Dependent (Subordinate) Clauses
What Is It?
A dependent (subordinate) clause contains a subject and verb but cannot stand alone. It begins with a subordinator: subord + S + V (+ O).
Why Use Dependent Clauses?
- Context — supplies time, reason, or condition.
- Flow — varies sentence length for rhythm.
- Emphasis — foregrounds background info, keeping main idea clear.
When to Choose Dependent Clauses
Technical blogs, whitepapers, unit-test descriptions that explain why or when.
Forming Dependent-Clause Sentences
| Function | Formula | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Time | When + S + V, main | “When tests fail, CI halts.” |
| Reason | Because + S + V, main | “Because data was stale, we reindexed.” |
| Concession | Although + S + V, main | “Although usage spiked, latency held.” |
| Place | Where + S + V, main | “Deploy to the zone where latency is lowest.” |
Tips for Writing with Dependent Clauses
- Lead with the dependent clause to set context quickly.
- Comma-separate when it precedes the main clause.
- Avoid piling multiple dependents before the main idea.
- Ensure each dependent has its own subject and verb.
Exceptions & Nuances
Informal speech may omit the subordinator (“Send fixes ASAP you can”). Keep it in formal prose.