In order to write well, you need to be able to construct complex sentences. But what is a complex sentence? In this post, we’ll define complex sentences and give some examples. Then, you’ll be able to put this knowledge to use in your own writing!
What is a Complex Sentence?
A complex sentence is a sentence with one independent clause and at least one dependent clause. The clauses are joined by a conjunction or a relative pronoun. A complex sentence is distinct from a compound sentence, which consists of two or more independent clauses joined by a conjunction.
The dependent clause in a complex sentence often appears first, followed by the independent clause. For example:
- “Unless you finish your homework, you can’t go to the party.”
In this sentence, “unless you finish your homework” is the dependent clause, while “you can’t go to the party” is the independent clause.
Complex sentences are important because they allow writers to express more complicated ideas than would be possible with a simple sentence. They also make writing more interesting for readers by adding variety and rhythm.
However, it is important not to overuse complex sentences, as this can make writing difficult to understand. When used sparingly, complex sentences can be an effective way to add interest and sophistication to your writing.
Types of Complex Sentences
You can combine two simple sentences into one complex sentence in several different ways. The three most common types of complex sentences are subordinate clauses, adjective clauses, and adverb clauses.
Subordinate Clause
A subordinate clause is a clause that cannot stand alone as a sentence; it is always dependent on an independent clause. A subordinate clause usually begins with a subordinating conjunction, such as after, although, as, because, before, even if, even though, if, in order to, since, though, unless, until, when, whenever, where, whereas, or while. Have a look at the following examples:
- I will call you when I arrive home.
- Unless you apologize, I will not speak to you again.
- While I am gone, please feed the cat.
By incorporating subordinate clauses, you can create more intricate and nuanced sentences. Understanding how these clauses work will enable you to enhance the clarity and flow of your writing.
Adjective Clause
An adjective clause modifies a noun or pronoun and is also called a relative clause. An adjective clause is introduced by a noun or pronoun they modify, as in the following examples:
- The man who called this morning wants his order shipped overnight.
- Do you know the girl whose brother goes to my school?
- The letter that came today was from my aunt.
- We visited the countries where our ancestors lived.
Adjective clauses are always connected to an independent clause, enriching the sentence with more detail. They provide clarity and depth, making the sentence more informative and engaging.
How to Identify a Complex Sentence
A complex sentence has two clauses, one independent and one dependent. The dependent clause shares information about the independent clause and usually (but not always) begins with a subordinating conjunction. For example:
- I didn’t see the other car coming. (simple sentence)
- Because I didn’t see the other car coming, I swerved into the ditch. (complex sentence)
In the second sentence, the phrase “because I didn’t see the other car coming” is a dependent clause. It shares information about the main clause (“I swerved into the ditch”), but it can’t stand on its own as a sentence. The subordinate conjunction (“because”) introduces the dependent clause and establishes its relationship to the main clause.
A complex sentence can also be formed by putting two independent clauses together with a coordinating conjunction. For example:
- The alarm went off, but I kept sleeping.
In this sentence, both “the alarm went off” and “I kept sleeping” are complete thoughts that could stand alone as sentences. They are connected by the coordinating conjunction “but,” which creates a complex sentence.
The Main Clause and the Subordinate Clause
The main clause is the star of the sentence. It’s the part that would stand alone as a complete thought. The subordinate clause, on the other hand, can’t exist on its own—it’s like a wannabe Main Clause that needs the support of its big brother or sister to make sense. A important role in our writing. By allowing us to detail and nuance our ideas, subordinate clauses help us create richer and more complex sentences. So don’t be afraid to let them take center stage every once in a while.
The Independent Clause and the Dependent Clause
A sentence has one independent clause and one or more dependent clauses. The simplest sentence consists of a single independent clause: “I run.” An independent clause contains a subject and a verb and expresses a complete thought. A dependent clause also contains a subject and a verb, but it cannot stand alone as a complete sentence; it depends on the independent clause for its meaning.
- For example, the sentence “I run Coordinating Conjunctions
Conjunctions are words that join other words, phrases, or clauses together. The most common coordinating conjunctions are and, but, or, nor, for, yet, and so. These words can be used to connect two ideas that are related. For example, you might say:
In this sentence, the conjunction “so” is connecting the idea of studying conjunctions with the idea of improving writing.
Conjunctions can also be used to contrast two ideas. For example, you might say:
In this sentence, the conjunction “so” is contrast the idea of studying conjunctions with the idea of making mistakes in writing.
Conjunctions are a important part of language because they help us to express complex ideas clearly and writing more fluid and easier to understand. However, when used incorrectly, they can create confusion and make our writing less effective. Thus, it is important to choose the right conjunction for the situation.
Subordinating Conjunctions
A subordinate conjunction is a word that connects two phrases or clauses, with the second dependent on the first. The most common subordinate conjunctions are after, although, as, because, before, if, once, since, though, until, and when. Without these words, our language would be much more simplified- but also quite dull. Let’s take a look at an example:
- I was late for my appointment because my train was delayed.
Without the subordinate conjunction “because,” this sentence wouldn’t make nearly as much sense. We would need to know more information in order to understand why the person was late for their appointment. In other words, the subordinate conjunction provides context and helps to connect ideas. As a result, our language is richer and more nuanced.
Relative Pronouns
Pronouns are words that stand in for other nouns or groups of nouns. They can be used to refer to people, places, things, or ideas. Relative pronouns are a type of pronoun that is used to introduce a relative clause. A relative clause is a clause that provides additional information about a noun or pronoun.
The most common relative pronouns are who, whom, whose, that, and which. Relative pronouns can be used to join two clauses together.
- For example, the sentence “The man who lives next door is my neighbor” contains a relative clause that provides additional information about the man.
The relative pronoun “who” stands in for the noun “man” and introduces the relative clause “who lives next door.” Relative pronouns can also be used to connect ideas or objects that are related to each other.
- For example, the sentence “I have a friend whose dog just had puppies” contains a relative clause that connects the idea of my friend to the object of her dog.
In this sentence, the relative pronoun “whose” stands in for the word “friend” and introduces the relative clause “whose dog just had puppies.”
When deciding which relative pronoun to use, you must first consider what function the pronoun will serve in the sentence. If the pronoun is acting as the subject of the relative clause, then you will use who or that.
If the pronoun is acting as an object of the relative clause, then you will use whom or which.
- For example, in the sentence “The woman who lives next door is my neighbor,” the pronoun “who” is acting as the subject of the relative clause (“who lives next door”), so it is appropriate to use who.
However, in the sentence “I have a friend whom I went to school with,” the pronoun “whom” is acting as an object of the relative clause (“whom I went to school with”), so it is appropriate to use whom. It is important to note that whom is increasingly being replaced by who in spoken English. This usage is considered informal and should be avoided in formal writing.
Compound Sentences vs Complex Sentences
Sentences are the building blocks of writing. They can be short and sweet, or long and complicated. But what differentiates a compound sentence from a complex sentence? In a nutshell, a compound sentence is two independent clauses joined by a coordinating conjunction, while a complex sentence is an independent clause joined by one or more dependent clauses.
While both types of sentences have their place in writing, complex sentences are often more effective at conveying thoughts and ideas. This is because they can pack a lot of information into a single sentence, making them perfect for conveying complex ideas. In addition, complex sentences tend to be more engaging, as they can create a sense of rhythm and flow. As a result, they are often used by writers who want to add style and flair to their work.
Examples of Complex Sentences in Literature
The best way to learn about complex sentences is to find examples of them in literature. A complex sentence has two parts: a main clause and a subordinate clause. The main clause is the independent part of the sentence, while the subordinate clause is dependent on the main clause. Here are some examples of complex sentences from famous novels:
- “I’m so sorry, Uncle Tom,” said Eva, “but I can’t do anything.” – Harriet Beecher Stowe, Uncle Tom’s Cabin
- “Though I knew well enough that nothing could come of it.” – Charlotte Bronte, Jane Eyre
- “If you will pardon me for saying so.” – Charles Dickens, Bleak House
As you can see, complex sentences are a good way to add depth and interest to your writing. By using them judiciously, you can create beautiful prose that will engage and delight your readers.
Conclusion
In order to increase product sales, it is important for digital marketers to understand how the human brain works. The neuroscience tips provided in this article can help you get started. Additionally, complex sentences can be used to add style and flair to your writing. By understanding the building blocks of sentences, you can create beautiful prose that engages and delights your readers.
FAQs
What is a complex sentence?
A complex sentence is a sentence that has one independent clause and at least one dependent clause. An independent clause is a clause that can stand alone as a complete sentence, while a dependent clause cannot.
How to punctuate a complex sentence?
When you have type of conjunction joins two independent clauses together without changing the meaning of the sentence.
When do you use a comma in a complex sentence?
You use a comma in a complex sentence whenever you have an independent clause and a dependent clause. This is because the dependent clause cannot stand alone as a complete sentence, so the comma helps to indicate that it is subordinate to the independent clause.
How to make a complex sentence more readable?
One way to make a complex sentence more readable is to put the dependent clause first, followed by the independent clause. This can help to establish the hierarchy of the clauses and make it easier for What are the benefits of using complex sentences?
There are many benefits to using complex sentences. They can help you to express more complicated ideas and they can also make your writing sound more sophisticated. Additionally, complex sentences can be used to create suspense or surprise in your writing.
