What is the difference between a dependent clause and an independent clause? a dependent clause cannot stand alone; an independent clause expresses a thought on its own. an independent cannot stand alone; a dependent clause does stand alonewhat is the difference between a dependent clause and an independent clause? a dependent clause cannot stand alone; an independent clause expresses a thought on its own. an independent cannot stand alone; a dependent clause does stand alone. a dependent clause is a comma splice; an independent clause is not. an independent clause is a comma splice; a dependent clause is not.. a dependent clause is a comma splice; an independent clause is not. an independent clause is a comma splice; a dependent clause is not.