Examples of Independent Clauses

Here are 23 examples of independent clauses that can stand alone as a sentence:

• 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.

Here are examples of two independent clauses joined together in one sentence by a comma and a coordinating conjunction:

• The beach is a lot of fun, yet the mountains are better.
• A group of us went to the movie, and we agreed it was enjoyable.
• I went to the store, but I forgot to bring my shopping list.
• He went to the theme park, and he went on all the rides.
• I really wanted potato soup, but the cafe only served clam chowder.
• Today is Thursday, and the test is on Friday.
• She had just bought two gorgeous dresses, so she needed to get matching shoes.
• I really want to see the game, but the mall is having a huge sale today.
• 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.

Here are examples of two independent clauses joined in a sentence by a semicolon:

• I went to the Department of Motor vehicles today; I took the written driving 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.

Now that you're comfortable with independent clauses, check out our informative article on the difference between independent and dependent clauses. And you might also want to learn more about the different parts of a sentence too.