Simple, Compound, Complex and Compound-Complex Sentences

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What is a simple sentence?

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A simple sentence consists of a single independent clause with no dependent clauses. It contains a subject and a predicate.

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What is a compound sentence?

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A compound sentence consists of two or more independent clauses joined by a coordinating conjunction (for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so) or a semicolon.

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What is a complex sentence?

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A complex sentence consists of one independent clause and at least one dependent clause.

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What is a compound-complex sentence?

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A compound-complex sentence contains at least two independent clauses and at least one dependent clause.

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What is the purpose of coordinating conjunctions in compound sentences?

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Coordinating conjunctions connect independent clauses to show a relationship between them.

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What is the difference between an independent clause and a dependent clause?

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An independent clause can stand alone as a complete sentence, while a dependent clause cannot stand alone and depends on an independent clause.

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Can a compound sentence be made up of complex sentences?

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Yes, a compound sentence can consist of two or more complex sentences joined by coordinating conjunctions.

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What punctuation is used to separate independent clauses in a compound sentence?

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A comma is used before the coordinating conjunction to separate independent clauses in a compound sentence.

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What is an example of a simple sentence?

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"The dog barks." This is a simple sentence with one independent clause.

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What is an example of a compound sentence?

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"I wanted to go for a walk, but it started to rain." This is a compound sentence with two independent clauses.