Dependent (subordinate) clause
SAT glossary · Reading & Writing
Definition
A clause with a subject and verb that cannot stand alone as a sentence. Central to the Boundaries questions: joining a dependent to an independent clause governs comma and semicolon choice.
Dependent (subordinate) clause in plain English
A dependent (or 'subordinate') clause has both a subject and a verb, just like a complete sentence — but it STILL can't stand alone as its own sentence, because it starts with a word (like 'because,' 'although,' or 'when') that makes it feel unfinished, like it's waiting for the rest of the thought. This concept sits at the heart of every question about connecting clauses correctly: exactly how you're allowed to punctuate the joint between a dependent clause and an independent (complete) clause depends entirely on recognizing which one is which.
Also called: subordinate
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