This document defines and provides examples of different types of clauses: main clauses can stand alone as a sentence, while subordinate clauses cannot. Adjective clauses modify nouns or pronouns, adverb clauses modify verbs, adjectives or adverbs, and noun clauses are used as nouns within a main clause. Main clauses have subjects and predicates, as do subordinate clauses, but subordinate clauses do not express a complete thought on their own.

1. Clauses

2. Clause
is a group of words that has a
subject and a predicate (verb).
A clause can function as a
sentence by itself or as a part
of a sentence.

3. Main Clause
has a subject and a predicate and
expresses a complete thought. It
is the only type of clause that can
stand alone as a sentence. It is
also called an Independent
Clause.

4. Example
The curtain rose.
The cast bowed, and the audience applauded.
Subject Verb
Main Clause
Subject Verb Subject Verb
Main Clause Main Clause

5. Subordinate Clause
also called Dependent Clause,
has a subject and a predicate
but does not express a
complete thought, so it cannot
stand alone as a sentence.

6. Example
When the dog barked, the baby cried.
Subject Verb
Subordinate Clause Main Clause
Subject Verb

7. Adjective Clause
is a subordinate clause that
modifies a noun or pronoun.

8. Example
Magazines that inform and entertain are my favorites.
Several writers whom I admire contribute to the
magazines.
The store where I buy magazines sponsors readings by
contributors.

9. Adverb Clause
is a subordinate clause that
modifies a verb, an adjective, or
an adverb. It tells when, where,
how, why, to what extent, or
under what conditions.

10. Example
Before I took the test, I studied for hours.
I studied longer than I had ever studied before.
I was happy because I passed the test.

11. Noun Clause
is a subordinate clause that is
used as a noun within the main
clause of a sentence.

12. Example
Whoever wins the election will speak.
The reporter will do whatever is required to get an
interview.
The senator will give whoever asks an interview.
A news story should begin with whatever gets the
reader’s attention.
That is why she included specific data in the article.