Complex sentence

Definition

A complex sentence is a sentence that contains one independent clause and at least one dependent clause, which cannot stand alone as a complete thought. This structure allows for more nuanced expressions of ideas by combining different clauses, showcasing the relationship between them. By using complex sentences, writers can convey detailed information and add depth to their writing.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Complex sentences often begin with subordinating conjunctions like 'although,' 'because,' or 'since,' which signal the start of the dependent clause.
2. Using complex sentences can improve writing style by allowing for more sophisticated connections between ideas, enhancing clarity and engagement.
3. A complex sentence can convey cause and effect relationships, making it easier to explain why something happens.
4. Complex sentences are often used in academic writing to present arguments or evidence in a more detailed manner.
5. Writers should be cautious about overusing complex sentences, as too many can make writing convoluted and harder to follow.

Review Questions

• How does the structure of a complex sentence enhance the clarity of writing?
  • The structure of a complex sentence enhances clarity by allowing writers to express intricate ideas and relationships between different pieces of information. By combining an independent clause with a dependent clause, writers can provide context or detail that supports the main idea, making it easier for readers to understand the connections being made. This variety in sentence structure helps keep readers engaged and improves overall comprehension.
• Compare complex sentences with compound sentences in terms of their use in effective writing.
  • Complex sentences differ from compound sentences primarily in their structure and function. While complex sentences combine an independent clause with at least one dependent clause, compound sentences connect two or more independent clauses. Complex sentences allow for more nuanced explanations and relationships between ideas, which can deepen the reader's understanding. In contrast, compound sentences are useful for presenting multiple related ideas equally, but they may lack the depth that complex sentences provide.
• Evaluate how effectively using complex sentences can influence the quality of academic writing.
  • Effectively using complex sentences significantly influences the quality of academic writing by allowing authors to present detailed arguments and intricate relationships between concepts. This style not only enhances the depth of analysis but also facilitates clearer communication of complex ideas. By incorporating varied sentence structures, including complex sentences, writers can maintain reader interest and demonstrate their critical thinking abilities, ultimately elevating the overall sophistication and persuasiveness of their work.

Related terms

independent clause: A group of words that contains a subject and a verb and expresses a complete thought, standing alone as a sentence.

dependent clause:

A group of words that contains a subject and a verb but does not express a complete thought, requiring an independent clause to form a complete sentence.

compound sentence:

A sentence that consists of two or more independent clauses joined by a coordinating conjunction or a semicolon.