Simple, 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 expresses a complete thought. Example: 'The cat sleeps.'

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What is a compound sentence?

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A compound sentence contains at least two independent clauses joined by a coordinating conjunction (for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so). Example: 'I wanted to go for a walk, but it started to rain.'

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What is a complex sentence?

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A complex sentence contains one independent clause and at least one dependent clause. Example: 'Although it was raining, we went for a walk.'

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What is a subordinating conjunction?

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A subordinating conjunction is a word that connects an independent clause with a dependent clause. Examples include 'because,' 'although,' 'if,' and 'when.'

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What is a dependent clause?

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A dependent clause is a group of words that has both a subject and a verb but does not express a complete thought. It cannot stand alone as a sentence. Example: 'Because I was late.'

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What is an independent clause?

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An independent clause is a group of words that contains a subject and a verb and expresses a complete thought. It can stand alone as a sentence. Example: 'I finished my homework.'

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When is a comma required with a subordinating conjunction?

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A comma is required when a subordinating conjunction starts a sentence. Example: 'Although it was late, I decided to go for a walk.'

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Do relative pronouns start dependent clauses?

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Yes, relative pronouns (that, which, who, whom, whose) can start dependent clauses, providing additional information about a noun.

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What is a coordinating conjunction?

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A coordinating conjunction connects words, phrases, or independent clauses. The main coordinating conjunctions are for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so (FANBOYS).

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What is the purpose of a comma in compound sentences?

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A comma is used before the coordinating conjunction in a compound sentence to separate the independent clauses. Example: 'I wanted to go, but I was too tired.'