subordinate clause: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples

A main clause can stand alone as a complete sentence with a subject and predicate expressing a complete thought. A subordinate clause cannot stand alone; it depends on the main clause for its full meaning.

Yes, a sentence can have multiple subordinate clauses, making it a complex or compound-complex sentence. For example: 'After we finished dinner, which was delicious, we watched a film because we were tired.'

Yes, in modern grammar, these terms are synonymous and interchangeable. 'Dependent clause' is often preferred in contemporary American educational contexts.

A comma is typically used when the subordinate clause comes before the main clause (e.g., 'Although it was cold, we went out.'). When it comes after the main clause, a comma is often not needed unless the clause is non-essential (e.g., 'We went out although it was cold.' vs. 'We visited London, which is my favourite city.').

A clause that cannot stand alone as a complete sentence because it does not express a complete thought.

Subordinate clause is usually formal to neutral; common in written english, education, linguistics, and precise communication. in register.

Subordinate clause: in British English it is pronounced /səˌbɔː.dɪ.nət ˈklɔːz/, and in American English it is pronounced /səˈbɔːr.dɪ.nət ˈklɑːz/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.