Complex Sentences

Front

What is a complex sentence?

Back

A complex sentence is a sentence that contains one independent clause and at least one dependent clause.

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What is a subordinating conjunction?

Back

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

Front

What does AAAWWUUBBIS stand for?

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AAAWWUUBBIS stands for: Although, After, As, When, While, Until, Because, Before, If, Since. These are common subordinating conjunctions.

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What is an independent clause?

Back

An independent clause is a group of words that can stand alone as a sentence. It has a subject and a verb and expresses a complete thought.

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What is a dependent clause?

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A dependent clause is a group of words that cannot stand alone as a sentence. It has a subject and a verb but does not express a complete thought.

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When do you use a comma in a complex sentence?

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A comma is used before the subordinating conjunction if the dependent clause comes before the independent clause.

Front

Can a complex sentence start with a dependent clause?

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Yes, a complex sentence can start with a dependent clause, followed by a comma and then the independent clause.

Front

What is the purpose of a subordinating conjunction?

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The purpose of a subordinating conjunction is to show the relationship between the dependent clause and the independent clause.

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Identify the independent clause: 'Whenever it rains, I stay inside.'

Back

The independent clause is 'I stay inside.'

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Identify the dependent clause: 'Although I was tired.'

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The dependent clause is 'Although I was tired.' It cannot stand alone as a complete sentence.