Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of an independent clause?

An independent clause is defined by its ability to function as a complete sentence on its own, meaning that it can convey a complete thought. Characteristics of an independent clause include having both a subject and a verb. This structure allows the clause to express a complete idea, making it capable of standing alone as a complete sentence.

While it's true that independent clauses can be part of complex sentences (which combine independent and dependent clauses), the characteristic that states an independent clause cannot be part of another sentence is incorrect. Independent clauses often connect with dependent clauses or other independent clauses using coordinating or subordinating conjunctions, forming more complex sentence structures. Therefore, the option that outlines the inability of an independent clause to be part of another sentence is not a valid characteristic of independent clauses.