What is an example of an introductory dependent clause?
Introductory clauses are dependent clauses that provide background information or “set the stage” for the main part of the sentence, the independent clause. For example: If they want to win, athletes must exercise every day. Because Smokey kept barking insistently, we threw the ball for him.
Do you put a comma before a dependent clause?
To combine two independent clauses (complete sentences), use a semicolon or a comma and conjunction. To attach a dependent clause, use a comma if it comes before the independent clause; use no comma if it comes after the independent clause, unless it is a “contrast word” (although, though, even though, whereas).
Should there be a comma after an introductory phrase?
When to Use Commas After Introductory Prepositional Phrases. When an introductory prepositional phrase is very short (less than four words), the comma is usually optional. But if the phrase is longer than four words, use a comma.
What is an introductory phrase comma?
Introductory commas come between an initial word, phrase, or dependent clause and the main (independent) clause of a sentence. Their purpose is to signal the end of this introductory material and the arrival of the main subject and verb, helping readers to parse your syntax accurately on the first read.
When to put a comma at the beginning of a sentence?
Commas almost always follow phrases at the beginning of sentences; use the comma to separate the phrase from the independent clause. This means use a comma after a participial phrase, an absolute phrase, an infinitive phrase, and a prepositional phrase. There is some leeway with prepositional phrases.
What are dependent clauses 5 examples?
Examples of Dependent Clauses
- When the president arrives.
- Because I can’t wait for the bus.
- As if he knew what was going to happen.
- Than his sister can.
- If you can work on Sundays.
- Until the sun sets.
- While flowers continue to bloom.
- Whenever you come to visit.
Can a comma separated an independent and dependent clause?
For complex sentences using pattern #3, use commas to separate the dependent clause from the independent clause only if the dependent clause is not essential to the sentence’s meaning. If the dependent clause is essential, do not separate it from the rest of the sentence with commas.
Do clauses need commas?
Use commas after introductory a) clauses, b) phrases, or c) words that come before the main clause. a. Common starter words for introductory clauses that should be followed by a comma include after, although, as, because, if, since, when, while. While I was eating, the cat scratched at the door.
What are 5 examples of introductory?
On a paragraph level, these words and phrases are used to connect large ideas. However, on a sentence level, these words and phrases are also considered to be introductory. Examples: However, On the other hand, Furthermore, Therefore, Thereafter, Consequently, Next, Finally, In conclusion, For example, Ultimately, etc.
What is a dependent clause example sentence?
Damian won’t be able to play in the game because he injured his foot. (Because he injured his foot is a dependent clause. It contains the subject he and the verb injured. The clause does not express a complete thought and cannot stand on its own as a sentence.)
What are the 3 types of dependent clauses?
It must always be accompanied by at least one independent clause. There are three kinds of dependent clauses: noun clauses, adjective clauses, and adverbial clauses.
What clause should be separated by commas?
Use commas to separate independent clauses when they are joined by any of these seven coordinating conjunctions: and, but, for, or, nor, so, yet.
How do you separate a dependent clause?
When the dependent clause begins with a subordinating conjunction (connecting word) and precedes the independent clause, separate the clauses with a comma.
How do you punctuate a dependent clause?
If the dependent clause is first (again, rather like an introduction to the main clause), it is followed by a comma (like in this sentence and the next). If the independent clause comes first, no punctuation separates the two.
How do you use commas in clauses?
USE A COMMA TO SEPARATE INDEPENDENT CLAUSES. Rule: Use a comma before a coordinating conjunction (and, but, yet, so, or nor, for) when it joins two complete ideas (independent clauses). 1. He walked down the street, and then he turned the corner. 2.
How do you use commas?
- Commas (Eight Basic Uses)
- USE A COMMA TO SEPARATE INDEPENDENT CLAUSES.
- USE A COMMA AFTER AN INTRODUCTORY CLAUSE OR PHRASE.
- USE A COMMA BETWEEN ALL ITEMS IN A SERIES.
- USE COMMAS TO SET OFF NONRESTRICTIVE CLAUSES.
- USE A COMMA TO SET OFF APPOSITIVES.
- USE A COMMA TO INDICATE DIRECT ADDRESS.