A basic sentence in English expresses a complete thought and typically includes a subject and a predicate.
- The subject is who or what the sentence is about.
- The predicate tells something about the subject, usually containing a verb.
Simple Sentences
A simple sentence has one subject and one predicate. It can also include objects, complements, and modifiers, but it expresses just one main idea.
- Structure: Subject + Verb (+ Object/Complement)
- Example: She (subject) reads (verb) books (object).
Simple sentences contain one subject and one verb, expressing a single idea.
Compound Sentences
A compound sentence joins two or more independent clauses (each could be a simple sentence) using coordinating conjunctions (for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so) or a semicolon.
- Structure: Clause + Conjunction + Clause
- Example: I wanted to go out, but it started to rain.
Compound sentences have two or more independent clauses joined by coordinating conjunctions.
Complex Sentences
A complex sentence contains one independent clause and at least one dependent clause (which cannot stand alone). Dependent clauses often begin with subordinating conjunctions (because, although, when, if, since).
- Structure: Independent Clause + Dependent Clause (or vice versa)
- Example: Although it was late, she kept working.
A complex sentence includes an independent clause and a dependent clause.
Conclusion
Understanding basic sentence structures is essential for mastering English grammar and improving both writing and speaking skills.
- Simple sentences express one idea with a subject and verb.
- Compound sentences connect multiple independent ideas.
- Complex sentences combine independent and dependent ideas.
Exercises
- Identify if the sentence is simple, compound, or complex: "I like coffee, but my sister prefers tea."
- Write a simple sentence about your favorite food.
- Create a complex sentence using "because."