What Is a Complex Sentence?
A complex sentence is a sentence that combines an independent clause with one or more dependent clauses to add depth and detail to your writing.
Understanding Complex Sentences
A complex sentence contains one independent clause and at least one dependent clause. The independent clause can stand alone as a complete sentence, while the dependent clause cannot.
By using complex sentences, you can provide more detailed and nuanced information, making your writing more engaging and informative.
Components of a Complex Sentence
An independent clause is a group of words that can function as a sentence on its own. It has a subject and a predicate, such as "She read the book."
A dependent clause, on the other hand, cannot stand alone. It adds information to the independent clause and begins with a subordinating conjunction like "because" or "although." For example, "because it was interesting" is a dependent clause.
Dependent clauses can be categorized into three types:
Adjective Clauses: Modify nouns or pronouns (e.g., "The book, which was on the table, is mine.").
Adverb Clauses: Modify verbs, adjectives, or other adverbs (e.g., "She left because she was tired.").
Noun Clauses: Function as a noun within the sentence (e.g., "What she said was surprising.").
How to Form Complex Sentences
Subordinating conjunctions are essential in forming complex sentences. They link the dependent clause to the independent clause. Some common subordinating conjunctions include "because," "since," "although," "if," and "when."
Here is a step-by-step guide to constructing complex sentences:
Start with an independent clause: "I went to the store."
Add a subordinating conjunction: "because."
Attach a dependent clause: "I needed groceries."
The resulting complex sentence is: "I went to the store because I needed groceries."
Examples and Practice
Below are examples of complex sentences for various contexts:
Academic: "Although she studied hard, she didn't pass the exam."
Conversational: "When you finish your work, we can go out."
Professional: "Since the report was due, he worked late."
Try creating your own complex sentences with these exercises:
Start with an independent clause.
Choose a subordinating conjunction.
Add a dependent clause.
Examples:
"She sings beautifully although she has never taken lessons."
"I will call you when I arrive."
"Because it was raining, we stayed indoors."
"He went to bed early since he had a meeting in the morning."
"The teacher smiled when the student answered correctly."
"They were excited because they had won the competition."
"Even though it was late, she decided to go for a run."
"We can have a picnic if the weather is nice."
"The cat hid under the bed because it was scared."
Tips for identifying and correcting errors:
Ensure the dependent clause adds necessary information.
Check for appropriate use of subordinating conjunctions.
Verify that the independent clause can stand alone.