Definition:
A complex sentence is a sentence that contains one independent clause (a complete sentence) and at least one dependent clause (an incomplete sentence).
Components of Complex Sentences:
- Independent Clause:
- An independent clause, also known as a main clause, can stand alone as a complete sentence because it expresses a complete thought and contains both a subject and a predicate.
- Dependent Clause:
- A dependent clause, also known as a subordinate clause, cannot stand alone as a complete sentence because it does not express a complete thought. It depends on an independent clause to complete its meaning.
Structure of Complex Sentences:
- Complex sentences consist of one independent clause and at least one dependent clause. The dependent clause may come before or after the independent clause, and they are usually joined by subordinating conjunctions or relative pronouns.
Examples of Complex Sentences:
- Dependent Clause before Independent Clause:
- When the sun sets, the sky turns orange.
(Dependent clause: “When the sun sets” / Independent clause: “the sky turns orange”) - Because she studied hard, she passed the exam.
(Dependent clause: “Because she studied hard” / Independent clause: “she passed the exam”) - Though it was late, they continued working.
(Dependent clause: “Though it was late” / Independent clause: “they continued working”)
- When the sun sets, the sky turns orange.
- Dependent Clause after Independent Clause:
- The sky turns orange when the sun sets.
(Independent clause: “The sky turns orange” / Dependent clause: “when the sun sets”) - She passed the exam because she studied hard.
(Independent clause: “She passed the exam” / Dependent clause: “because she studied hard”) - They continued working though it was late.
(Independent clause: “They continued working” / Dependent clause: “though it was late”)
- The sky turns orange when the sun sets.
Subordinating Conjunctions used in Complex Sentences:
- Time: when, while, before, after, since, until, as soon as.
- Cause and Effect: because, since, as, so that.
- Condition: if, unless, provided that, in case.
- Concession: although, though, even though, while.
- Purpose: so that, in order that.
Conclusion:
Complex sentences offer variety and depth to writing by allowing for the expression of relationships between ideas. By combining independent and dependent clauses, complex sentences provide a more nuanced understanding of the connections within a sentence, enhancing the clarity and complexity of communication in English.
Related Article: Essential English Grammar Topics