Independent clause

In traditional grammar, an independent clause (or main clause) is a clause that can stand by itself as a simple sentence. An independent clause contains a subject and a predicate and makes sense by itself.

Independent clauses can be joined by using a semicolon or by using a comma followed by a coordinating conjunction (and, but, for, or, nor, so, yet, etc.).

Examples
In the following example sentences, independent clauses are underlined, and conjunctions are in bold.

Single independent clauses: Multiple independent clauses:
 * I have enough money to buy an ice cream cone.
 * My favourite flavour is chocolate.
 * Let's go to the shop.
 * I have enough money to buy an ice cream cone ; my favourite flavour is chocolate.
 * I have enough money to buy an ice cream cone, so let's go to the shop.