A dependent clause is a group of words that contains a subject and a verb but cannot stand alone as a complete sentence. It relies on an independent clause to form a complete thought.

Example: “Although she was tired” (dependent clause)

An independent clause, on the other hand, is a group of words that contains a subject and a verb and can stand alone as a complete sentence. It expresses a complete thought and does not rely on any other clause.

Example: “She decided to go to bed early” (independent clause)

In summary, a dependent clause relies on an independent clause to form a complete sentence, while an independent clause can stand alone as a complete sentence.