How to Identify a Complex Sentence: Key Tips and Examples
Learn how to tell if a sentence is complex by identifying independent and dependent clauses and using common subordinating conjunctions.
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A complex sentence contains one independent clause and at least one dependent clause, connected by subordinating conjunctions like 'because,' 'since,' 'after,' or 'although.' You can tell if a sentence is complex if it expresses a complete thought (independent clause) and an incomplete thought (dependent clause) that provides additional information. Look for keywords that introduce dependent clauses and check if the sentence could be split into separate sentences that convey a complete idea on their own.
FAQs & Answers
- What is a complex sentence? A complex sentence contains one independent clause and at least one dependent clause, connected by subordinating conjunctions, expressing both complete and additional information.
- How can I identify dependent clauses in a sentence? Dependent clauses often start with subordinating conjunctions like 'because,' 'since,' or 'although' and cannot stand alone as a complete sentence.
- What are common subordinating conjunctions used in complex sentences? Common subordinating conjunctions include 'because,' 'since,' 'after,' 'although,' 'if,' and 'when,' which connect dependent clauses to independent clauses.
- Can a complex sentence be split into two sentences? Yes, usually a complex sentence can be split into an independent clause that stands alone and a dependent clause that provides additional information.