A subordinate, or dependent, clause is similar to a main clause, but it is not a complete thought.

Subordinate Clause Dependent Clause Comic

How to Spot a Subordinate Clause

Subordinate clauses typically begin with subordinating conjunctionsrelative pronouns, or relative adverbs.

Subordinating Conjunction Examples

after although as because
before even though if provided that
since though unless until
when while whenever whereas

Aliens abduct cows = main clause

Aliens is the subject, and abduct is the verb.

because they admire their spots = subordinate clause

They is the subject, and admire is the verb. It is subordinate because it begins with the subordinating conjunction because.

Relative Pronoun Examples

that who whose which
whoever whom whomever whichever
Main and Subordinate Clause Comic - The cow who let me win the staring contest is a master hypnotist. The main clause is "The cow is a master hypnotist," and the subordinate clause is "who let me win the staring contest."

The cow. . . is a master hypnotist  = main clause

The cow is the subject, and is is the verb.

who let me win the staring contest  = subordinate clause

Who is the relative pronoun and subject, and let is the verb.

Relative Adverbs

when where why

Aliens always know = main clause

Aliens is the subject, and know is the verb.

where the cows hide = subordinate clause

Cows is the subject, and hide is the verb. This clause starts with the relative adverb where, so it is subordinate.

More Subordinate Clauses!

Need more help identifying subordinate clauses? Complete the practice exercises in this video!

Sentences

Teacher Resources

The Cave of Ancient Echoes

Welcome to Pronouns Quest! Deep within this mystical cave, the correct usage of subjectobject, and possessive pronouns will guide you through the chambers. Identify the correct use of pronouns missing from in the cave’s echoes, and you will escape the labyrinth of tunnels before you.

Library of Grammaria

Welcome to Nouns Quest, where you embark on a journey to uncover lost artifacts hidden within the ancient Library of Grammaria. Each artifact represents a different type of noun—common or proper. Your mission is to find and categorize these nouns to unlock the secret chamber and escape the library.

Enchanted Grammar Garden

Welcome to Verbs Quest, an online adventure where you delve into the realms of action and linking verbs to unravel the secrets of the Enchanted Grammar Garden. Your mission is to restore statues to two distinct realms—one representing action verbs and the other linking verbs—to escape from this mystical garden.