A clause is a segment of speech larger than a phrase and having a finite verb (verb with tense)

Sentences are comprised of clauses. Sentences may be classified according to the clauses that form them.

An independent clause is able to stand on its own (meaningfully) in a sentence.

e.g. Kioko came. Kioko sat down

                S         V         S      V      A

 

The above sentences can be considered to have two independent clauses.

We can join the two sentences using a coordinating conjunction.

Kioko came and sat down.

In the second clause, the subject ‘Kioko’ is not to be unnecessarily repeated.

 

The dependent (subordinate) clauses cannot stand on its own (meaningfully) in a sentence.

e.g. Nelly sat   where the books had been kept

      Independent         subordinate .c.

 

      He saw the man   who abducted the girl.

      Main clause         dependent clause

 

      If you work hard,             you will pass in exams.

      Dependent (subordinate)           independent

 

The first example has the subordinate clause acting as an adverb.

In the second sentence, the dependent clause is introduced by a relative pronoun and it is an adjectival clause.

In the third sentence, the subordinate clause is a conditional (if clause).