A dependent clause is also known as a subordinate clause, meaning that it is less important than the sentence's main (independent) clause.
A dependent clause begins with a subordinating conjunction. The most common subordinating conjunctions (SWABIs) include Since, When, After, Because, and If. Subordinating conjunctions indicate the relationship of the subordinate (dependent) clause to the main (independent) clause.
since the tiger growled
when it is hot outside
after we ran
because I enjoy the beach
if I am correct
although the test was difficult
Because: A dependent clause that starts with "because" states the cause of the idea in the independent clause.
I am now afraid of bears because I almost got eaten by one.
Because I almost got eaten by a bear, I am now afraid of bears.
Although: A dependent clause that starts with "although" contrasts with the independent clause. The subordinating conjunction "even though" also indicates contrast.
I was terrified when I saw the bear although it didn't attack us.
Although the bear didn't attack us, I was terrified when I saw it.
Since: A dependent clause that starts with "since" or "ever since" indicates when the idea in the independent clause became true.
I have been afraid of bears since we saw the bear in the forest.
Since we saw the bear in the forest, I have been afraid of bears.
When, After, Before: A dependent clause that starts with these terms indicates when the event in the independent clause occurred.
We ran out of the forest when we saw the bear.
When we saw the bear, we ran out of the forest.
If: A dependent clause that starts with "if" gives a condition that makes the idea in the independent clause true.
Maybe I will be less afraid next time I see a bear if I learn enough about them.
If I learn enough about bears, maybe I will be less afraid next time I see one.