
Complex Sentences
A complex sentence is a sentence structure that combines one independent clause with at least one dependent clause. This combination allows writers to express more intricate relationships between ideas than simple or compound sentences.
Here's a breakdown:
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Independent Clause (Main Clause):
- This is the core of the complex sentence.
- It contains a subject and a verb.
- It expresses a complete thought and can stand alone as a simple sentence.
- Example: "The students studied hard."
-
Dependent Clause (Subordinate Clause):
- This clause also contains a subject and a verb, but it cannot stand alone as a complete sentence.
- It relies on the independent clause to make full sense.
- It typically begins with a subordinating conjunction (like because, when, although, if, since, while, until, unless) or a relative pronoun (like who, whom, whose, which, that).
- Dependent clauses modify a part of the independent clause or function as a noun within it.
Types of Dependent Clauses often found in Complex Sentences:
- Adverbial Clause: Modifies a verb, adjective, or adverb in the main clause, telling when, where, why, how, to what extent, or under what condition.
- Example: "The students passed the exam because they studied hard." (Tells why)
- Adjective (Relative) Clause: Modifies a noun or pronoun in the main clause, providing more information about it. It usually starts with a relative pronoun.
- Example: "The teacher who gave the extra help was praised." (Describes "teacher")
- Noun Clause: Functions as a noun within the sentence (as a subject, object, or complement).
- Example: "What he said was very important." (Functions as the subject of "was")
How they are formed and punctuated:
- Dependent Clause + Independent Clause: If the dependent clause comes first, it is usually followed by a comma.
- Example: "Because it was raining, we stayed inside."
- Independent Clause + Dependent Clause: If the independent clause comes first, a comma is usually not needed (unless the dependent clause is non-essential, like a non-restrictive relative clause).
- Example: "We stayed inside because it was raining."
Purpose and Impact:
Complex sentences are powerful tools for writers because they allow for:
- Showing Relationships: They clearly establish connections between ideas (cause/effect, time, contrast, condition).
- Adding Detail and Nuance: They provide specific information, explanations, or descriptions without breaking the flow into multiple simple sentences.
- Sentence Variety: They break up the monotony of simple or compound sentences, making writing more engaging and sophisticated.
- Logical Flow: They help organize thoughts in a coherent and flowing manner, improving overall readability.
By effectively using complex sentences, writers can convey more intricate thoughts and arguments, leading to clearer and more mature communication.
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