Simple, Compound, Complex, and Compound-Complex Sentences

Front

What is a simple sentence?

Back

A simple sentence has one independent clause that can stand alone as a complete thought.

Front

What is a compound sentence?

Back

A compound sentence has two independent clauses connected by a conjunction or a semicolon.

Front

What is a complex sentence?

Back

A complex sentence has one independent clause and at least one subordinate clause.

Front

What is a compound-complex sentence?

Back

A compound-complex sentence has at least two independent clauses and at least one subordinate clause.

Front

Example of a simple sentence.

Back

Hughes's grandmother shared her love of literature with him.

Front

Example of a compound sentence.

Back

I like the Eagles, but they had a rough year.

Front

Example of a complex sentence.

Back

Even though I have Jolly Ranchers, there aren't very many left.

Front

Example of a compound-complex sentence.

Back

I won't change my mind, but you can ask someone else if you don't like my answer.

Front

What connects independent clauses in a compound sentence?

Back

Conjunctions (like 'and', 'but', 'or') or a semicolon.

Front

What is a subordinate clause?

Back

A subordinate clause cannot stand alone as a complete sentence and depends on an independent clause.