Dependent Clauses | Basic Grammar for IELTS PDF Download

Dependent Clauses

A dependent clause, also known as a subordinate clause, is a type of clause that cannot stand alone as a complete sentence. It relies on an independent clause to convey its meaning and function within a sentence.

Here are some key details about dependent clauses:

(a) Relationship to Independent Clauses

Dependent clauses cannot function as complete sentences because they lack a complete thought. They need an independent clause to complete their meaning.

• For example: "Because it was raining" (dependent clause)
• "After she finished her work" (dependent clause)

(b) Dependent Clauses Characteristics

Dependent clauses stand incomplete on their own without expressing a full idea. They rely on an independent clause to furnish the essential information for their significance.

For instance: "Because it was raining" (dependent clause), "After she finished her work" (dependent clause)

• "Because it was raining" (dependent clause)
• "After she finished her work" (dependent clause)
  

Types of Dependent Clauses:

(i) Noun Clauses: These act as nouns within a sentence, functioning as the subject or object of a verb.

• Example: "What she said" (subject), "I know what she said" (object)

(ii) Adjective Clauses: These modify nouns or pronouns, providing additional details or descriptions.

• Example: "The book that she is reading"
  

(iii) Adverb Clauses: These modify verbs, adjectives, or adverbs, offering information about time, place, manner, condition, or reason.

• Example: "He left when the movie ended"

Adverb Clauses

Adverb Clauses modify verbs, adjectives, or adverbs, providing additional information about time, place, manner, condition, or reason. For instance, in the sentence "He left when the movie ended," the adverb clause "when the movie ended" specifies the time of his departure.

Subordinating Conjunctions

• Subordinating Conjunctions introduce dependent clauses, linking them to independent clauses and showing the relationship between them.
• Words like "because," "if," "when," "although," "since," and "while" are common subordinating conjunctions.
• For example, "Because it was raining, we stayed indoors" illustrates the use of "because" to connect the two clauses.
• Similarly, "He went to the party even though he was tired" demonstrates how "even though" sets up the relationship between the clauses.

Dependent Clauses in Sentences

Dependent clauses can be positioned at the beginning, middle, or end of a sentence. When a dependent clause starts a sentence, it is typically followed by a comma.

For instance:

• After completing her work, she took a walk.
• She took a walk after finishing her work.

Importance of Dependent Clauses

• Dependent clauses offer extra details, context, or relationships within a sentence.
• They are crucial for crafting intricate sentences that convey nuanced meanings.
• Understanding different types of dependent clauses and their roles aids in creating clear and well-structured sentences.