What Is a Complex Sentence?
A complex sentence is made up of one independent clause, which can stand alone as a complete thought, and at least one dependent clause that cannot. The dependent clause is used to provide further details, explanations, or examples related to the main idea expressed in the independent clause.
For example, in the sentence:
Although it was blazing hot outside, we decided to go out for a walk.
Complex sentences are easy to use once you understand them. WRITERS AT WORK students will have the opportunity to study the differences between simple and complex sentences, independent and dependent clauses, and provide many examples of complex sentences.
Independent VS. Dependent Clauses: What’s the Difference?
You may be familiar with common subordinating conjunctions like because, since, if, until, when, even though, in case, while, now that, as well as certain uses of the prepositions before and after. WRITERS AT WORK students will have their fair share of practice and opportunities to employ all these conjunctions in their English composition writing, whether they may be tackling PSLE or O Level examinations.
For instance:
“You cannot leave the school.”
This implies a permanent stay at school if read on its own. However, when we introduce a dependent clause like:
“Until the bell rings, you cannot leave the school.”
Then the main point is then clarified.
This example illustrates how dependent clauses can modify the meaning of an independent clause.
The distinction between simple and complex sentences is relatively straightforward. A simple sentence consists of just one independent clause; any sentence with more than one clause (such as a complex sentence) cannot be considered simple. It’s worth noting that two simple sentences can sometimes be combined into one complex sentence if they are logically connected and a subordinate conjunction is used.
Example of a simple sentence:
Tommy ate a giant cookie.
He got a stomach ache.
Example of a complex sentence:
After Tommy ate a giant cookie, he got a stomach ache.
Complex sentences can be tricky, but WRITERS AT WORK helps students understand the basic grammar rules and makes it easier. WRITERS AT WORK seeks to make students better learners through organisation skills, reflection, and understanding of how we process information. Are the PSLE or O Level English exams on the horizon? Let us take care of your child’s English results! Join us at our tuition centres to be a part of the best English enrichment courses for primary and secondary school students in Singapore.
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