Complex Sentences

Front

What is a complex sentence?

Back

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

Front

What is an independent clause?

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An independent clause is a group of words that can stand alone as a sentence. It has a subject and a verb.

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What is a dependent clause?

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A dependent clause is a group of words that cannot stand alone as a sentence. It has a subject and a verb but does not express a complete thought.

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Identify the independent clause in this sentence: 'Although it was raining, we went for a walk.'

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The independent clause is 'we went for a walk.'

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Identify the dependent clause in this sentence: 'Because I was tired, I went to bed early.'

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The dependent clause is 'Because I was tired.'

Front

What punctuation is often used to separate the independent and dependent clauses in a complex sentence?

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A comma is often used to separate the independent and dependent clauses.

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Give an example of a complex sentence.

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'When the sun sets, the sky turns orange.'

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What is the role of a dependent clause in a complex sentence?

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The dependent clause provides additional information but cannot stand alone.

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Can a complex sentence have more than one dependent clause?

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Yes, a complex sentence can have multiple dependent clauses.

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Identify the type of clause: 'If it rains tomorrow.'

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This is a dependent clause.