Key Takeaways
- Coordinate clauses are independent and express a complete thought, while subordinate clauses are dependent and do not express a complete thought.
- Coordinate clauses are joined by coordinating conjunctions, such as For, And, Nor, But, Or, Yet, and So, while subordinate clauses begin with subordinate conjunctions or relative pronouns.
- Subordinate clauses can be categorized into adjective clauses, adverb clauses, and noun clauses based on their functions.
The primary distinction between coordinate and subordinate clauses is their ability to express a complete thought. Coordinate clauses can convey a complete thought, making them independent clauses. Subordinate clauses, on the other hand, cannot convey a complete meaning by themselves, earning them the label of dependent clauses.
What is a Coordinate Clause?
A coordinate clause is one of two or more clauses in a sentence of equal importance, usually joined by a coordinating conjunction. These clauses are syntactically independent of each other. Coordinating conjunctions, such as For, And, Nor, But, Or, Yet, and So, link two independent clauses to form a compound sentence. Examples of sentences with coordinate clauses include:
– I like sandwiches, but my sister likes fish and chips.
– You have to study hard or you will fail the exam.
– Jane went to school and her mother went to work.
– I went to bed early for I had a tiring day.
What is a Subordinate Clause?
A subordinate clause is a clause that begins with a subordinate conjunction or a relative pronoun and contains both a subject and a verb. This type of clause cannot stand alone and does not express a complete meaning; additional details are required to complete the meaning. Subordinate conjunctions, such as Although, Since, After, Why, That, Until, Wherever, and So That, link dependent clauses to independent clauses.
Examples of subordinate clauses include:
– Until Mr. Sanchez returned from Italy
– Whenever she saw me
– After I finished my studies
– As the lights went out
Subordinate clauses can be divided into three types based on their functions: adjective clauses, adverb clauses, and noun clauses. Examples of these types of clauses include:
– Adjective Clause: The boy who won the race received a grand prize.
– Adverb Clause: They stayed at the beach until the sun went down.
– Noun Clause: We have to find out who opened the gate.
What is the Difference Between Coordinate and Subordinate Clause?
The main differences between coordinate and subordinate clauses are:
– Coordinate clauses are independent clauses, while subordinate clauses are dependent clauses.
– Coordinate clauses are combined with other clauses by coordinating conjunctions, while subordinate clauses start with subordinate conjunctions or relative pronouns.
– Two coordinate clauses form a compound sentence, while subordinate clauses typically form complex sentences.
– Coordinate clauses express complete thoughts, while subordinate clauses do not express a complete thought.
Summary – Coordinate vs Subordinate Clause
In summary, the difference between coordinate and subordinate clauses lies in their ability to express a complete thought. Coordinate clauses are independent clauses that can convey a complete thought, while subordinate clauses are dependent clauses that cannot convey a complete meaning on their own.
