A group of words that has a subject and a verb but is not a complete sentence. Sometimes called a subordinate clause. A dependent clause needs a main clause. A main clause is a complete sentence.
- Eat your food before it gets cold.
(main clause/eat your food – dependent clause/before it gets cold) - I can’t go on holiday, as I don’t have enough money.
(main clause/I can’t go on holiday – dependent clause/as I don’t have enough money) - I will drive to the airport because I can’t wait for the bus.
(main clause/I will drive to the airport – dependent clause/I can’t wait for the bus)
Common mistakes with sentences.