Complex sentences are sentences that contain one independent clause (a clause that can stand on its own as a complete sentence) and one or more dependent clauses (clauses that cannot stand on their own as a complete sentence). They are used to convey a single main idea with additional information or detail.
Definition
A complex sentence is a type of sentence that contains one independent clause and one or more dependent clauses. It is used to convey a single main idea with additional information or detail.
Usage
Complex sentences are used to convey a single main idea with additional information or detail. They are typically used to add detail or context to the main idea.
Examples
- “I am going to the store because I need to pick up some milk.” (This sentence conveys the main idea that the speaker is going to the store, with the additional detail that the speaker needs to pick up some milk.)
- “The sun is shining today, although the forecast said it would rain.” (This sentence conveys the main idea that the sun is shining, with the additional detail that the forecast said it would rain.)
- “I have a meeting at 10 AM, which means I need to finish my presentation before then.” (This sentence conveys the main idea that the speaker has a meeting at a specific time, with the additional detail that the speaker needs to finish their presentation before then.)
- “I think pizza is the best food in the world, even though some people might disagree.” (This sentence conveys the main idea that the speaker thinks pizza is the best food, with the additional detail that some people might disagree.)
- “The cat is sleeping on the couch, while the dog is lying on the floor.” (This sentence conveys the main idea that the cat is sleeping on the couch, with the additional detail that the dog is lying on the floor.)
More Examples
Here are some examples of complex sentences using some subordinating conjunctions:
- “I am going to the store because I need to pick up some milk.” (using “because”)
- “The sun is shining today, although the forecast said it would rain.” (using “although”)
- “I have a meeting at 10 AM, which means I need to finish my presentation before then.” (using “which”)
- “I think pizza is the best food in the world, even though some people might disagree.” (using “even though”)
- “The cat is sleeping on the couch, while the dog is lying on the floor.” (using “while”)
- “I’ll go to the store as soon as I finish my work.” (using “as soon as”)
- “I’ll meet you at the park if you promise to be on time.” (using “if”)
- “I’ll bring my umbrella because it’s supposed to rain later.” (using “because”)