what is a complex sentence course hero

by Miss Andreane Sanford DVM 7 min read

A complex sentence is a sentence with one independent clause and at least one dependent clause. It works best when you need to provide more information to explain or modify your sentence’s main point. Complex sentences are easy to spot as they often use subordinating conjunctions like because, since, or until to connect clauses.

Full Answer

What is a complex sentence?

Complex sentences are one of the four basic types of sentences in the English language. Complex sentences require at least three parts: In writing, entire ideas expressed using a noun and verb (a subject and predicate) create independent clauses. Independent clauses can be complete sentences on their own.

How to avoid traps with complex sentences?

When crafting your sentences, be careful to avoid traps with complex sentences. Losing sight of your main idea – Using punctuation, adding subordinating conjunctions, and tacking on streams of dependent clauses, you fall in love with making ever-longer sentences that crush the soul of your intent.

What type of clauses are used in complex sentences?

In addition to subordinating conjunctions, complex sentences can use three types of clauses, called subordinating clauses: These take the place of adjectives, nouns, and adverbs. Examples of adjective clauses working as dependent clauses in complex sentences might be:

What are subordinating conjunctions in a complex sentence?

A complex sentence uses subordinating conjunctions to join an independent clause with a dependent clause. Many subordinating conjunctions serve to signal the dependent clause to be less important than the independent clause. Subordinating clauses can operate as nouns, adjectives, or adverbs to signal the dependent clause's start.

How do you explain a complex sentence?

A complex sentence is a sentence that contains an independent clause and one or more dependent clauses. An independent clause can stand alone as a sentence, but a dependent clause even though it has a subject and a verb cannot stand alone.

What are 5 examples of complex sentences?

Examples of Complex SentencesBecause he was late again, he would be docked a day's pay.While I am a passionate basketball fan, I prefer football.Although she was considered smart, she failed all her exams.Whenever it rains, I like to wear my blue coat.

What is a complex sentence Grammarly?

Updated on June 30, 2021 · Grammar. A complex sentence is a sentence with one independent clause and at least one dependent clause. It works best when you need to provide more information to explain or modify your sentence's main point.

What are 10 examples of complex sentences?

30 Complex Sentences ExamplesAli wants to attend this meeting but her family issues restrained him.As soon as Adam leaves the class, I will start reading loud.Even though we were rich, we drive antique cars.He cannot come with you, he have to go to office.He didn't want to go to the dentist, though he is very sick.More items...

How do you write a complex sentence example?

A complex sentence consists of at least one independent clause (simple sentence) and one or more dependent clauses....Complex sentence.ExampleExplanationwhen it rainssubordinator = when, subject = it, verb = rainsafter we eatsubordinator = after, subject = we, verb = eat3 more rows

How do you teach complex sentences?

Starting with Independent and Dependent Clauses, using the 5 Ws, using Subordinating Conjunction, Sandwich Sentences and fun games are some of the most effective ways to teach Complex Sentences to the students. Using these can bring improvement in children's writing.

What is a complex sentence for kids?

A complex sentence is a sentence that is made up of one independent clause and one or more dependent clauses. Independent clauses have a subject and a simple predicate and can stand alone as a sentence. For example, Mice love cheese.

Which is a complex sentence quizlet?

A sentence containing an independent clause and one or more subordinating clauses. Phrase that expresses a complete thought; it can stand alone.

What is complex and compound sentence?

A compound sentence is a sentence in which two or more independent clauses are joined together with a coordinating conjunction, like “for” and “yet,” or a conjunctive adverb, such as “however” and “nevertheless.” A complex sentence is a sentence that has one independent clause and one or more subordinate clauses that ...

What are 30 examples of compound sentences?

A compound sentence does not contain any dependent clauses.I like coffee. Mary likes tea. → I like coffee, and Mary likes tea.Mary went to work. John went to the party. I went home. → Mary went to work, but John went to the party, and I went home.Our car broke down. We came last. → Our car broke down; we came last.

What are sentences 5 examples?

Examples of simple sentences include the following:Joe waited for the train. "Joe" = subject, "waited" = verb.The train was late. ... Mary and Samantha took the bus. ... I looked for Mary and Samantha at the bus station. ... Mary and Samantha arrived at the bus station early but waited until noon for the bus.

What is a complex sentence for kids?

A complex sentence is a sentence that is made up of one independent clause and one or more dependent clauses. Independent clauses have a subject and a simple predicate and can stand alone as a sentence. For example, Mice love cheese.