Simple, Compound, Complex Sentences

Front

What is a simple sentence?

Back

A simple sentence contains one independent clause and expresses a complete thought.

Front

Example of a simple sentence.

Back

The dog barks.

Front

What is a compound sentence?

Back

A compound sentence contains at least two independent clauses joined by a coordinating conjunction.

Front

Example of a compound sentence.

Back

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

Front

What is a complex sentence?

Back

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

Front

Example of a complex sentence.

Back

Although it was raining, we decided to go for a hike.

Front

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.

Front

What is a dependent clause?

Back

A dependent clause cannot stand alone as a sentence; it does not express a complete thought.

Front

What is a coordinating conjunction?

Back

A coordinating conjunction connects words, phrases, or independent clauses. Examples include 'and', 'but', and 'or'.

Front

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

Back

A semicolon can be used to connect two independent clauses without a coordinating conjunction.