Introduction to Complex Sentences
A complex sentence is a sentence that contains one independent clause and at least one dependent clause.
The independent clause expresses a complete thought and can stand alone as a sentence, while the dependent clause provides additional information but cannot stand alone.
Characteristics of Complex Sentences
Use of Subordinating Conjunctions:
Dependent clauses are introduced by subordinating conjunctions such as because, although, since, when, while, and if.
Variety in Sentence Structure:
Complex sentences allow for a range of expression, making writing more engaging by combining related ideas.
Simple, Compound, and Complex
1. Simple Sentences:
A simple sentence contains one independent clause and no dependent clauses.
Examples
She enjoys reading.
2. Compound Sentences:
A compound sentence contains two or more independent clauses joined by a coordinating conjunction (for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so).
3. Complex Sentences:
A complex sentence contains one independent clause and at least one dependent clause.
Structure of Complex Sentences
1. Independent Clauses
An independent clause is a group of words that contains a subject and a predicate, expressing a complete thought. It can stand alone as a sentence.
2. Dependent Clauses
A dependent clause, also known as a subordinate clause, contains a subject and a predicate but does not express a complete thought. It relies on an independent clause to provide context and meaning.
Examples
Because she loves to dance (incomplete thought, needs an independent clause).
Although it was raining (incomplete thought, needs an independent clause).
3. Combining Clauses in Complex Sentences
A complex sentence is formed by combining an independent clause with one or more dependent clauses using subordinating conjunctions.
Examples
She loves to dance because it makes her feel happy.
Although it was raining, we decided to go for a walk.
Independent Clauses
An independent clause is a group of words that contains a subject and a predicate, expressing a complete thought. It can stand alone as a sentence.
Definition:
An independent clause can function on its own and does not rely on any other clauses for its meaning.
Dependent Clauses
A dependent clause, also known as a subordinate clause, contains a subject and a predicate but does not express a complete thought. It relies on an independent clause to provide context and meaning.
1. Adverbial Clauses
An adverbial clause modifies a verb, adjective, or adverb and provides information about time, place, condition, reason, or contrast.
Examples
Time: "We left when the rain stopped."
Condition: "If it rains, we will stay inside."
Reason: "She was happy because she passed the exam."
2. Adjective Clauses
An adjective clause (or relative clause) modifies a noun or pronoun by providing more information about it. These clauses often begin with relative pronouns like who, whom, whose, which, or that.
3. Noun Clauses
A noun clause functions as a noun within the sentence. It can serve as a subject, object, or complement.
Examples
Subject: "What you said is true."
Object: "I believe that he will come."
Complement: "The truth is that she was right."