In English grammar, a complex sentence is a sentence that contains:
- One independent clause: This is a clause that can stand alone as a complete sentence.
- At least one dependent clause: This is a clause that cannot stand alone as a complete sentence.
Here's a breakdown:
- Independent Clause:
- Expresses a complete thought.
- Has a subject and a verb.
- Example: "I went to the store."
- Dependent Clause:
- Does not express a complete thought.
- Has a subject and a verb.
- Begins with a subordinating conjunction (e.g., because, although, when, if, since) or a relative pronoun (e.g., who, which, that).
- Example: "because I needed milk."
How They Combine:
A complex sentence combines an independent clause and a dependent clause. For example:
- "I went to the store because I needed milk."
In this example:
- "I went to the store" is the independent clause.
- "because I needed milk" is the dependent clause.
Key Points:
- Subordinating conjunctions are crucial for forming complex sentences. They show the relationship between the independent and dependent clauses.
- The placement of the dependent clause can vary. If it comes before the independent clause, a comma is typically used to separate them.
- Example: "When it rains, the roads get slippery."
- If the dependent clause comes after the independent clause, a comma is usually not needed.
- Example: "The roads get slippery when it rains."
Complex sentences allow for more detailed and nuanced expression, enabling writers to show connections between ideas.
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