Independent clause

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In traditional grammar, an independent clause (or main clause) is a

Independent clauses can be joined by using a semicolon or by using a comma followed by a coordinating conjunction (and, but, for, or, nor, so, yet, etc.).

Examples

In the following example sentences, independent clauses are underlined, and conjunctions are in bold.

Single independent clauses:

• I have enough money to buy an ice cream cone.
• My favourite flavour is chocolate.
• Let's go to the shop.

Multiple independent clauses:

• I have enough money to buy an ice cream cone; my favourite flavour is chocolate.
• I have enough money to buy an ice cream cone, so let's go to the shop.

See also

• Comma splice
• Conditional sentence
• Dependent clause
• Relative clause
• Run-on sentence
• Sentence clause structure

References

• Rozakis, Laurie (2003). The Complete Idiot's Guide to Grammar and Style. Alpha. p. 152.
  ISBN 1-59257-115-8
  .

• Clauses: Independent, The Tongue Untied
• Clauses, Online Writing Lab
• Independent & Dependent Clauses, My Schoolhouse

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