Simple, Compound, and Complex Sentences

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What is a simple sentence?

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A simple sentence contains a subject and a verb and expresses a complete thought. Example: 'The dog barks.'

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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 (FANBOYS). 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 are coordinating conjunctions?

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Coordinating conjunctions are words that connect words, phrases, or clauses of equal importance. The main coordinating conjunctions are: for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so (FANBOYS).

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How can you identify a complex sentence?

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A complex sentence can be identified by the presence of a dependent clause, which often starts with a subordinating conjunction like 'because,' 'although,' or 'when.'

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What is the purpose of a comma in a compound sentence?

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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 play outside, but it was too cold.'

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Can a simple sentence have a compound subject?

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Yes, a simple sentence can have a compound subject, which means it has two or more subjects that share the same verb. Example: 'Tom and Jerry are friends.'

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What is a dependent clause?

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A dependent clause is a group of words that has 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 has 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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What is the difference between a compound and a complex sentence?

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A compound sentence has two or more independent clauses, while a complex sentence has one independent clause and at least one dependent clause.