Clauses

A clause is a group of words in a sentence which contains a subject and a verb.

Subordinate Clause

• aka dependent clause

• has a subject and verb but cannot stand alone​

• it cannot stand alone in a sentence

• usually start with because, if, since, that, until, which or whom.

• if a sentence begins with a subordinate clause, it must have a comma​

​Subordinate Clause Examples

They had to walk home despite the torrential rain and wind.

If the subordinate clause is at the end of the sentence, it is not necessary to add a comma, unless for clarity.

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Despite the torrential rain and wind, they had to walk home.

If the subordinate clause is placed at start of the sentence, you need to add a comma to separate it from the main clause.​

​Because it is raining, we will not be able to play the game.

Independendent clause or main clause

• Expresses a complete thought

• can stand alone and still make sense

• a complete sentence​

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Ex: The girl ran home.

We will attend the game next week. ​

Phrases DO NOT have both a subject and a verb

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Clauses DO have a subject and a verb​

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​Phrases vs. Clauses