An independent clause contains a subject and a predicate and expresses a complete thought．When written，therefore，an independent clause can stand alone as a sentence if it is properly punctuated．In many instances，an independent clause functions as the main clause of a sentence．Look at the following examples，in which the underlined parts are independent clauses．

独立分句通常包含一个主谓结构并且表达完整的思想，也可称为简单句，此时，一个独立分句与句子的概念可以替换。一般情况下，独立分句在句中充当主句，如下例划线部分。

We use a modified-block letter style in our office．

The modified-block letter style，which is easy to type，is used in our office．

If the modified-block letter style is used all of the time，it soon becomes automatic．

One of your co-workers told me that you will be promoted within the near future．