Revising subordinate clause fragments
A subordinate clause is patterned like a sentence, with both a subject and a verb, but it begins with a word that marks it as subordinate. The following words commonly introduce subordinate clauses.
|
after |
before |
so that |
until |
while |
|
although |
even though |
than |
when |
who |
|
as |
how |
that |
where |
whom |
|
as if |
if |
though |
whether |
whose |
|
because |
since |
unless |
which |
why |
Subordinate clauses function within sentences as adjectives, as adverbs, or as nouns. They cannot stand alone.
Most fragmented clauses beg to be pulled into a sentence nearby.
Because introduces a subordinate clause, so it cannot stand alone.
Although introduces a subordinate clause, so it cannot stand alone.
If a fragmented clause cannot be attached to a nearby sentence or if you feel that attaching it would be awkward, try turning the clause into a sentence. The simplest way to do this is to delete the opening word or words that mark it as subordinate.
