Complex_sentence

A complex sentence is a sentence with an independent clause and at least one dependent clause (subordinating clause). The dependent clause is introduced by either a subordinate conjunction such as although, or because or a relative pronoun such as who or which.

Examples

• When I saw what you had done, I was sad.
  • Independent clause: I was sad
  • Dependent clause: When I saw what you had done

• Knowing that you hate me makes me sad.
  • A complex sentence with a sub-clause functioning as a subject.
  • Independent clause: (subject) makes me sad.
  • Dependent clause: That you hate me (acting as the subject)

• It makes me happy that you love me.
  • A clefted complex sentence with a sub-clause indicating what the dummy pronoun "It" refers to.
  • Independent clause: It makes me happy.
  • Dependent clause: that you love me

• The worksheet is where you have put it.
  • A complex sentence with a sub-clause functioning as subject complement. "Be" is a copula verb; it links the sub-clause to the subject.
  • Independent clause: The worksheet is (complement).
  • Dependent clause: where you have put it (acting as the complement)

• Some voters want special consideration that accounts for their handicaps.
  • This complex sentence\'s subordinate clause is offset by a relative pronoun rather than by a subordinating conjunction. "That" serves a nominal function and serves as a substitute for the noun "consideration" in the independent clause.
  • Independent clause: Some voters want special consideration
  • Dependent clause: that accounts for their handicaps (modifies the noun in the independent clause)

See also

• Simple sentence
• Compound sentence
• Complex-compound sentence

External links

• The Structure of a Sentence

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