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What is a Sentence Fragment and How to Avoid it

A man labeled sentence fragment is being left behind by two women labeled as verb and subject.

Main Sentence Fragment Takeaways:

  • When a group of words doesn’t form a complete thought, that’s a sentence fragment.
  • Fragments are often missing a subject or verb.
  • Even though some fragments have punctuation, they are still incomplete sentences.
  • Since dependent clauses can’t stand on their own, they are a type of sentence fragment.
  • Since independent clauses are complete sentences, they are not fragments.
  • Watch out for participle phrases and appositives when you create sentences.
  • Easily fix a fragment by revising your words to include a missing subject or verb. Or, you can attach the fragment to an existing complete sentence.

You can’t tell half a story without annoying someone. In the same way, nor can you write half a sentence. First, we’ll look at the sentence fragment definition and the types of fragments. Then, we’ll show you how to spot them with sentence fragment examples as well as the easiest ways to fix fragments fast.

A man labeled sentence fragment is being left behind by two women labeled as verb and subject.
A sentence fragment occurs when your sentence lacks a subject, verb, or complete thought.

What is a Sentence Fragment?

A sentence fragment is a group of words that look like a sentence but is not. It is missing an element like a subject or a verb, making it incomplete. A sentence fragment may be punctuated to look like a complete sentence, but it doesn’t express a complete thought and can’t stand on its own. Consider the sample clauses and sentences below:

Loves to take a nap every day.
Frank loves to take a nap every day.
After work, Frank napping.
After work.
After work, Frank enjoys napping.

There are two types of sentence fragments: a missing-subject fragment and a missing-verb fragment. A missing-subject fragment is a group of words without a main subject. For example, “ran for president” instead of “Carl ran for president”. Similarly, a missing-verb fragment is a group of words that lacks averb. For instance, “Georgia on the shore” instead of “Georgia is on the shore”. Here are more examples:

(missing-subject fragment)Was taken for granted.
His effort was taken for granted.
(missing-subject fragment)Ran outside the house.
The boy ran outside the house.
(missing-verb fragment)My cousin the song beautifully.
My cousin sang the song beautifully.
(missing-verb fragment) Clothes of all kinds scattered everywhere.
Clothes of all kinds were scattered everywhere.

Two Types of Fragments:

  1. Missing-subject fragment: a group of words without a subject
  2. Missing-verb fragment: a group of words without a verb

What is a Fragment Missing?

A fragment is missing a subject or a verb. As a result, fragments fail to form a complete thought. For example, a missing-subject fragment is a group of words without a main subject (“ran for president” instead of “Carl ran for president“). Similarly, a missing-verb fragment is a group of words that lacks a verb (“Georgia on the shore” instead of “Georgia is on the shore“).

📝 Two Types of Fragments:

  1. Missing-subject fragment: a group of words without a subject
  2. Missing-verb fragment: a group of words without a verb

What is an Example of a Sentence Fragment?

An example of a sentence fragment is “took Chris’ bike” because it doesn’t form a complete thought. When you say this, your audience is left wondering what you truly mean. What’s more, it’s missing a verb (fragments are often missing a subject or a verb). Here’s another example:

Sentence fragment:Than her sister ate

Whose sister are we referencing? Why was the word ‘than’ included?

Let’s revise this fragment and make it correct:

Ellie devoured 5 more pieces of candy than her sister ate.
Ellie only had a bite of macaroni, but it was still more than her sister ate.
Ellie’s sister ate more than her.

How Do You Fix a Sentence Fragment?

There are three main ways to fix a fragment by turning it into a complete sentence. First, try adding the missing subject or verb (Someone tookChris’ bike.). Next, try combining it with or attaching it to a complete sentence (We still aren’t sure who took Chris’ bike).

📝 How to Fix a Sentence Fragment:

  1. Add the missing subject or verb
  2. Combine it with a complete sentence
  3. Attach it to a complete sentence

Sentence fragments occur commonly in blog posts and casual conversations. Unfortunately, they aren’t grammatically correct and can confuse others. Make sure your audience knows exactly what you mean by avoiding fragmented sentences.

Here are additional examples of sentence fragments and how to fix them:

Ari work.
Ari stopped by the grocery store on his way home from work.
Because of school.
Because of school rules, I wasn’t able to watch your team practice before the big game.
Such as red or purple.
We associate colors such as red and purple with royalty.
Before bed Celine likes to.
Before bed, Celine likes to wash her face with warm water.
📝 You can identify a sentence fragment by looking for a missing subject or verb.

What are the Four Types of Fragments?

There are actually more than four types of fragments. Types of sentence fragments include dependent or subordinate clause, participle phrase, infinitive, afterthought, lonely verb (missing-verb fragment), and appositive. All of these are types of fragments because they fail to express a complete thought despite containing punctuation, a subject, and a verb.

📝 Examples of Types of Sentence Fragments:

  • Lonely verb (missing-subject fragment)
  • Infinitive
  • Participle phrase
  • Dependent/subordinate clause
  • Appositive
  • Afterthought

Lonely Verb Fragmented Sentences

Lonely verb fragments have this name because they are a phrase without a subject. In other words, the subject is missing and as a result, the verb is alone. Since complete sentences express a complete thought as well as have a subject and a verb, missing-subject fragments can’t be complete sentences.

Makena spicy food.

How to fix it:

Makena doesn’t eat spicy food.

Participle Fragments

Usually, you can easily spot a participle phrase because they tend to begin with a word that ends in –ing (gerund) or –ed (participle). We consider these fragments because they don’t express a complete thought, either.

Carrying a pitcher of water .

How to fix it:

Her niece walked carefully into the dining room carrying a pitcher of water.

Dependent/Subordinate Clauses

Subordinate clauses are also called dependent clauses because they can’t stand on their own without an independent clause to give them meaning. Even though they contain a subject, a verb, and a subordinating conjunction, they are not considered complete sentences because they don’t express complete thoughts.

Since it was raining.

How to fix it:

Since it was raining, she decided not to walk to the park.

Appositive Fragments

These types of fragmented sentences rename the noun, or describe it using different words and characteristics. Because their main function is to help provide additional detail and clarity, they can’t stand on their own as a main or complete thought.

A woman who adores the ballet.

How to fix it:

Ms. Lagard, a woman who adores the ballet, will meet us at the theater.

Infinitive Fragments

This type of phrase begins with the infinitive form of a verb. Since all infinitives in English take the form to + infinitive verb (to think), infinitive phrases and fragments begin with the word to.

To run through an open field.

How to fix it:

To run through an open field is one of the most exhilarating feelings.

Afterthought Fragments

This type of incomplete sentence usually begins with a transition word like one of the following: for instance, for example, except, such as, like. They are not complete thoughts because they tend to add more detail to something the author said previously, or add something that the speaker forgot to include.

Karen can’t stand when people ignore her advice. Especially not when she takes the time to call you out personally.

How to fix it:

Karen can’t stand when people ignore her, and especiallynot when she takes the time to call you out personally.
A checklist to know if you have a sentence fragment.
Phrases are often considered fragments because they lack one or all the following: subject, verb, or complete thought.

Is a Sentence Fragment a Dependent Clause?

Many fragmented sentences are dependent clauses. A dependent clause is a clause that cannot function without an independent clause. An independent clause can stand alone.

Because he can’t handle the bus
Than her brother does
While grass keeps growing

The examples above are incomplete sentences because they need independent clauses. That’s why they are dependent clauses and sentence fragments.

How Do You Know if a Sentence is a Fragment?

You know a sentence is a fragment when it doesn’t express a complete thought. Often, phrases are fragments because they don’t contain a subject or a verb. However, even if the fragmented sentence contains a subject and a verb, it can’t be a complete sentence if it doesn’t express a complete thought (the fragment “Kids cleaning downstairs” instead of the complete sentence “I think the kids are cleaning the floors downstairs“).

👀 How to Spot a Fragmented Sentence: If your sentence has one of the following, it may be a fragment.

  1. The verb is missing
  2. The subject is missing
  3. The sentence begins with a participle phrase
  4. There’s a dependent clause
  5. There’s an appositive

1. Check Your Verb

Does your sentence have a verb? If yes, is the verb the correct tense?

A sentence fragment often contains no verb. When a fragment does have a verb, the verb is often used incorrectly.

2. Identify Your Subject

Who or what is the subject of your sentence? Can your audience easily identify this subject, or is it implied?

A correctly formatted sentence needs a clear subject. Your readers should know what you’re referencing without searching for contextual clues.

3. Look for Participle Phrases

A sentence should not begin with a participle phrase. A participle phrase is a verb that ends in -ed or -ing.

Jumping across the driveway.

4. Watch out for Dependent Clauses

A dependent or subordinate clause cannot stand on its own. A sentence that begins with a subordinator, such as while or because, might be a fragment. You should also watch for sentences that begin with relative pronouns, such as when or that.

While they shop.
That idea.

5. Avoid Appositives

Appositives are noun phrases that follow a previous sentence. An appositive describes a noun or pronoun that was mentioned in an earlier conversation or paragraph.

The most handsome man at work.

Is Stop a Fragment?

Stop is not a sentence fragment. This might be confusing since sentence fragments are usually incomplete thoughts that are missing a subject or a verb; the command “stop” might seem like a verb without a subject. However, the subject is actually implied or understood, meaning it’s contained in the way we form the verb. Therefore, “stop” is not a fragment because it expresses a complete thought and an implied subject as well as contains a verb.

For example, imagine you are sitting on a train and there is a small boy in the seat behind you. The child keeps kicking your chair and disturbing you.

Then, you turn around and say, “Please stop.” It’s understood that you’re referring to the boy (subject) and requesting that he cease kicking (complete thought).

Is a Question a Fragment?

A question can be a fragment, but this isn’t always the case. A sentence fragment is a group of words that fails to express a complete thought. Often, this is because the phrase doesn’t contain a subject or verb. A fragment might look like a sentence because it contains punctuation like a question mark (?) or exclamation point (!). Even still, if it doesn’t express a complete thought, it’s a fragment (the fragment “By the door?” versus the complete sentence “Should I leave these by the door?“).

What is an Intentional Fragment?

An intentional fragment is a phrase the author deliberately chose not to completenotwithstanding the grammatical error. In other words, the author intended to write an incomplete sentence. Like all fragments, an intentional fragment is a group of words that doesn’t express a complete thought. Intentional fragments are a conscious (or intentional) stylistic choice rather than an accidental grammatical error.

You may see intentional fragments in creative writing like plays, novels, and poems. Or, in casual everyday conversations and informal writing like texts (or like this sentence and the last one 😉).

What Causes a Sentence Fragment?

A sentence fragment occurs when your thought is not complete. Your sentence may lack a verb, subject, or both. Many writers and readers think of verbs as action words. However, verbs can also join together other parts of a sentence. These verbs are called helping verbs.

If your sentence requires a helping verb, you must add one. Otherwise, your sentence is not a complete thought.

Edith was working on her homework.
Edith working on her homework.

How Well do you Know Sentence Fragments? Take our Quiz Below!

Sentence Fragment Question #1

Which of these is FALSE about a sentence fragment?
Correct! Wrong!

The answer is B. Independent clauses can exist on their own, but sentence fragments can’t.

Sentence Fragments Question #2

Which of these is NOT a sentence fragment?
Correct! Wrong!

The answer is C. This sentence expresses a complete thought.

Fragmented Sentence Question #3

Many sentence fragments are dependent clauses.
Correct! Wrong!

The answer is TRUE. A dependent clause is a clause that cannot function without an independent clause.

Sentence Fragments Question #4

Which of these tips can help correct sentence fragments?
Correct! Wrong!

The answer is D. You could also look out for participle phrases and dependent clauses.

Sentence Fragment Question #5

Following is a type of sentence fragment
Correct! Wrong!

The answer is D. Other types of sentence fragments include dependent or subordinate clauses, lonely verbs (missing-verb fragments), and appositives.

Fragmented Sentence Question #6

“Stop” is a sentence fragment.
Correct! Wrong!

The answer is FALSE. “Stop” is not a fragment because it expresses a complete thought. It also has an implied subject and contains a verb.

Sentence Fragment Quiz Result
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Expert!

Not bad!

Not bad!

Almost got it! Review the article and try again.

Almost got it! Review the article and try again.

Read More: Getting to the Bottom of Get Got Gotten

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What is an Oxford Comma? How to Use it

The Oxford comma has been the crux of multi-million dollar lawsuits against many companies.

Main Oxford Comma Takeaways:

  • The Oxford comma is the final comma in a serial list, used just before the conjunction.
  • It’s also known as a serial or terminal comma.
  • The Chicago Manual of Style says to always use the Oxford comma.
  • The AP Stylebook says not to use it unless necessary for clarity.

The Oxford comma is one of grammar’s biggest ongoing debates. This controversial punctuation mark, which separates the penultimate item in a written list from the conjunction, has left many grammarians disagreeing over its use. In this post we will discuss what an Oxford comma or serial comma really is, the rules around its usage, and when not to use it.

The Oxford comma has been the crux of multi-million dollar lawsuits against many companies.
You may not be aware of it but the Oxford comma is so important that it became the crux of many multi-million dollar lawsuits against big companies.

What is an Oxford Comma?

An Oxfordcomma or serial comma is the final comma normally used in a list of three or more items. Sometimes, grammarians also refer to it as a terminal comma.

The recipe called for some unusual ingredients, such as squid ink pasta, dry vermouth, and tomato purée.

In the example above, the terminal comma is the comma that follows dry vermouth which is the comma before the conjunction and.

Technically, using an Oxford comma is optional in American English. That’s because it’s use is stylistic and not grammatical. Meaning, you can use it depending on the style guide that you’re following. The AP Style guide — the one followed by most newspapers — doesn’t require the use of an Oxford comma.

Now, before we explore this controversial comma further, let’s first understand what a comma truly is.

What is the Difference Between an Oxford Comma and a Regular Comma?

A comma is a mark of punctuation that writers use to indicate divisions in sentences. For instance, when setting off words, phrases, or clauses that require a slight pause. Aside from letting your readers know when to pause and take a breath, commas also give order to the sequential elements of your sentence. Technically, the Oxford comma is no different since it’s still a comma. However, unlike the regular comma that holds grammatical significance, the use of an Oxford or serial comma is a stylistic choice.

Other Uses:

When writing out dates in month-day-year format, commas are typically used to set off the date. Commas can also be used when expressing large numbers, breaking them into three-digit blocks, so they’re easier to read.

Although a comma can add structure and clarity to a sentence, it’s one of the most misused and misunderstood forms of punctuation. Thankfully, there are some basic rules to help you understand when to use a comma.

The AP Style guide doesn't require the Oxford comma's use, as opposed to the Chicago Manual Style, that encourages the use of the said punctuation.
The AP Style guide doesn’t require the Oxford comma’s use, as opposed to the Chicago Manual Style, that encourages the use of the said punctuation.

Why is the Oxford Comma Important?

It might seem hard to believe, but the placement of a simple comma can alter the meaning of a sentence. By using a serial comma in lists, you can potentially avoid misreadings and misunderstandings.

Consider this sentence:

Yesterday, Peterwent to lunch with his roommates, Stephen King and a world-famous cat trainer.

Written this way, you could infer that Peter’s roommates are actually Stephen King and a world-famous cat trainer. By adding a terminal comma, the sentence becomes clearer.

Peter went to lunch with his roommates,Stephen King, and a world-famous cat trainer.

In this second example, there’s no confusion. We now understand that Peter isn’t rooming with the king of horror and the bearer of many scars. He’s just inviting them to join him and his roommates for lunch.

Drivers for Oakhurst Dairy won a legal battle against the company in 2017 due to Oxford comma omission. The company argued it shouldn’t pay these drivers overtime, but employees said a missing comma made guidelines confusing.

Not all grammarians are a fan of the controversial oxford comma.
Not all grammarians are a fan of the controversial oxford comma.

Are Oxford Commas Grammatically Correct?

Whether or not to include a serial comma is more of a stylistic choice. Some might say that Oxford commas are grammatically optional. If you’re writing for a company or organization, the using a serial comma likely depends on the style guide you’re following. For example, AP Stylebook doesn’t use the Oxford comma unless it’s absolutely essential to preserve a sentence’s meaning. On the other hand, The Chicago Manual of Style advocates for always using a serial comma. If you’re your own boss, then the ultimate comma decision rests entirely with you.

Although some people wonder if Oxford commas are grammatically correct, the answer isn’t black and white.

Why Shouldn’t You Use the Oxford Comma?

Over the years, the Oxford or serial comma has had more than its fair share of detractors, many fighting fiercely against its use.

Although some grammarians believe that it can provide much-needed clarity in a written list, others argue that it’s better to just restructure the sentence.

Using the example from the last section, the sentence could easily be rewritten to clarify its meaning.

Peter went to lunch with his roommates, as well as Stephen King and a world-famous cat trainer.

With a small change of wording, the sentence becomes less confusing. This approach argues that the Oxford comma is a lazy way of solving a problem and renders it unnecessary.

Don't be a monster, use an Oxford comma!
Don’t be a monster, use an Oxford comma!

Serial Comma Meets Social Media

In 2003, Eats, Shoots & Leaves by Lynne Truss hit bookstore shelves in the United Kingdom. By 2004, it was a hit in the United States, as well.

The book title’s clever play on words and amusing panda-themed cover illustration introduced the public to the intricacies of the Oxford comma.

Ever since, people have been exploring the humorous ways that this tiny punctuation mark can change a sentence’s entire meaning.

Many examples have even found their way onto social media platforms, such as Facebook and Twitter, through memes. This viral content pairs eye-catching visuals with verbal concepts to make a statement or point. In the case of the serial comma, it’s often used to make a joke about bad punctuation.

Since its origin at the Oxford University Press, the Oxford comma has been a source of ongoing controversy. For more than a century, grammarians have argued about whether this comma is essential or should be abandoned to the annals of history.

Proponents believe that this serial comma, which belongs after the penultimate item in a list, is necessary for clarity. Detractors think it represents nothing more than an excuse for lazy writing.

Ultimately, whether they love or hate the Oxford comma, there’s one thing people generally agree on. If you’re going to use this oft-debated punctuation mark, use it consistently or not at all.

Oxford Comma Quick Grammar Quiz

Question #1

An Oxford comma is also known as a:

Please select 2 correct answers

Correct! Wrong!

The answers are A and C. The Oxford comma is also known as the serial or terminal comma.

Question #2

Oxford commas can separate clauses and ideas.
Correct! Wrong!

The answer is FALSE. An Oxford comma refers to the final comma in a list of three or more things.

Question #3

Identify the terminal comma in this sentence: I bought apples, oranges, strawberries, and bananas
Correct! Wrong!

The answer is C. A serial comma goes after the penultimate item on the list.

Question #4

Which style guide recommends always using the Oxford comma?
Correct! Wrong!

The answer is A. The Chicago Manual of Style advocates its use.

Read More: When To Use Comma Before Such As: The Definitive Guide

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What is Verbiage? Definition and Sample Sentences

A curly-haired young man holding a long piece of paper. He looks confuse while reading its content.

Main Verbiage Takeaways:

  • Verbiage is a noun with a negative connotation. It’s another word for excessive wordiness.
  • This word often appears with the word excessive (“excessive verbiage“).
  • Verbiage is the opposite of conciseness.
  • When someone uses overly complicated words and phrases but doesn’t actually say much, that person uses a lot of verbiage.
  • Verbiage is correct. Conversely, verbage is incorrect.
  • Synonyms include circumlocution, pleonasm, verbosity, and long-windedness.

Sometimes it can be hard to find the right words; sometimes, you find too many. In the second instance, you might be guilty of verbiage. In this guide, we’ll explore the word verbiage — and we’ll tackle a common misspelling of the term. By the time you reach the end of this article, you’ll be a bona fide prolixity buff.

A curly-haired young man holding a long piece of paper. He looks confuse while reading its content.
Verbiage is the opposite of conciseness in writing. Verbiage occurs when a writer uses an excessive amount of technical words or overly complex phrases.

What is Verbiage in Writing?

Verbiage in writing means an excessive amount of technical words or overly complex phrasing. In this way, verbiage and conciseness are opposites. Verbiage can also mean expressive lingo or jargon. Or, refer to a person’s style of speaking. For example, purple prose is a type of verbiage. For logical arguments, there are four types of verbiage: Discount, Repetition, Assurances, and Hedge.

Cut all unnecessaryverbiageout of your news editorial for the March edition, please.
Why do you insist on always using so much unnecessary verbiage! Speak plainly, for once!
Civil language swiftly descended into offensiveverbiage.
Need an example ofverbiagein action? Look no further than thefilibuster.
We can trace the origins of the word verbiage back to werbler,which means “to trill” or “to twitter” in Old French. Werbler later morphed into the Middle French word verbier, which then became verbiage.

Is Verbiage Singular or Plural?

The plural form of the word “verbiage” should also be “verbiage” in the most commonly used context. That’s because native English speakers and writers use the word “verbiage” as a mass noun — or an uncountable noun. As such, it lacks a plural in ordinary usage and is not used with the indefinite article. 

Similar examples of uncountable nouns include music, information, power, and water. So, saying “news stories about technology are full ofverbiage”makes as much sense as “news stories about technology are often full ofinformations.”

With that said, the plural form of “verbiage” can also be verbiages in a more specific context. For example, you can use the plural form in reference to “various types of verbiages” or “a collection of verbiages.”

How Do I Use Verbiage in a Sentence?

Here are examples of how to use verbiage in a sentence:

Carl decided to view the text event log, and he found itsverbiageinteresting.
Open up your thesaurus, and you’ll find a list of synonyms forverbiage.
He tried to remember theverbiagein the window installation instructions.
News stories about technology are often full ofverbiage.

How to Pronounce Verbiage

In American English: VER-bee-edge

  1. VER – as in “vermin.” The emphasis goes on this first syllable.
  2. bee – as in the insect, or “honey bee“.
  3. edge – as in “the edge of a cliff“

In British English: Vuh-BEE-uhj

  1. Vuh – as in “love.” The emphasis goes on this first syllable.
  2. bee- as in the insect, or “honey bee“.
  3. uhj – like a softer “edge” as in “message“
A man's head. He appears to be talking nonsense.
Excessive verbiage may sound nice, but the information is unnecessary.

What is Excessive Verbiage?

Excessive verbiage is a word, phrase, or statement that adds nothing to your argument. It may sound nice or appropriate but the information is actually superfluous. Always aim to eliminate excess verbiage to be as concise as possible. This helps make your argument clear, and in turn, easier for your audience to follow and consider.

What is an Example of Verbiage?

Verbose writers use a lot of text to describe simple things. Some authors get away with verbiage: WilliamShakespeare, for example, wrote notoriously wordy plays. Take this quotation, for example, where Polonius tells his daughter Ophelia to stop seeing Hamlet:

“I would not, in plain terms, from this time forth,

Have you so slander any moment leisure,

As to give words or talk with the Lord Hamlet.”

Unless you’re The Bard of Avon, it’s better to err on the side of caution.

Is Verbage a Word?

Verbage is a word, but it is not a standard word with clear origins. For example, verbage is probably a portmanteau, or a mashup, of verbiage and garbage. It may appear as a rare alternative spelling for verbiage. Or, some may mistakenly use verbiage and verbage interchangeably. Nevertheless, both words have similar meanings as well as negative connotations. However, verbiage is the most correct version.

She read the science quiz text but didn’t understand all the technicalverbage.
“I want to play soccer, not studyverbage!” said Ralph to his English teacher.

What is Correct: Verbage or Verbiage?

Verbiage is the correct word, not verbage. Both words refer to the excessive use of unnecessary words or complicated phrasing. Both words carry negative connotations. However, verbiage is the most correct spelling while verbage is a non-standard word that is probably a fusion of verbiageand garbage.

The wordverbiageis anounrather than averb.
“Lessverbageand more news this March, please,” said David.
Theverbageon this form is confusing me.
In the right context, technicalverbiagecan enhance understanding.
Filled with irritating euphemisms, connotation andverbiage, the text annoyed him.
Verbiage refers to the excessive use of words or technical expressions. An image of a seemingly disappointed professor reading through his student's coursework assignment.
Eliminating verbiage can make your content clearer and easier to follow.

What is an Antonym for Verbiage?

Words that are opposite in meaning to verbiage are conciseness, directness, terseness, plainness, and straightforwardness. Other antonyms include: 

  • Brevity
  • Briefness
  • Compactness
  • Crispness
  • Pithiness
  • Succinctness
  • Terseness 
  • Compression

What is Another Word for Verbiage?

Another word for verbiageis verbosity. Other synonyms for the word verbiage include circumlocution, expansiveness, long-windedness, floridity, loquacity, periphrasis, pleonasm, and prolixity.

Here are examples that use verbiage synonyms:

“I think he might be practicing for thecircumlocutionchampionships,” said Dad, noting Charlie’s long-windedness.
She thoughtpleonasmmade her writing sound more intelligent, but readers actually found her paper interminable.
When she didn’t return his call, he wondered what it meant. Had hiswordinessput her off him?
“That’s not poetry — that’s just mindlessverbosity!” she exclaimed.
Thefloridityof Hemingway’s language inspired both praise and criticism.

Now you know the definition of the word verbiage, and you’re familiar with all its most common synonyms. You know why it’s important to avoid excessive wordage and when to use appropriate technical jargon. Great! Go forth and conquer the writing world, verbiage whiz!

Take This Quiz to Know how Well you Know Verbiage

Verbiage Means Question #1

Which of these statements is TRUE about “verbiage”?
Correct! Wrong!

The answer is D. “Verbiage” is a profusion of words. But it can also mean expressive lingo or jargon.

Verbiage Question #2

Which of these is NOT a synonym for “verbiage”?
Correct! Wrong!

The answer is B. “Verbage” and “verbiage” don't have the same meaning. “Verbage” is most likely a fusion of verbiage and garbage.

Verbiage Definition Question #3

Which of the following is not a type of verbiage?
Correct! Wrong!

The answer is B. For logical arguments, there are four types of verbiage: Discount, Repetition, Assurances, and Hedge.

Verbiage Question #4

Using excess verbiage in a writing can help make your argument clear.
Correct! Wrong!

The answer is FALSE. Excessive verbiage consists of words, phrases, or statements that add nothing to your argument.

Define Verbiage Question #5

“Circumlocution” is another word for “verbiage.”
Correct! Wrong!

The answer is TRUE. Circumlocution means the use of many words when few would do.

Verbiage Quiz Result
Expert!

Expert!

Not bad!

Not bad!

Almost got it! Review the article and try again.

Almost got it! Review the article and try again.

Read More: Someone Called You Facetious? Find Out What It Means Here

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Subordinate Clause: Rules, Definition, and Examples

A queen labeled as main clause knighting a young man on his knees labeled as subordinate clause.

Main Subordinate Clause Takeaways:

  • A subordinate clause contains a noun and a verb.
  • This type of clause is also called a dependent clause since it doesn’t make sense by itself.
  • One easy trick for remembering the difference is to look at the prefix (“sub” means under or below).
  • On the other hand, independent clauses do make sense by themselves. In fact, they work as stand-alone sentences (not “sub” or below any other clause).
  • As a part of speech, subordinate clauses can be nouns, adverbs, and adjectives.
  • Subordinating conjunctions connect subordinate clauses with main clauses. Examples include because, while, and although.
  • You can start a sentence with a subordinating clause.

In this guide, we’ll dive into just one type of clause: the subordinate clause.

A queen labeled as main clause knighting a young man on his knees labeled as subordinate clause.
A subordinate clause needs another clause to make sense. It can’t stand alone as a complete sentence.

What is a Subordinate Clause?

A subordinate clause, also known as a dependent clause, relies on the main clause to have meaning. While it contains a subject and a verb, it can not stand alone as a complete sentence. Simply put, the main clause can make sense or be considered a complete sentence without another clause. Meanwhile, a subordinate clause will not make sense without the main clause.

What is an Example of a Subordinate Clause?

Here are more subordinate clause examples:

After she braided her hair…
Providing you let the dog out…
Within the allotted time…
Given her regular schedule…
While Elena played…
…because she’s sleeping

How Do You Identify a Main Clause and a Subordinate Clause in a Sentence?

For you to easily identify the main clause and the subordinate clause in a sentence, you first need to know what they are and their differences. Let’s start with the main clause.

The main clause or the independent clause is a group of words that expresses a complete thought. It has a subject and a predicate that together allow it to stand on its own, thus, the moniker independent clause.

On the other hand, a subordinate clause depends on another clause for it to mean something. It is normally joined to the main clause with asubordinating conjunction like while, but, or because. Since a subordinate clause needs another clause for it to make sense to readers, it is also referred to as a dependent clause.

Below are examples of sentences containing a main clause and a subordinate clause. The subordinate clauses will be highlighted in bold text.

Like a bullet speeding through the air, Jake took all of his belongings and ran out of the house.
Dorothy went to church after school because her mom asked her to.
My uncle, who lives in a nearby town, is coming for Thanksgiving.
  1. Independent (Main) Clauses: don’t need another clause to make sense and can stand alone as a complete sentence.
  2. Subordinate Clauses: need another clause to make sense and can’t stand alone as a complete sentence.

Can You Start a Sentence with a Subordinate Clause?

You can start a sentence with a subordinate clause (Since I was up early, I decided to go for a long walk). Or, it can go later in the sentence (I decided to go for a walk since I was up early). Other than the position of the clause, you’ll notice that the main difference between these two constructions is a comma; If the subordinate clause comes at the beginning of the sentence, you need to place a comma after it. However, if the subordinate clause comes later, you don’t need a comma with this clause.

While she cooks, my mother loves to play high-energy music.
My mother loves to play high-energy music while she cooks.

Do You Put a Comma Before a Subordinate Clause?

You don’t need to put a comma before a subordinate clause (We love cooking with garlic even though it’s an intense flavor). However, when it comes at the beginning of sentence, you do need a comma after the subordinate clause (Even though it’s an intense flavor, we love cooking with garlic).

How Do You Identify a Subordinate Clause in a Sentence?

To identify a subordinate clause in a sentence, look for a clause that 1) starts with a subordinating conjunction (like because, while, and considering) or a relative pronoun (like who, whoever, whenever); 2) contains a noun and a verb; 3) doesn’t form a complete sentence. They can appear at the beginning or later on in a sentence, but subordinate clauses always have a few key elements in common.

🤔 Like all clauses, subordinate clauses have a subject and a verb. However, unlike some clauses, subordinate clauses don’t form a complete sentence.

Subordinate clauses are easy to spot. They begin with subordinating conjunctions or dependent pronouns (also called relative pronouns), and they contain both a subject and a verb. Instead of forming complete sentences by themselves, subordinate clausescontribute information to main (or independent) clauses.

The subordinating conjunction and dependent pronouns in all the following examples of subordinate clauses are bold to make them easier to spot.

📝 Relative pronouns are also called dependent pronouns.

First, you’ll see the subordinate clause example. Then, we’ll join this example with an independent clause to form a full sentence.

AfterJill stepped out
Ben slammed the doorafterJill stepped out.
As thoughhe felt ill
Paul made a faceas thoughhe felt ill.
Rather thanrunning away
Rather thanrunning away, why not stay for cake?
Whoeverleaves last
Whoeverleaves lastmust shut the door.
Whichevercomes first
I’ll walk until I get tired or the light fades, whichevercomes first.
Subordinate clauses don’t appear in all sentences. Some sentences are made of two (or more) independent clauses instead. When two clauses are equally important, you use a coordinating conjunction (for, and, nor, but, or, yet and so) to bring them together.
A subordinate clause cannot stand on its own. An image of a mother, labeled as main clause, holding the hands of her young son labeled as subordinate clause.
Subordinate clauses need another clause to make sense.

What are the 3 Subordinate Clauses?

The three types of subordinate clauses are: noun, adverb and adjective clauses. This basically means that we can treat a subordinate clause as an entire unit of a sentence rather than just a noun and verb pieced together. When we do, this entire unit can act as a noun, adverb, or even an adjective.

For instance, when a subordinate clause is the subject, direct object, prepositional object, or predicate nominative, its a noun clause. Similarly, when it modifies verbs, adverbs, and adjectives, it’s an adverb clause. Finally, when it modifies nouns and pronouns, it’s an adjective clause.

The Three Types of Subordinate Clauses:

  1. Noun clauses can be subjects, direct objects, prepositional objects, and predicate nominatives (also known as subject complements).
  2. Adverb clauses (also called adverbial clauses) modify verbs, adverbs, and adjectives. They tell readers why, where, when, to what extent, or under what circumstances something has happened.
  3. Adjective clauses modify nouns and pronouns. They’re often introduced by relative pronouns (for example that, which, who, whom, whose, what).

1. Noun Clause Examples

Whatever we do, we must arrive before nightfall. (noun clause as a subject)
I plantwhatever I want to.(noun clause as an object)

2. Adverb Clause Examples

We can collect shellswhen the tide goes out. (adverb clause modifies the verbcollect)
Once we finish dinner, we should play some chess. (adverb clause modifies play)

3. Adjective Clause Examples

I saw a womanwho was singing.(adjective clause modifies the nounwoman)
The ingredientsthat I bought for Julie’s birthday cakeare on the counter. (adjective clause modifies the nouningredients)

How Do You Use Subordinate Clause in a Sentence?

Use a subordinate clause in a sentence to provide more information or details about the main clause. They don’t make sense by themselves. They need a buddy — a main clause — to become part of a sentence. Connect a subordinate clause with a main clause using either a subordinating conjunction (while, although, since) or a dependent pronoun, like this:

Stella ran up the stairsbecauseshe forgot her violin.
Afterhis music recital, Greg went to the bar.
UnlessI store them in a cool place, the apples I picked will go rotten.
Jane scrubbeduntilthe stain disappeared.
Whilethe family slept, their new puppy destroyed dad’s slippers.

In each example, the subordinate clause tells us why the main clause happens, or to whom or what the main clause applies.

(main clause)The dog howled.
(subordinate clause)Afterhis owner left.
The dog howled after his owner left.
After his owner left, the dog howled.
(main clause)She fed the ducks.
(subordinate clause)Beforereturning home from the vegetable market.

She fed the ducks before returning home from the vegetable market.

Before returning home from the vegetable market, she fed the ducks.

Does a Subordinate Clause Need a Verb?

Subordinate clauses need a noun and a verb. What’s more, they also need an independent, or main, clause to make sense. This means that even though a subordinate clause contains a noun and a verb, it can’t make a complete sentence without a main clause.

(main clause)I adore coffee.
(subordinate clause) Becausethe smell is so captivating.

I adore coffee because the smell is so captivating.

Do you put a comma before a subordinate clause? First panel shows two men talking. One is labeled main clause and the other subordinate clause. Text reads: When the main clause appears at the beginning of a sentence, you don't need a comma before the subordinate clause. Second panels shows two men separated by a comma. Man on left is labeled subordinate clause and man on right is labeled main clause. Text reads: When the subordinate clause appears at the beginning of a sentence, you need a comma after it. Subordinate clauses are also called dependent clauses.
Subordinate clauses are also known as dependent clauses.

What is a Subordination Clause?

A subordination clause is not the same thing as a subordinate clause. One one hand, a subordination clause is a contractual provision that gives one claim on a debt precedence over other claims that come later. This type of legal clause usually appears in mortgage refinancing agreements. On the other hand, a subordinate clause is a clause comprised of a noun and a verb. Unlike an independent clause, subordinate clauses cannot stand alone as a sentence.

While there is some conceptual overlap, there is a clear difference between the meanings and the usages of these words. For example, associate a subordination clause with other debts being subordinate to the main one.

Similarly, associate subordinate clause with a clause being subordinate to the main one.

There may be four different types of sentences: simple, compound, complex and compound-complex, but they all have one thing in common; they’re all made of clauses.

Some sentences contain just one independent clause, while others feature both independent and dependent clauses.

Test Your Mastery of Subordinate Clause

Subordinate Clause Question #1

Which of these statements is NOT correct?
Correct! Wrong!

The answer is C. Although subordinate clauses contain both a subject and a verb, they don't work as complete sentences.

Subordinate Clause Question #2

Main clauses are also known as independent clauses.
Correct! Wrong!

The answer is TRUE. Main clauses work as complete sentences.

Subordinate Clause Question #3

Which of these is NOT a type of subordinate clause?
Correct! Wrong!

The answer is B. Subordinate clauses can act as nouns, adverbs, and adjectives.

Subordinate Clause Question #4

Subordinate clauses begin with subordinating conjunctions or relative pronouns.
Correct! Wrong!

The answer is TRUE. You can identify subordinate clauses by spotting the subordinating conjunctions or relative pronouns.

Subordinate Clause Question #5

Identify the subordinate clause. The kite flies whenever the wind blows.
Correct! Wrong!

The answer is B. You can identify subordinate clauses by spotting the subordinating conjunctions or relative pronouns.

Subordinate Clause Question #6

Which of the following is a coordinating conjunction?
Correct! Wrong!

The answer is D. All of these are coordinating conjunctions.

Subordinate Clause Quiz Result
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