A subordinate, or dependent, clause is similar to a main clause, but it is not a complete thought.
How to Spot a Subordinate Clause
Subordinate clauses typically begin with subordinating conjunctions, relative 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 |
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.
Need more help identifying subordinate clauses? Complete the practice exercises in this video!
Sentences
Teacher Resources
Want clauses for your classroom? Get the Main and Subordinate Clause Notes at TPT.
Maximize students’ grammar with the Grammar Notes Bundle, available through TPT.
Once students have mastered main clauses, they’re read to tackle run-on sentences. Get the Run-on Sentences Notes and Practice at TPT.
Once students have mastered main clauses, they can learn the rules for using semicolons! Get the Semicolons Notes and Practice at TPT.