Here's a breakdown:
* Subject: The person, place, or thing that performs the action.
* Verb: The action or state of being.
* Incomplete thought: It leaves the reader wanting more information.
Think of it like this: Imagine a child asking "Can I have a cookie?" This is a dependent clause. It has a subject ("I") and a verb ("have"), but it doesn't make sense on its own. We need the independent clause "Yes, you can" to complete the thought.
Types of Dependent Clauses:
Dependent clauses are categorized by their function:
* Adjective Clauses: Modify nouns or pronouns. They answer the questions "which one?" or "what kind?"
* Adverb Clauses: Modify verbs, adjectives, or other adverbs. They answer questions like "when?", "where?", "why?", or "how?".
* Noun Clauses: Function as nouns, acting as the subject, object, or complement of a sentence.
Examples:
* Adjective Clause: "The house that sits on the hill is beautiful."
* Adverb Clause: "I went to the store because I needed milk."
* Noun Clause: "What you said is very important."
Key Features of Dependent Clauses:
* Subordinating Conjunctions: These words connect dependent clauses to independent clauses. Some common subordinating conjunctions include "because," "although," "when," "since," "if," "while," "before," "after," and "until."
* Relative Pronouns: These words connect dependent clauses to the nouns they modify. Common relative pronouns include "who," "whom," "whose," "which," and "that."
Understanding dependent clauses is crucial for writing clear and grammatically correct sentences. They add depth and complexity to your writing by providing additional information and context.