Simple, Compound, and Complex Sentences

Front

What is a simple sentence?

Back

A simple sentence is one independent clause that expresses a complete thought.

Front

What is a compound sentence?

Back

A compound sentence consists of two independent clauses joined by a coordinating conjunction (FANBOYS).

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What is a complex sentence?

Back

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

Front

What is a dependent clause?

Back

A dependent clause is a group of words that cannot stand alone as a sentence and usually begins with a subordinating conjunction.

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What is an independent clause?

Back

An independent clause is a group of words that can stand alone as a complete sentence.

Front

What is a subordinating conjunction?

Back

A subordinating conjunction is a word that connects a dependent clause to an independent clause, such as 'because', 'although', or 'when'.

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What is a coordinating conjunction?

Back

A coordinating conjunction is a word that connects words, phrases, or independent clauses, such as 'and', 'but', or 'or'.

Front

What punctuation is used when a dependent clause comes first in a complex sentence?

Back

A comma is used to separate the dependent clause from the independent clause.

Front

Give an example of a simple sentence.

Back

The dog barks.

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Give an example of a compound sentence.

Back

I wanted to go for a walk, but it started to rain.