Complex Sentences Quiz

What is a complex sentence?

• A sentence that contains no clauses

• A sentence that is very difficult

• A sentence with more than one part

• A sentence with only one part

Answer explanation

A complex sentence is defined as a sentence that contains more than one part, specifically one independent clause and at least one dependent clause. This distinguishes it from simple sentences, which have only one part.

Which of the following is an example of a main clause?

• Although he liked ice cream.

• And the man knew this.

• His wife was ill.

• Even though she hadn’t told him.

Answer explanation

A main clause expresses a complete thought and can stand alone. 'His wife was ill.' is a main clause, while the other options are dependent clauses that cannot stand alone.

Which of the following is a subordinating conjunction?

• But

• Or

• And

• Although

Answer explanation

The correct answer is 'Although' because it is a subordinating conjunction that introduces a dependent clause, while 'But', 'Or', and 'And' are coordinating conjunctions that connect equal parts of a sentence.

What is a comma splice?

• Linking two main clauses with a conjunction

• Linking two main clauses with only a comma

• A fragment without a main clause

• A type of complex sentence

Answer explanation

A comma splice occurs when two independent clauses are joined by only a comma, without a coordinating conjunction. This is incorrect punctuation, making 'Linking two main clauses with only a comma' the correct choice.

Which of the following sentences is a fragment?

• He felt rather guilty.

• Even though his arguments were valid.

• The man went to the zoo.

• I like bikes.

Answer explanation

The sentence 'Even though his arguments were valid.' is a fragment because it is a dependent clause and does not express a complete thought. The other sentences are complete and can stand alone.

What is the purpose of using subordinating conjunctions?

• To avoid using fragments

• To create simple sentences

• To link one main clause to one sub-clause

• To link two main clauses

Answer explanation

Subordinating conjunctions are used to link one main clause to one sub-clause, allowing for complex sentences that show the relationship between ideas. This is essential for adding depth and detail to writing.

Which of the following is NOT a coordinating conjunction?

• And

• Yet

• Because

• For

Answer explanation

'Because' is a subordinating conjunction, used to introduce dependent clauses, while 'and', 'yet', and 'for' are coordinating conjunctions that connect words or clauses of equal importance.

What is the correct way to combine the sentences: 'We all wanted to have the lesson outside.' and 'The teacher agreed.'?

• The teacher agreed, we all wanted to have the lesson outside.

• The teacher agreed to have the lesson outside.

• We all wanted to have the lesson outside, the teacher agreed.

• The teacher agreed and we all wanted to have the lesson outside.

Answer explanation

The correct choice is 'The teacher agreed to have the lesson outside.' because it clearly combines both ideas into a single, coherent statement, indicating the teacher's agreement with the desire to hold the lesson outside.

Which of the following is an example of a complex sentence?

• Even though she hadn’t told him, the man knew.

• His wife was ill and the man knew this.

• He felt rather guilty.

• I love a big breakfast.

Answer explanation

A complex sentence contains an independent clause and at least one dependent clause. 'Even though she hadn’t told him, the man knew.' has both, making it a complex sentence, while the others are simple or compound.

What is the function of a subordinate clause?

• To act as a fragment

• To replace the main clause

• To provide additional information to the main clause

• To stand alone as a complete sentence

Answer explanation

A subordinate clause provides additional information to the main clause, enhancing the meaning of the sentence. It cannot stand alone and is dependent on the main clause, making it essential for context.