Module 1: Fragments and Dependent Clauses (Dependent Clauses and Functions)

Vocabulary flashcards covering dependent clauses, noun clauses, adjective clauses, adverb clauses, and related concepts from module one.

Dependent clause (subordinate clause)

A clause that cannot stand alone as a complete sentence and must be attached to an independent clause.

Independent clause

A clause that can stand alone as a complete sentence.

Noun clause

A dependent clause that functions as a noun (subject, object, or subject complement) within a sentence, often introduced by what, that, or other wh- words.

Adjective clause (relative clause)

A dependent clause that modifies a noun; introduced by relative pronouns such as who, whom, which, or that.

Adverb clause

A dependent clause that functions as an adverb, describing a verb, and expressing relationships like time, reason, condition, or contrast.

Identifying (restrictive) adjective clause

An adjective clause that provides essential information about a noun; usually no comma and often introduced with that.

Non-identifying (non-restrictive) adjective clause

An adjective clause that adds nonessential information and is set off by commas; often introduced with which.

That (relative pronoun usage)

Used to introduce identifying adjective clauses; typically no comma before it and sometimes preferred for essential information.

Which (relative pronoun usage)

Used to introduce non-identifying adjective clauses; typically preceded by a comma to set off nonessential information.

Preparatory it

A dummy subject ‘it’ used to begin a sentence and delay the real subject to later in the sentence.

Subject (in a noun clause)

The clause can act as the subject of a sentence, e.g., 'What you do in your free time is your business.'

Subject complement

A word or phrase that follows a linking verb and completes the meaning of the subject (e.g., in 'Tom isn’t friendly,' 'not friendly' is a subject complement).

Conjunctions linking adverb clauses

Subordinating conjunctions (because, when, if, although, since, etc.) that join an adverb clause to the main clause to show relationships like time, reason, condition, or contrast.

Fragment

A phrase or dependent clause that does not form a complete sentence and must be revised or joined to an independent clause to become complete.