Compound Sentences

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What is a compound sentence?

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A compound sentence is a sentence that contains at least two independent clauses joined by a coordinating conjunction (for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so) or a semicolon.

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What is a coordinating conjunction?

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A coordinating conjunction is a word that connects two independent clauses in a compound sentence. The seven coordinating conjunctions are for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so.

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How do you punctuate a compound sentence?

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A compound sentence is punctuated with a comma before the coordinating conjunction or a semicolon between the independent clauses.

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What is a semicolon?

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A semicolon is a punctuation mark (;) used to connect closely related independent clauses or to separate items in a complex list.

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What is a conjunctive adverb?

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A conjunctive adverb is a word that connects two independent clauses and shows the relationship between them, often followed by a comma. Examples include however, therefore, and moreover.

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How do you use a semicolon with a conjunctive adverb?

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When using a semicolon with a conjunctive adverb, place the semicolon before the conjunctive adverb and a comma after it. For example: 'I wanted to go; however, I was too tired.'

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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.

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What is the difference between a compound sentence and a simple sentence?

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A simple sentence contains only one independent clause, while a compound sentence contains two or more independent clauses.

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Can a compound sentence have more than two independent clauses?

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Yes, a compound sentence can have three or more independent clauses joined by coordinating conjunctions or semicolons.

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What is an example of a compound sentence?

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