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Adverb Clauses

Definition

An adverb clause is a dependent clause that modifies or describes a verb, adjective, or adverb in the independent clause.

Example

When your spam filter is not set properly, you may receive a lot of spam e-mail.

Explanation

An adverb clause —

• shows the relationship between the independent clause and the dependent clause. For example, an adverb clause can show:
  • time order
  • cause and effect
  • contrast
  • condition
• is introduced by a subordinate conjunction (a kind of linking word).
• can be placed before or after the independent clause.
• is followed by a comma when the adverb clause is placed before the independent clause.
• uses present tense, NOT future tense, when it is showing time order in the future.