What is a Clause?
A clause is a set of semantically arranged words. It has a subject and a predicate. It can take the role of a Part of Speech. That is, it can act as a noun, adjective, or adverb.
Clause Examples:
- I had guessed that he would come today.
“that he would come today” is an example of a clause.
It has a subject > “he“
It has a verb > “would come.“
It acts as a noun. Proof: Guessed what? Answer: “that he would come today.” So this clause is the object of the verb, “guessed.” That is, it is acting as a noun.
- My sister, who is a teacher, is getting married next month.
“who is a teacher” is another example of a clause.
It has a subject > “who“
It has a verb > “is.“
It is modifying a noun phrase, “my sister.” Therefore, it is an adjective.
- When I went there, I saw a beautiful girl.
“When I went there“ is another example of a clause.
It has a subject > “I“.
It has a verb > “went“.
It is acting as an adverb modifying the verb “saw“.
There are two types of clauses.
- Dependent clause, also known as a subordinate clause.
- Independent clause, also known as the main clause.