Compound-Complex Sentence

A compound-complex sentence is a sentence that combines the features of both compound and complex sentences. To break it down:

  • Compound sentence: Contains two or more independent clauses.
  • Complex sentence: Contains at least one independent clause and at least one dependent clause.
  • Compound-complex sentence: Therefore, it contains two or more independent clauses and at least one dependent clause.

Here's a clearer look:

  • Independent clauses: These can stand alone as complete sentences.
  • Dependent clauses: These cannot stand alone and rely on an independent clause to make sense.

Key characteristics:

  • It has multiple independent clauses, usually joined by coordinating conjunctions (like "and," "but," "or," "so") or semicolons.
  • It also has one or more dependent clauses, often introduced by subordinating conjunctions (like "because," "although," "when," "if") or relative pronouns (like "who," "which," "that").

Here's an example:

  • "Although it was raining, I went for a walk, and I took my dog with me."

In this sentence:

  • "Although it was raining" is the dependent clause.
  • "I went for a walk" and "I took my dog with me" are the two independent clauses, joined by "and."

Essentially, a compound-complex sentence allows for more intricate and detailed expression, enabling writers to connect multiple ideas and provide context within a single sentence.