Clauses
A clause is a sequence of related words containing both a subject and a predicate. There are two types of clauses: an independent clause and a subordinate clause. An independent clause is a complete sentence, while a subordinate clause acts as an adverb, an adjective, or a noun.
Example
I saw the dog, for it stood staring at me. [independent clauses connected by a coordinating conjuntion]
I saw the dog, which was staring at me. [subordinate adjective clause]
I saw the dog because it stood staring at me. [subordinate adverb clause]
I saw that the dog stood staring at me. [subordinate noun clause]
As shown in the examples, subordinate clauses begin with subordinating conjuntions or relative pronouns. They are grammatically dependent upon independent clauses.
The following words are commonly use as subordinating conjunctions:
after
although
as
because
before
even
how
if
now that
once
since
so that
than
that
though
unless
until
when
where
whether
while
Try It!
In the following sentences, locate the subordinate clauses and specify what it is functioning as.
1. What the magazine says may be false.
2. Countrysides where people can find time for rest and relaxation no longer exist.
3. When the storm hit, the electricity went out.
4. As the days grew shorter, Doug’s amount of homework grew.
5. Listen as closely as you can.