Independent clause

An independent clause (or main clause) is a clause that can stand by itself, also known as a simple sentence. An independent clause contains a subject and a predicate; it makes sense by itself.

Independent clauses can be joined by using a semicolon or a coordinating conjunction (for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so).

Examples

• I drive a bus. (This is a simple sentence.)
• I am a doctor, and my wife is a lawyer. (This is a compound sentence made up of two independent clauses: I am a doctor and my wife is a lawyer.)
• I want to be a nurse, but I need to receive my science degree. (compound sentence made up of two independent clauses: I want to be a nurse and I need to receive my science degree)

See also

• Clause
  • Dependent clause
  • Relative clause
  • Conditional clause
• Comma splice
• Simple sentence

References

• Rozakis, Laurie (2003). The Complete Idiot's Guide to Grammar and Style pp. 152. Alpha. ISBN 1-59257-115-8. 

External links

• The Tongue Untied: Independent Clause
• Owl Online Writing Lab: Independent and Dependent Clauses
• Independent Clauses - Dependent Clauses - Elementary Grammar Lessons & Tests - My Schoolhouse - Online Learning: [1]