If you want to write clear and complex sentences, understanding dependent clauses is essential. Unlike independent clauses (which can stand alone as complete sentences), dependent clauses rely on the rest of the sentence to make sense.
In this blog, we’ll explore the three main types of dependent clauses—adjective clauses, adverb clauses, and noun clauses—with examples to help you master them.
1. Adjective Clauses (Relative Clauses)
Function: Modify a noun or pronoun by providing more information.
Key Words: Who, whom, whose, which, that, where, when
Examples:
- The book that I borrowed from the library is fascinating.
- She is the teacher who inspired me to study literature.
- The city where I was born is famous for its festivals.
Tip: If the clause is non-essential (can be removed without changing the meaning), use commas.
- My brother, who lives in Paris, is visiting next week.
2. Adverb Clauses
Function: Modify verbs, adjectives, or other adverbs by answering how, when, where, why, to what extent, or under what condition.
Key Words: Because, although, when, if, since, while, as, unless, before, after
Examples:
- When the rain stops, we’ll go outside. (Time)
- She succeeded because she worked hard. (Reason)
- If you study well, you’ll pass the exam. (Condition)
Tip: Adverb clauses can move around in a sentence.
- Although it was late, they kept working.
- They kept working although it was late.
3. Noun Clauses
Function: Act as a subject, object, or complement in a sentence.
Key Words: That, what, who, why, whether, how, when, where
Examples:
- What she said surprised everyone. (Subject)
- I don’t know where he went. (Object)
- The problem is that we don’t have enough time. (Complement)
Tip: Unlike adjective and adverb clauses, noun clauses replace a noun in the sentence.
Final Thoughts
Mastering dependent clauses helps you write more sophisticated and varied sentences. Here’s a quick recap:
✅ Adjective clauses – Describe nouns (who, which, that)
✅ Adverb clauses – Modify verbs (because, when, if)
✅ Noun clauses – Function as nouns (what, whether, that)
See more:
Complex Sentences Made Simple: 5 Fundamentals Every Writer Should Know