Subordinate clause

Pronunciation: /ˈsʌbɔɹdʌneɪt ˈkɫɔz/

Subordinate clause (noun)

  1. A group of words with a verb that cannot stand alone and needs another part of a sentence to make full meaning.
  2. A dependent clause that often starts with a word like when, because, or if, and works as part of a larger sentence.

Examples

  • A subordinate clause depends on the main clause for meaning.
  • The sentence becomes clearer when a subordinate clause is added.