An independent clause is a group of words that contains a subject and a verb and expresses a complete thought. It can stand alone as a sentence.
A dependent clause, on the other hand, also contains a subject and a verb but does not express a complete thought. It cannot stand alone as a sentence and is often introduced by subordinating conjunctions (like "because," "although," "if," etc.).
Examples of Independent Clauses:
- She enjoys reading mystery novels.
- The sun set behind the mountains.
Examples of Dependent Clauses:
- Although she was tired, she finished her homework.
- When the rain stopped, we went for a walk.