A complex sentence contains one independent clause and at least one dependent clause.
Understanding Clauses
- Independent Clause: A complete thought that can stand alone as a sentence.
- Dependent Clause: A group of words that contains a subject and a verb but cannot stand alone as a sentence.
Connecting Clauses
Dependent clauses are connected to the independent clause using subordinating conjunctions.
Here are some common subordinating conjunctions:
- Time: after, before, since, until, when, while
- Cause/Effect: because, since, so that
- Contrast: although, though, even though, whereas
- Condition: if, unless, whether
Examples
Here are some examples of complex sentences:
- "Because it was raining, we stayed inside." (Dependent clause: Because it was raining, Independent clause: we stayed inside.)
- "While I was waiting for the bus, I saw a dog chasing a squirrel." (Dependent clause: While I was waiting for the bus, Independent clause: I saw a dog chasing a squirrel.)
- "If you finish your homework, you can watch TV." (Dependent clause: If you finish your homework, Independent clause: you can watch TV.)
Conclusion
Complex sentences provide a way to add more detail and complexity to your writing. By understanding the rules of complex sentences, you can create more interesting and engaging prose.
