Question

a(n) _____ expresses a complete thought and can stand alone as a sentence.

dependent clause
adverbial clause
independent clause
indefinite clause

Explanation:

Analyze the definition of a clause

A clause is a group of words containing a subject and a predicate. The prompt asks for the specific type of clause that "expresses a complete thought and can stand alone as a sentence."

Evaluate the options

• dependent clause: Contains a subject and verb but does not express a complete thought; it cannot stand alone as a sentence.
• adverbial clause: A type of dependent clause that functions as an adverb; it cannot stand alone.
• independent clause: Contains a subject and a verb, expresses a complete thought, and can stand alone as a complete sentence.
• indefinite clause: Not a standard grammatical term for a clause that stands alone.

Select the correct term

The term that perfectly matches the definition is "independent clause."

Answer:

• dependent clause
• adverbial clause
• independent clause (Correct answer)
• indefinite clause