Complex Sentences

Introduction

In this chapter, we will learn about complex sentences. Complex sentences are important because they help us connect ideas and show the relationship between different parts of a sentence. Understanding complex sentences helps us express more detailed and nuanced thoughts.

What Are Complex Sentences?

A complex sentence is a sentence with one independent clause and any number of subordinate (dependent) clauses. The subordinate clause can provide additional information, show a condition, explain a reason, or indicate a time.

Example:

• If I wear my glasses, the sky looks blue. (This complex sentence has one independent clause “the sky looks blue” and one dependent clause “If I wear my glasses”)

Key Points

• One Independent Clause: A complex sentence contains one independent clause.
• One or More Dependent Clauses: It also contains one or more dependent clauses.
• Show Relationships: They help show the relationship between ideas, such as cause and effect, time, condition, and reason.

Examples

• Because it was raining, we stayed indoors.
• She went to bed early since she was tired.
• Although he was hungry, he didn’t eat.
• When the bell rang, the students left the classroom.

Structure of Complex Sentences

The structure of complex sentences involves combining an independent clause with one or more dependent clauses using subordinating conjunctions.

Using Subordinating Conjunctions

Subordinating Conjunction + Dependent Clause -> , + Independent Clause

Examples:

• Because she was late, she missed the bus.
• If it rains, we will cancel the picnic.

Independent Clause -> + Subordinating Conjunction + Dependent Clause

Examples:

• She missed the bus because she was late.
• We will cancel the picnic if it rains.

List of Common Subordinating Conjunctions

Here are some common subordinating conjunctions and their uses:

Real-Life Examples of Complex Sentences

Here are some real-life situations where complex sentences are commonly used:

Examples:

• In School: “Because the teacher was absent, the class was canceled.”
• At Work: “If the meeting ends early, I will finish the report.”
• At Home: “While I was cooking, the phone rang.”
• In a Conversation: “Although I agree with you, we need to consider other options.”
• In the Park: “When the sun sets, the park looks beautiful.”

More Examples of Complex Sentences

Examples:

• Because it was raining, we stayed indoors.
• She went to bed early since she was tired.
• Although he was hungry, he didn’t eat.
• When the bell rang, the students left the classroom.
• If you study hard, you will pass the exam.

Practice

Let’s practice identifying and creating complex sentences! Determine if each sentence below is a complex sentence and then create your own complex sentences for each given topic.

Identify Complex Sentences:

1. She went to the library because she needed to study.
2. The flowers are blooming.
3. If it stops raining, we will go outside.
4. He loves playing soccer, but he prefers basketball.
5. While she was reading, the phone rang.

Answers:

1. Complex Sentence
2. Not a Complex Sentence (Simple)
3. Complex Sentence
4. Not a Complex Sentence (Compound)
5. Complex Sentence

Create Your Own Complex Sentences:

1. About Your Favorite Foods: __________________________________
2. About Your Weekend Plans: ___________________________________
3. About Your School Activities: ______________________________________
4. About Your Family Outings: ________________________________________
5. About Your Hobbies: _______________________________________

Conclusion

Complex sentences help us connect ideas and show the relationship between different parts of a sentence. They contain one independent clause and one or more dependent clauses. By understanding and using complex sentences, we can express more detailed and nuanced thoughts.