Definition & Bedeutung von "dependent clause"

What is a "dependent clause"?

A dependent clause is a group of words that contains a subject and a verb but cannot stand alone as a complete sentence because it does not express a complete thought. Dependent clauses typically begin with subordinating conjunctions, such as "because," "although," "if," or "when," which indicate the relationship between the dependent clause and an independent clause. For example, in the sentence "Although it was raining, we went for a walk," the phrase "Although it was raining" is a dependent clause that provides additional information but cannot stand alone as a complete thought. Dependent clauses are often used to add detail, context, or complexity to sentences, helping to convey more nuanced meanings.