What Are The Subordinate Clauses

Understanding Subordinate Clauses: The Building Blocks of Complex Sentences

Subordinate clauses, also known as dependent clauses, are essential components of complex sentences. Understanding them is key to mastering grammar and constructing clear, sophisticated writing. This comprehensive guide will delve into the intricacies of subordinate clauses, exploring their various types, functions, and how to identify them in sentences. We'll uncover the secrets to correctly using these grammatical structures, improving your writing skills and enabling you to communicate your ideas with precision and nuance.

What is a Subordinate Clause?

A subordinate clause is a group of words that contains a subject and a verb, but it cannot stand alone as a complete sentence. It's dependent on an independent clause (a complete sentence) to create a grammatically correct and meaningful sentence. Think of it as a supporting player in a sentence, adding detail and complexity to the main idea. Unlike independent clauses, which express a complete thought, subordinate clauses provide additional information, context, or explanation. They are incomplete thoughts on their own and require a main clause to complete their meaning. For example, "because it was raining" is a subordinate clause; it needs a main clause like "The game was cancelled" to form a complete sentence: "The game was cancelled because it was raining."

Identifying Subordinate Clauses: Key Characteristics

Several key features help identify subordinate clauses:

• Subject and Verb: Like independent clauses, subordinate clauses always have a subject (the person, place, thing, or idea performing the action) and a verb (the action word).
• Incomplete Thought: A subordinate clause cannot stand alone as a complete sentence; it leaves the reader hanging, needing further information.
• Subordinating Conjunction or Relative Pronoun: Subordinate clauses usually begin with a subordinating conjunction (words like because, although, since, if, when, while, after, before, until) or a relative pronoun (words like who, whom, whose, which, that). These words signal the dependent nature of the clause.

Types of Subordinate Clauses

Subordinate clauses are categorized based on their function within a sentence. The main types are:

1. Adverbial Clauses

Adverbial clauses modify verbs, adjectives, or other adverbs. They answer questions like when, where, why, how, to what extent. They often begin with subordinating conjunctions.

• Examples:

  • Because it was raining, the picnic was cancelled. (Reason)
  • After the movie ended, we went for ice cream. (Time)
  • Where the river flows, the land is fertile. (Place)
  • Although she was tired, she finished the race. (Concession)
  • Since you asked, I'll help you. (Cause)
  • If it snows, we'll build a snowman. (Condition)
  • Unless you study, you won't pass the exam. (Condition)
  • While I was sleeping, the thief broke in. (Time)
  • As he spoke, the audience listened intently. (Time/Manner)
  • So that he could succeed, he worked hard. (Purpose)

2. Noun Clauses

Noun clauses function as nouns within a sentence. They can act as subjects, objects, complements, or appositives. They often begin with words like that, what, whoever, whomever, whether.

• Examples:

  • That he passed the exam surprised everyone. (Subject)
  • I believe that he is innocent. (Object of a verb)
  • The question is whether we should go. (Complement)
  • The fact that he lied is unforgivable. (Appositive)
  • I know what you mean. (Object of a verb)
  • Whoever wins the lottery will be very rich. (Subject)
  • Tell me what you saw. (Object of a verb)
  • I don't know whether to laugh or cry. (Object of a verb)

3. Adjective Clauses (Relative Clauses)

Adjective clauses modify nouns or pronouns. They provide additional information about the noun or pronoun they describe. They often begin with relative pronouns (who, whom, whose, which, that) or relative adverbs (where, when, why).

• Examples:

  • The book that I borrowed from the library is overdue. (Modifies "book")
  • The woman who lives next door is a doctor. (Modifies "woman")
  • The house where I grew up is still standing. (Modifies "house")
  • The reason why he left is unknown. (Modifies "reason")
  • The car, which was very old, broke down. (Modifies "car")
  • The student whose essay won the prize is very talented. (Modifies "student")
  • He is the man whom I met yesterday. (Modifies "man")

Understanding the Differences: A Closer Look

While the distinctions between these clause types are important, there can be some overlap. The key is to look at the function of the subordinate clause within the sentence. For instance, a clause beginning with "because" is typically adverbial, explaining a reason. However, consider this sentence: "The reason because he was late is still unclear." Here, "because he was late" acts as a noun clause, functioning as the subject of the sentence. The context is crucial in determining the type.

Punctuation with Subordinate Clauses

Punctuation rules around subordinate clauses depend on their placement within the sentence:

• Subordinate clause before the main clause: Usually followed by a comma. Example: Because it was raining, the game was cancelled.

• Subordinate clause after the main clause: Often no comma is needed. Example: The game was cancelled because it was raining. However, if the subordinate clause is nonrestrictive (adds nonessential information), a comma is needed. Example: The game, which was scheduled for Saturday, was cancelled because it was raining.

• Subordinate clause as an interruption: Commas are used to set it off from the rest of the sentence. Example: The game, although it was anticipated by many, was cancelled because it was raining.

Common Errors and How to Avoid Them

Several common errors occur when using subordinate clauses:

• Comma splices: Joining two independent clauses with only a comma. Incorrect: The sun was shining, the birds were singing. Correct: The sun was shining, and the birds were singing. Or: The sun was shining; the birds were singing.

• Run-on sentences: Joining two independent clauses without proper punctuation or conjunctions. Incorrect: I went to the store I bought milk. Correct: I went to the store, and I bought milk.

• Misplaced modifiers: Placing a subordinate clause in a location that creates ambiguity. Incorrect: Walking down the street, the dog barked at me. Correct: Walking down the street, I heard the dog bark at me.

• Fragment sentences: Using a subordinate clause as a complete sentence. Incorrect: Because it was raining. Correct: Because it was raining, the game was cancelled.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What's the difference between a phrase and a clause?

A: A phrase is a group of related words without a subject and a verb. A clause contains a subject and a verb.

Q: Can a sentence have multiple subordinate clauses?

A: Yes, sentences can contain multiple subordinate clauses, creating complex and layered structures.

Q: How can I improve my use of subordinate clauses in writing?

A: Practice identifying them in your reading, and consciously incorporate them into your writing, ensuring correct punctuation and avoiding common errors. Vary the types of subordinate clauses you use to add interest and sophistication to your writing.

Conclusion

Mastering subordinate clauses is a significant step towards becoming a more proficient writer. By understanding their different types, functions, and proper usage, you can craft more nuanced and expressive sentences. Remember to focus on clarity, precision, and correct punctuation to avoid common errors. With consistent practice and attention to detail, you can confidently and effectively utilize subordinate clauses to elevate your writing to a higher level. The ability to seamlessly integrate these grammatical elements will significantly enhance the richness and complexity of your written communication. Through diligent study and application, you can transform your writing from simple to sophisticated, conveying your ideas with greater depth and impact.