Independent clause
An independent clause (or main clause) is a clause that can stand by itself as a simple sentence. An independent clause contains a subject and a predicate; it makes sense by itself and therefore expresses a complete thought.
Independent clauses can be joined by using a semicolon or by using a comma followed by a coordinating conjunction (for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so).
Examples
- I drive a bus. (This is a simple sentence.)
- I am a doctor, and my wife is a lawyer. (This is a compound sentence made up of two independent clauses: I am a doctor and my wife is a lawyer.)
- I want to be a nurse, but I need to receive my science degree. (compound sentence made up of two independent clauses: I want to be a nurse and I need to receive my science degree)
- John walked to the park with his friend, Jim. (This is another simple sentence.)
See also
- Clause
- Dependent clause
- Relative clause
- Conditional clause
- Comma splice
- Simple sentence
References
- Rozakis, Laurie (2003). The Complete Idiot's Guide to Grammar and Style pp. 152. Alpha. ISBN 1-59257-115-8.
External links
- The Tongue Untied: Independent Clause
- Owl Online Writing Lab: Independent and Dependent Clauses
- Independent Clauses - Dependent Clauses - Elementary Grammar Lessons & Tests - My Schoolhouse - Online Learning:
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