Page 31 - English Grammar - 8

Let’s Learn Types of Dependent Clauses

There are three main types of dependent clauses, categorised according to their function in
a sentence.
Noun Clause Adverb Clause Adjective Clause
O O O

Noun Clause

A noun clause functions as a noun. It can be a subject, an object (direct or indirect), a subject
complement or an object of a preposition. It may start with a wh-word like what, who,
which, when, where or why. It may even start with that or how. For example:
He knows that the earth moves around the sun. (direct object of know)
O
My only worry is that they won’t be here in time. (subject complement)
O
Whoever is a habitual liar thinks everyone else is lying. (subject)
O
I am highly impressed with what he has done. (object of the preposition with)
O
In the above sentences, all the highlighted groups of words are noun clauses.

Practice Time 1

Underline the noun clauses in the following sentences and state whether they are the subject,
object of the verb or object of the preposition.
1. “Give me your unwavering promise,” the General said. _______________
2. That the rats are a menace is known to all. _______________

3. I have no idea what he is thinking of. _______________
4. They asked if we needed any help. _______________
5. Frankly, I did not expect what I had got. _______________

Adverb Clause

An adverb clause is a group of words that functions as an adverb. It modifies a verb, an
adverb or adjective and answers the questions when, where, why, and how. It begins with

a subordinating conjunction such as after, if, because, in case, until, where, since, unless, as
if or although. It can be used to state a time, a place, a condition, a frequency or something
related to the independent clause. For example:
Tina polished the brass vessel until it shone like gold.
O
The thieves ran away once they saw the police van coming.
O
Unless you run fast, you will miss the bus.
O
The medical store is kept open 24 hours, in case an emergency arises. Clauses
O
In the above sentences, all the highlighted groups of words are adverb clauses.
There are different kinds of adverb clauses.

Manner Time Comparison
O O O
Place Reason
O O

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