What Is a Complex Sentence? (With Examples)

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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!

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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.

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.

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.

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