Basically, not all writers know what a subordinate clause is although there are those who really knew more about it. But for those who are not aware of the real definition of a subordinate clause and how it plays an important role in writing, here’s what you need to know.

Subordinate clause is obviously has a subject and a predicate but it doesn’t really express a complete thought. Usually, a subordinate clause begins with a subordinating conjunction or a relative pronoun which are also considered as subordinating elements in a sentence.

Learning about subordinate clauses isn’t necessary if all you want is to put together fundamentally sound sentences that will pass an English correction software. However, you need to know how it affects the quality of your content and how it helps you in writing such an effective composition without any hesitation using a subordinate clause in your writing.

Subordinate clause can’t stand alone and depends on the main clause. But its importance is to help completing the thought of a particular sentence by proving a clearer image about the concept of your topic in a clearer and understandable manner.

On the other hand, incorrect way of writing a subordinate clause can ruin your piece. There are types of subordinate clause that you can use in your writing. It can either start with an adjective, an adverb or a noun. These clauses can add a clearer meaning to your sentences. Without a main clause, your subordinate clause is useless and might only lead to a bad writing content once you include it in your piece.

When you’re writing, though, sprinkling your work with these “dependent” elements of speech can add a level of depth and artfulness to your composition.

Throwing a simple sentence here and a compound sentence there usually isn’t enough to facilitate engaging writing. Subordinate clauses, with their flexible uses, can help break that wearisome quality in your work.

When using subordinate clauses, here a couple of things to keep in mind:

– While it contains both a subject and a predicate, a subordinate clause is not a sentence. So don’t use it as one.
– Subordinate clauses function as a single part of speech, either as a noun, an adjective or an adverb. This is despite the fact that they contain a coherent, half-complete thought.

If it’s clear how you should be using subordinate clauses, the next thing to note is your use of punctuation. Simply put, too many writers get confused when a comma is needed along with their subordinate clause.

– If the subordinate clause comes before the main clause, then you should use a comma (as in, “Whether you like it or not, I’m attending the concert”).
– If the subordinate clause comes after the main clause, then no comma is necessary (as in, “I’m attending the concert whether you like it or not”). Adding one, however, isn’t incorrect, as your grammar checking software will agree. It just reads better when you don’t force a pause.

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Category: Writing
Keywords: dependent clauses, subordinate clauses