An independent clause (or main clause) is a clause that can stand by itself as a simple sentence. An independent clause contains a subject and a predicate and makes sense by itself.
Independent clauses can be joined by using a semicolon or by using a comma followed by a coordinating conjunction (and, but, for, or, nor, so, yet, etc.).
Examples
In the following example sentences, independent clauses are underlined, and conjunctions are in bold.
Single independent clauses:
- I have enough money to buy an ice cream cone.
- My favourite flavour is chocolate.
- Let's go to the shop.
Multiple independent clauses:
- I have enough money to buy an ice cream cone; my favourite flavour is chocolate.
- I have enough money to buy an ice cream cone, so let's go to the shop.
See also
- Comma splice
- Conditional sentence
- Dependent clause
- Relative clause
- Run-on sentence
- Sentence clause structure
References
- Rozakis, Laurie (2003). The Complete Idiot's Guide to Grammar and Style pp. 152. Alpha. ISBN 1-59257-115-8.
External links
- Clauses: Independent, The Tongue Untied
- Clauses, Online Writing Lab
- Independent & Dependent Clauses, My Schoolhouse