A dependent clause contains a subject and verb but does not normally stand on its own as a complete sentence. It depends on another clause to complete the structure or meaning. In grammar, “dependent clause” is the usual spelling, even where “dependant” is used for a person.
Recognise a clause rather than a phrase
A clause has a subject and a verb relationship. “Because the deadline changed” contains both, but the word “because” leaves the reader expecting the consequence. “After the deadline” is a phrase in this context, not the same structure. Identifying the verb helps you distinguish a clause from a short group of words that lacks a clause structure.
Connect a dependent clause to a main clause
“Because the deadline changed, we revised the plan” combines the dependent clause with a complete main clause. “We revised the plan because the deadline changed” expresses the relationship in a different order. Read the sentence as a whole and check that the reader can identify both the circumstance and the main point.
Notice different kinds of dependent clause
Some clauses give a reason, time or condition. Others describe a noun, as in “the report that we submitted”, or fill a role within the sentence, as in “We explained what the results meant.” A single list of opening words is useful for practice but does not capture every possible dependent construction.
Use punctuation to make the structure clear
An introductory dependent clause often takes a comma before the main clause. Other punctuation decisions depend on whether information is essential or additional. Do not place a comma simply where you pause when speaking. Check the grammatical relationship and use your course’s language guidance where a construction is unfamiliar.
Find fragments during proofreading
Read each sentence separately and ask whether it has a complete main clause. A fragment may be deliberate in creative writing, but it can make an academic explanation unclear. Repair it by joining the dependent clause to the relevant sentence or rewriting the idea. Avoid adding extra words without checking what the sentence needs to communicate.
Related study guides
- Irony and Tragic Heroes: Definitions and Literary Analysis
- Word Choice and Confusing Words: Meaning Before Sophistication
- Tone in Writing: Types, Examples and How to Analyse Them
For general study guidance, visit the knowledgebase. Follow your own course requirements when applying this article to assessed work.