A subordinate clause, also known as a dependent clause, is a clause that cannot stand alone as a sentence because it does not contain a subject and a verb that express a complete thought. Subordinate clauses are dependent on a main clause, also known as an independent clause, for their meaning. Subordinate clauses are often introduced by subordinating conjunctions, such as "because," "although," "while," "when," "where," "if," "that," and "who."
There are three types of subordinate clauses: adjective clauses, adverb clauses, and noun clauses. Adjective clauses, also known as relative clauses, modify a noun or pronoun in the main clause and are introduced by relative pronouns such as "who," "whom," "whose," "that," and "which." Adverb clauses modify the verb in the main clause and answer questions such as "when," "where," "why," "under what conditions," and "to what extent." Noun clauses act as the subject or object of the verb in the main clause.
Subordinate clauses can provide additional information about the noun or pronoun in the main clause, specify the time or place of the action in the main clause, or express the cause or consequence of the action in the main clause. For example, in the sentence "I will go to the store because I need milk," the subordinate clause "because I need milk" explains the reason for the action in the main clause "I will go to the store." In the sentence "I will go to the store when I finish my homework," the subordinate clause "when I finish my homework" specifies the time of the action in the main clause.
It is important to use subordinate clauses correctly in writing to convey the intended meaning and to ensure that the sentence is grammatically correct. When using subordinate clauses, it is important to remember to use a comma to separate the subordinate clause from the main clause unless the subordinate clause comes at the beginning of the sentence. If the subordinate clause comes at the beginning of the sentence, a comma should be used to separate it from the main clause if it is a nonrestrictive clause, or an adjective clause that is not essential to the meaning of the sentence. If the subordinate clause is a restrictive clause, or an adjective clause that is essential to the meaning of the sentence, it should not be set off by commas.
In conclusion, subordinate clauses are an important part of the English language as they provide additional information, specify time and place, and express cause and consequence in sentences. It is important to use them correctly in order to convey the intended meaning and to ensure grammatically correct writing.
