A main clause or independent clause can stand alone. It has a subject and a finite verb of its own and makes complete sense. A subordinate clause, on the other hand, cannot stand alone. It has to be added to an independent clause. It is easy to identify a subordinate clause. Subordinate clauses begin with a conjunction or a relative pronoun.

Common subordinating conjunctions are: if, whether, unless, until, though, although, even though, even if, before, after, when, while, whereas, because, as, since, as if, as though, as soon as etc.

Common relative pronouns are: who, whom, whose, which, that, where etc.

Worksheet

Underline the main clause and subordinate clause in the following sentences.

1. My father helped me when I was in great trouble.

2. The boys went home after the match was over.

3. He told me that he had lost his job.

4. India is a great country because it has a rich and diverse culture.

5. They came here after the party was over.

6. We believe in democracy although it has its shortcomings.

7. Hitler committed suicide when the German army was defeated.

8. We trust people who keep their words.

9. History is a subject that should be taught in schools.

10. He gave me a drink which was both sweet and sour.

11. She asked me what I was doing there.

12. Do you know where they have gone?

Answers

The subordinate clause is underlined in the following sentences.

12. Do you know where they have gone?

Worksheet 2

Complete the following sentences with an appropriate subordinate clause.

1. I didn’t know that ………………………….

2. We will never find out what ……………………………….

3. I will call you before ……………………………

4. You will have to get a degree if ………………………………………..

5. I haven’t decided whether ………………………………

6. I don’t know what …………………………………….

7. She started crying because …………………………………….

8. As ………………………………………, I don’t have to go to work.

9. Unless ……………………………………, I will not be able to buy a car.

10. I consoled the child who …………………………………..

Answers

1. that you were not coming

2. what happened to them

3. before I leave

4. if you want to find a good job

5. whether I should accept this offer

6. what I am supposed to do

7. because she was in pain

8. As it is a holiday

9. Unless I get a raise

10. who looked terrified