What is a dependent clause?

A dependent clause is indeed a clause that cannot stand alone as a complete sentence. It typically begins with a subordinating conjunction (like "although," "because," "if," or "when") or a relative pronoun (such as "who," "which," or "that") that connects it to an independent clause. This relationship indicates that the dependent clause cannot convey a complete thought on its own and requires an independent clause to provide context or meaning.

For example, in the sentence, "Although it was raining, we went for a walk," "Although it was raining" is a dependent clause because it does not present a full idea by itself. It leaves the reader expecting more information, which is provided by the independent clause "we went for a walk." Understanding this distinction is essential for grasping the structure of complex sentences and how clauses work together to convey meaning.