Dependent clauses cannot stand alone and need an independent clause to complete their meaning.
- Because it was raining, we stayed inside.
- Although she was nervous, she gave a great speech.
- If you study regularly, you will do well in the exam.
- While the kids were playing, the adults prepared dinner.
Combining Independent and Dependent Clauses
Pairing these clauses adds depth and detail to your sentences.
- He left early so that he could catch the bus.
- When the teacher entered the room, the students became quiet.
- I stayed up late even though I was very tired.
- Since we moved to this city, life has been more exciting.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is a clause in English grammar?
A clause is a group of words that contains a subject and a verb. It can either form a complete thought (independent clause) or depend on another clause to complete its meaning (dependent clause).
2. What are the main types of clauses?
There are two main types:
- Independent Clauses: Can stand alone as complete sentences.
- Dependent Clauses: Cannot stand alone and rely on an independent clause for meaning.
Examples include noun clauses, adjective (relative) clauses, and adverbial clauses.
3. Why are clauses important in writing?
Clauses help structure sentences, add detail, and clarify meaning. By understanding clauses, you can write with variety, avoid sentence fragments, and improve the flow of your writing.