What Is a Complex Sentence in English Grammar? Definition & Examples
Learn what a complex sentence in English grammar is, its structure with independent and dependent clauses, and examples to improve your writing.
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A complex sentence in English grammar is a sentence that contains one independent clause (a complete thought that stands alone) and at least one dependent clause (a phrase that can't stand alone as a complete sentence). It’s used to add depth to writing, incorporating much more information than what simple or compound sentences might offer. For instance, 'Although it rained all day, we still went to the park,' combines an independent clause with a dependent clause introduced by the conjunction 'although'.
FAQs & Answers
- What is the difference between a complex and a compound sentence? A complex sentence contains one independent clause and at least one dependent clause, while a compound sentence has two or more independent clauses joined by a conjunction.
- How do dependent clauses function in complex sentences? Dependent clauses add extra information to the main idea but cannot stand alone as complete sentences, often introduced by subordinating conjunctions like although, because, or since.
- Can you give an example of a complex sentence? Yes. For example: 'Although it rained all day, we still went to the park' combines an independent clause with a dependent clause.