Complex Sentence Definition
A complex sentence is a type of sentence that includes an independent clause and at least one dependent clause, which adds additional information to the main idea but cannot stand alone as a complete thought.
This structure allows for more detailed and nuanced expression.
What is a Complex Sentence?
A complex sentence includes an independent clause and one or more dependent clauses. The independent clause can stand alone as a complete sentence, while the dependent clause cannot.
Example 1: I went to the store because we needed milk.
Example 2: Although it was raining, we decided to go for a walk.
Complex sentences allow you to convey more information and show the relationship between ideas.
Example 3: While I was cooking, the phone rang.
Independent and Dependent Clauses
An independent clause is a group of words that can stand alone as a sentence. It has a subject and a verb and expresses a complete thought.
A dependent clause, on the other hand, cannot stand alone. It needs an independent clause to make sense.
Example of an Independent Clause: She enjoys reading.
Example of a Dependent Clause: Because she enjoys reading.
When combined, they form a complex sentence:
Example: She enjoys reading because it helps her relax.
Example: I stayed up late although I was tired.
Common Subordinating Conjunctions
Subordinating conjunctions connect dependent clauses to independent clauses. They indicate relationships such as cause, time, and condition.
Because
Although
Since
Unless
While
When
If
After
Before
Though
Examples:
1. I will call you when I arrive.
2. Since it was late, we took a taxi.
3. Unless you finish your homework, you cannot watch TV.
4. After the meeting ended, we went out for dinner.
How to Form Complex Sentences
Forming complex sentences involves combining independent and dependent clauses effectively.
Follow these steps:
Identify the independent clause.
Choose a suitable subordinating conjunction.
Add the dependent clause.
Examples of Correct Complex Sentences:
1. She didn’t go to the party because she was feeling ill.
2. Although he was tired, he finished his work.
3. If you study hard, you will pass the exam.
Examples of Incorrect Complex Sentences:
1. Because she was feeling ill. (Missing independent clause)
2. He finished his work, although he was tired. (Correct but awkward placement of the dependent clause)
Common Mistakes in Complex Sentences
Incomplete Clauses: A dependent clause cannot stand alone.
Incorrect: While she was cooking.
Correct: While she was cooking, the phone rang.
Misplaced Commas: Use commas to separate the dependent clause when it comes first.
Incorrect: Although he was tired he finished his work.
Correct: Although he was tired, he finished his work.
Overuse of Conjunctions: Avoid using too many conjunctions in a single sentence.
Incorrect: Because it was raining, and because the roads were slippery, we stayed home.
Correct: Because it was raining and the roads were slippery, we stayed home.
Practice Exercises
Exercise 1: Identify the independent and dependent clauses in the following sentences.
Because it was raining, we canceled the picnic.
She will succeed if she works hard.
When the sun sets, we will start the campfire.
Exercise 2: Combine the following pairs of sentences into complex sentences using subordinating conjunctions.
I finished my homework. I watched TV.
She was late. She missed the bus.
It was cold. We went outside.
Exercise 3: Correct the mistakes in the following complex sentences.
When the show starts we will take our seats.
Although he is wealthy but he is not happy.
Because the storm was severe. The flight was delayed.