Independent Clause Vs. Dependent Clause

Front

What is an independent clause?

Back

An independent clause is a group of words that can stand alone as a complete sentence. It expresses a complete thought.

Front

What is a dependent clause?

Back

A dependent clause is a group of words that cannot stand alone as a complete sentence. It does not express a complete thought.

Front

Example of an independent clause: 'The dog barked.'

Back

This is an independent clause because it expresses a complete thought and can stand alone.

Front

Example of a dependent clause: 'Because the dog barked.'

Back

This is a dependent clause because it does not express a complete thought and cannot stand alone.

Front

What is the main difference between independent and dependent clauses?

Back

The main difference is that independent clauses can stand alone as complete sentences, while dependent clauses cannot.

Front

Identify the clause: 'Although it was raining.'

Back

This is a dependent clause because it cannot stand alone as a complete sentence.

Front

Identify the clause: 'She went to the store.'

Back

This is an independent clause because it expresses a complete thought.

Front

What does it mean for a clause to be a complete thought?

Back

A complete thought means that the clause conveys a full idea and does not leave the reader hanging.

Front

Can a dependent clause be part of a larger sentence?

Back

Yes, a dependent clause can be part of a larger sentence, usually connected to an independent clause.

Front

Example of a sentence with both types of clauses: 'Although it was raining, she went for a walk.'

Back

In this sentence, 'Although it was raining' is a dependent clause, and 'she went for a walk' is an independent clause.