WEEK 6 – Clauses, part 2

Clauses:  Careful writers introduce clauses into their writing for emphasis, variety, and added information.  Clauses are either independent, meaning they can stand by themselves and make sense (in other words, sentences), or dependent, meaning they cannot stand by themselves, and to make sense, they need to attach themselves to other words, phrases, or independent clauses.

Independent clause, main clause, or sentence are synonymous and the terms may be used interchangeable.  Also, dependent and subordinate are synonymous and used interchangeably.  Subordinate also implies that the thought expressed by this type of clause is an important fact but less important than the sentence itself.  If a subordinate clause cannot be removed (the meaning of the sentence is altered), then this clause is restrictive or essential.  If the clause can be omitted without changing the meaning of the sentence, then the clause is non-restrictive or non-essential.

ADJECTIVE CLAUSE

An adjective clause is a group of words with a subject and verb and introductory relative pronoun (who, whom, which, that); this group of words modifies a single noun or pronoun.

Examples:

·  Butch, who tells the best stories, has traveled alone all through the West.

·  After reading from his novel, the author took questions that the audience enthusiastically asked.

·  The program that captures the imagination of the audience usually receives the greatest applause.

·  The Tavern, which is owned by an Englishman, does a great business in Northfield.

ADVERB CLAUSES

An adverb clause is a group of words with a subject and verb and an introductory adverb that designates when, where, how, and to what extent and expresses reason.  Adverb clauses usually modify verbs but, like single adverbs, also modify adjectives. 

Usually, when an adverb clause comes at the beginning of a sentence, it is set off by a comma.

Examples:

·  When Alyssa called, she told us that she has a new job.

·  When the sentence was written, the writer ignored standard rules of grammar.

When the adverb clause is in the middle of the sentence, it usually is set off by a comma, but at the end of the sentence it is set off by a comma only if the thought in the clause is abruptly negative to the words before.

            Examples:

·  Joan travels to Nantucket every year, although she never goes fishing. (the clause is contrary to the preceding thought)

·  Joan also visits New Bedford before she lands on Nantucket.  (no comma needed)

·  My son points beautiful portraits, even though he never took lessons.  (contradicting thought)