- Definition of a Main Clause
What is a Main Clause?
A main clause is a group of words that make up the major part of a sentence. The main clause has the ability to convey meaning and make complete sense even if taken separately from the sentence, and so, it is also referred to as the independent clause. A subject and a verb are required to form a main clause.
Now, have a look at the definitions provided by various dictionaries to understand clearly what a main clause is.
Definition of a Main Clause
According to the Oxford Learner’s Dictionary, a main clause is defined as “a group of words that includes a subject and a verb and can form a sentence.” A main clause, according to the Cambridge Dictionary, is defined as “a clause in a sentence that would form a complete sentence by itself.”
The Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines a main clause as “a clause that could be used by itself as a simple sentence but that is part of a larger sentence”, and according to the Collins Dictionary, a main clause is defined as “a clause that can stand alone as a complete sentence.”
How to Use a Main Clause in a Sentence? – Rules and Points to Remember
As already discussed, a main clause or an independent clause must contain at least a subject and a verb. It can also have compound subjects. This is the most fundamental rule to be followed when using a main clause. There are some other points you will have to remember when forming and using main clauses in sentences. Take a look at the following points.
- You can form different types of sentences using main clauses.
- A simple sentence can be considered a main clause.
- A compound sentence is formed with two main clauses connected by a coordinating conjunction such as for, and, nor, but, or, yet and so. Conjunctive adverbs like however, meanwhile, in addition to, etc. can also be used to link two main clauses to form a compound sentence.
- A complex sentence is formed with a main clause and a subordinate clause joined by a subordinating conjunction such as when, after, because, since, as, etc. The main clause can be placed in the former or latter part of the sentence.
Difference between a Main Clause and a Subordinate Clause
Learning what makes a main clause different from a subordinate clause will help you understand a lot more clearly how to use them. Take a look at the table given below.
| Main Clause | Subordinate Clause |
| It contains a subject and a verb and can stand alone. | It contains a subject and a verb but cannot stand alone. It merely complements the rest of the sentence. |
| It can be used in a simple sentence, a compound sentence and a complex sentence. | It can be used in a complex sentence and a compound-complex sentence. |
| Coordinating conjunctions and correlative conjunctions can be used to combine main clauses to form compound sentences and subordinating conjunctions can be used to a main clause and a subordinate clause to form a complex sentence. | Subordinating conjunctions can be used to link a subordinate clause and a main clause when forming complex sentences. |
| For example: |
I had tea and chicken samosas.
After I reach home, I will give you a call.
Examples of Main Clauses
Here are a few examples, with main clauses in bold, to show you how they can be used in sentences.
- Usha is a teacher.
- Suresh has been running all around as it is his son’s wedding.
- Though we had no interest in watching a movie, we went along with our friends to the theatre.
- Nobody knows anything about the new neighbour, so we decided to go talk to them.
- After a short break, the New Directions will be performing.
- In today’s event, the final dance by the Loyola Dance Crew will be the highlight of the entire event.
- My brother is not keeping well, so my father is taking him to the doctor.
- I am sure my team will win as they have been practising for months.
- Even after hours of explanation, the students were not able to understand the mathematical theorems.
- She does not think she can make it here in time; however, she told me she will come.
Check Your Understanding of Main Clauses
Identify the main clause in the following sentences:
1. ’The Jungle Book’, written by Rudyard Kipling, is one of the most enjoyed story collections.
2. The little girl was crying because she lost her favourite doll.
3. Carry a shawl or a sweater with you, so you can use it in case you feel cold.
4. If you think it will rain, it is better to carry an umbrella.
5. The boy, who helped me unload my luggage, lives in the next street.
6. I love listening to songs, but that does not mean I like all songs.
7. I am on the right track.
8. Thomas lives in the city.
9. I will help you find a taxi or I will come drop you at the bus stand.
10. Soumia didn’t go to college yesterday, for she was unwell.
Now, check if you have identified the main clauses accurately from the answers given below.
1. ’The Jungle Book’, written by Rudyard Kipling, is one of the most enjoyed story collections.
2. The little girl was crying because she lost her favourite doll.
3. I am feeling a bit under the weather today, so I don’t think I’ll be going out.
4. If you think it will rain, it is better to carry an umbrella.
5. The boy, who helped me unload my luggage, lives in the next street.
6. I love listening to songs, but that does not mean I like all songs.
7. I am on the right track.
8. Thomas lives in the city.
9. I will help you find a taxi or I will come drop you at the bus stand.
10. Soumia didn’t go to college yesterday, for she was unwell.
Frequently Asked Questions on Main Clauses in English Grammar
What is the main clause?
A main clause is a group of words that make up the major part of a sentence. The main clause has the ability to convey meaning and make complete sense even if taken separately from the sentence, and so, it is also referred to as the independent clause. A subject and a verb are required to form a main clause.
What is the definition of a main clause?
According to the Oxford Learner’s Dictionary, a main clause is defined as “a group of words that includes a subject and a verb and can form a sentence.” A main clause, according to the Cambridge Dictionary, is defined as “a clause in a sentence that would form a complete sentence by itself.” The Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines a main clause as “a clause that could be used by itself as a simple sentence but that is part of a larger sentence”, and according to the Collins Dictionary, a main clause is defined as “a clause that can stand alone as a complete sentence.”
What is the difference between a main clause and a subordinate clause?
The main difference between a main clause and a subordinate clause is that a main clause can stand by itself and make sense if separated from the rest of the sentence; whereas, a subordinate clause cannot stand alone.
Give some examples of main clauses.
Here are a few examples to show you how you can use a main clause in a sentence.
- Though we had no interest in watching a movie, we went along with our friends to the theatre.
- Nobody knows anything about the new neighbour, so we decided to go talk to them.
- After a short break, the New Directions will be performing.
- In today’s event, the final dance by the Loyola Dance Crew will be the highlight of the entire event.
- Even after hours of explanation, the students were not able to understand the mathematical theorems.
