Complex Sentences: Understanding and Using Them in Writing

A complex sentence is a sentence that consists of one independent clause and at least one dependent clause. The independent clause is a complete thought and can stand alone as a sentence, while the dependent clause cannot stand alone and relies on the independent clause to make sense. In this article, we will discuss the structure of complex sentences, types, and examples of how they can be used in writing.

The Structure of Complex Sentences

Complex sentences consist of an independent clause (which contains a subject and verb and expresses a complete thought) and one or more dependent clauses (which also contain a subject and verb but do not express a complete thought). The dependent clause can come at the beginning, middle, or end of the sentence and can be introduced by subordinating conjunctions such as "after," "although," "because," "since," "when," "while," etc.

Here are some examples of complex sentences:

• After I finish my homework, I'm going to the cinema.
• Although he was tired, he continued working.
• Because it was raining, we decided to stay inside.
• Since you're already here, why don't you stay for dinner?
• When she arrived, everyone else had already left.
• While I was walking in the park, I saw a beautiful bird.

The Types of Complex Sentences

There are several types of complex sentences that you can use in your writing depending on your intended purpose.

Adverbial Clauses

An adverbial clause modifies the action described in the independent clause. It provides more information about when, where, why, or under what conditions the action is taking place. Adverbial clauses are introduced by subordinating conjunctions such as "after," "although," "as," "because," "before," "if," "since," "until," "when," "where," and "while."

Examples:

• Before I go to bed, I always brush my teeth.
• As soon as the movie ends, we'll head home.
• Because she was feeling sick, she stayed home from work.

Relative Clauses

A relative clause modifies a noun or pronoun in the independent clause and provides more information about it. Relative clauses are introduced by relative pronouns such as "that," "which," "who," "whom," and "whose."

Examples:

• The book that I read last summer was amazing.
• The lady who lives next door is a doctor.
• The car, which was parked outside, had a flat tire.

Noun Clauses

A noun clause acts as a noun in the sentence and can function as the subject, object, or complement of the independent clause. Noun clauses are introduced by subordinating conjunctions such as "that," "whether," "if," and "how."

Examples:

• I don't know what to do next.
• She asked whether I wanted to come with her.
• He told me how to get to the nearest gas station.

Using Complex Sentences in Writing

Complex sentences can add depth and detail to your writing by providing more information about the actions or ideas described in the independent clause. They can also help you vary your sentence structure and avoid repetition.

Here are some tips for using complex sentences effectively:

• Vary the placement of the dependent clause in the sentence to create different effects. For example, placing it at the beginning can create a sense of anticipation or suspense, while placing it at the end can create a sense of resolution or conclusion.
• Use different types of dependent clauses to provide specific details. For example, use adverbial clauses to describe when, where, or why an action is taking place, and use relative clauses to provide more information about a noun or pronoun in the independent clause.
• Be careful not to create run-on sentences by joining too many independent clauses with dependent clauses. Use proper punctuation and conjunctions to connect the clauses effectively.

In Conclusion

Complex sentences can be a valuable tool in your writing arsenal. They provide a way to add depth and detail to your writing and can help you vary your sentence structure. By understanding the structure and types of complex sentences, you can use them effectively to communicate your ideas and express yourself clearly.