Understanding Clauses
A clause is a part of a sentence that consists of a subject and a predicate (a
verb along with any objects or modifiers associated with it). Clauses are
fundamental in constructing sentences in English language and they play a
significant role in qualifying, modifying and defining specific words in a
sentence.
Different Types of Clauses
Understanding the different types of clauses helps in constructing proper
sentences and in enhancing the clarity of your message. Different types of
clauses can provide different layers of information about the subject of the
sentence. Below are the types of clauses.
1. Independent Clauses
As the name suggests, an independent clause can stand on its own as a
complete sentence. It describes a complete action or thought and does not
need any other word group to provide a complete thought. An independent
clause contains a subject and a predicate. It expresses a complete thought
and can stand by itself as a sentence.
Example:
o She runs.
o Jessica plays the piano.
2. Dependent Clauses
Dependent clauses, on the other hand, are not complete sentences. They are
dependent on independent clauses to make sense. Dependent clauses also
have a subject and a predicate, but they can't stand alone as a complete
thought. These clauses are often introduced with subordinating conjunctions.
Example:
o Because she runs (Dependent clause is incomplete without further
information).
o When Jessica plays the piano (Dependent clause is incomplete without
further information).
Relative Clauses
Relative clauses, also known as adjective clauses, are a type of dependent
clause that are used to modify a noun or a noun phrase. They give additional
information about the noun in the sentence. Relative clauses start with
relative pronouns such as 'who', 'which', 'that', 'whom' etc.
Example:
o The boy who wears glasses is my cousin.
o The book which lies on the table is mine.
Rules to Construct Clauses
Here are few rules to keep in mind while constructing sentences using
clauses:
1. Complete Sentences
Ensure all your independent clauses are complete sentences. They should
contain a subject and a verb, and communicate a complete thought.
Incorrect: Goes to school.
Correct: He goes to school.
2. Fragment Sentences
Avoid using dependent clauses alone. Doing so results in fragment sentences
which are grammatically incorrect.
Incorrect: Because he goes to school.
Correct: He is my best friend because he goes to school with me.
3. Linking Clauses
Use correct conjunctions to connect different clauses. The conjunctions 'and',
'but', 'or', etc., are used to connect independent clauses. Subordinating
conjunctions such as 'although', 'because', 'since', etc., are often employed
to introduce dependent clauses.
Constructing Complex Sentences with Clauses
Complex sentences can be constructed using a combination of independent
and dependent clauses. This adds depth to your writing and enables you to
communicate complex thoughts and ideas.
Example:
o Although it was raining, John went out to play.
o She visited the museum after she finished her work.
