What is a "subordinate clause"?

A A complete sentence

B A dependent clause that cannot stand alone as a sentence

C The main idea of a paragraph

D A type of thesis

✓ Correct Answer: Option B

A subordinate (dependent) clause contains a subject and verb but cannot stand alone. It begins with a subordinating conjunction (because, although, when, etc.).

💡 Why is B) the correct answer?

The correct answer to the question "What is a "subordinate clause"?" is Option B: A dependent clause that cannot stand alone as a sentence.

The other options — A) A complete sentence, C) The main idea of a paragraph, D) A type of thesis — are incorrect for this ACT Exam Prep question. As explained above: A subordinate (dependent) clause contains a subject and verb but cannot stand alone. It begins with a subordinating conjunction (because, although, when, etc.).

📚 About This ACT Exam Prep Practice Question

This 2-level ACT Exam Prep question from the Writing (Optional) topic is part of BrainForge Quiz's free exam preparation library. Each question includes the correct answer and a detailed explanation to help you understand the underlying concept, not just memorize the answer.

How to use this page: Read the question above, consider all four options (A through D), then check the highlighted correct answer and explanation. For active timed practice, start a free ACT Exam Prep practice test or use flashcards for spaced repetition review.

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What is a "subordinate clause"?

✓ Correct Answer: Option B

📚 About This ACT Exam Prep Practice Question

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