Subordinate Clause
This is the main clause of the sentence. It contains a subject and a verb but cannot make sense on it's own. Below are several types of subordinate clauses.
Adjective Clause
Acts as an adjective, modifying a noun or pronoun.
Usually begins with a relative pronoun (who, whom, whose, which, that) or a relative adverb (when, where, why).
Examples:
The book that I borrowed was fascinating.
I know a place where we can relax.
Adverb Clause
Acts as an adverb, modifying a verb, adjective, or adverb.
Begins with a subordinating conjunction (although, because, if, when, while, etc.).
Examples:
We stayed inside because it was raining.
He will call me when he arrives.
Noun Clause
Acts as a noun (subject, object, or complement).
Often begins with that, what, whatever, who, whom, whoever, etc.
Examples:
I believe that he will succeed. (Object of "believe")
What she said surprised me. (Subject)
Relative Clause
A type of dependent clause that modifies a noun or pronoun. Relative clauses are often considered a subset of adjective clauses.
Examples:
The woman who called yesterday is my aunt.
This is the house where I grew up.
Conditional Clause
Expresses conditions, often using if or unless.
Examples:
If you study hard, you will pass the exam.
You won’t succeed unless you try.
Comparative Clause
Used to make comparisons. Often introduced by than or as...as.
Examples:
She is taller than he is.
He is not as smart as he thinks.
Elliptical Clause
A clause where some words are omitted but still understood from the context.
Examples:
While [she was] driving, she called me. (Ellipsis of "she was")
He is faster than [I am fast]. (Ellipsis of "I am fast")