An independent clause is a group of words with a subject and a predicate. It expresses a complete thought and can stand alone as a sentence.
Independent Clause Examples
- I enjoy sitting by the fireplace and reading.
- Waiting to have my car’s oil changed is boring.
- She wants to travel the world and see wonderful sights.
- Our planets revolve around the sun.
- The professor always comes to class fully prepared.
- Hurricanes strengthen over warm waters.
- It is good to tackle the hardest chores first.
- Meredith fixed the leaky faucet all by herself.
- The soprano sang the aria perfectly.
- Cheetahs are the fastest land animals.
- Hiking and biking are my favorite summertime activities.
- It is very important to brush your teeth twice a day.
- We can hardly wait to see the movie.
- This fall’s television line-up is lacking in diversity.
- The brand new Italian restaurant is beautifully decorated.
- There is a lot of apathy concerning the upcoming election.
- Andrew decided to buy a sundae instead of a double-scoop cone.
- Joan teaches science and algebra at the community college.
- The squirrels are busy storing nuts for the winter.
- I like to swim laps to stay in shape.
- Peter and Elaine could not decide if they wanted to elope or have a big wedding.
- The team persevered and finally broke the tie.
- The Alps in Switzerland are breathtaking.
Examples of Independent Clauses Joined Together
Here are examples of two independent clauses together in one sentence joined by a comma and/or a coordinating conjunction:
- The beach is a lot of fun, but the mountains are even better.
- All of us went to the movie, and we agreed it was enjoyable.
- I went to the mall, but forgot to get socks.
- He went to the park and the ride was broken.
- I really wanted potato soup, but they only offered clam chowder and chicken noodle.
- Today is Thursday and the test is Friday.
- She not only bought two dresses but she got matching shoes.
- I really want to see the game, but the store is having a huge sale.
- She interviewed for three jobs, but she really wants to work here.
- We all looked very tired, for we had stayed up all night cramming for the final.
Independent Clauses in Sentences with Semicolons
Here are examples of two independent clauses joined by a semicolon:
- I went to the Department of Motor vehicles; I took the written test.
- Monica brought the drinks; Frank brought the main dish.
- This is one of my favorite books; Pride and Prejudice is another favorite.
- My little brother refuses to go to bed early; he is afraid he will miss something.
- The bridge is narrow; the river is wide.
- He is going to the cabin; he intends to stay there all weekend.
- During their hike, they noticed a storm moving in; they decided to turn back.
- There was a strong wind at the beach; we managed to have a good time anyway.
- I was very happy; I had pizza and ice cream.
- Some authors prefer to use a word processor; others write using pen and paper.
For more, check out this informative article on independent and dependent clauses.