Sentence Basics #2: Complex Sentences

Summary

In this lesson, the concept of complex sentences is explored, emphasizing the difference between independent and dependent clauses. Independent clauses are complete thoughts, while dependent clauses rely on others for context. Complex sentences are formed by combining these clauses, with the dependent clause appearing at the beginning, middle, or end of the sentence. The lesson explains how commas are used in these structures, especially when the dependent clause is at the beginning or interrupts the sentence. This engaging overview helps clarify how to form grammatically correct complex sentences and use punctuation effectively.

Takeaways

• 😀 Independent clauses are complete sentences that can stand alone and contain a subject, verb, and object.
• 😀 Dependent clauses are incomplete fragments that need an independent clause to make sense.
• 😀 A complex sentence consists of an independent clause and a dependent clause.
• 😀 An introductory phrase is a dependent clause that comes before the independent clause in a complex sentence (e.g., 'When he was young, Michael loved pizza').
• 😀 Dependent clauses can appear in the middle of a sentence as an interrupter phrase (e.g., 'Michael, when he was young, loved pizza').
• 😀 When a dependent clause is at the end of a sentence, it doesn't require a comma (e.g., 'Michael loved pizza when he was young').
• 😀 A comma is used after an introductory phrase to separate it from the independent clause.
• 😀 Comma usage is unnecessary when the dependent clause comes at the end of the sentence because it doesn't interrupt the flow.
• 😀 A complex sentence is formed by adding a dependent clause to a complete independent clause, which may influence the meaning and structure.
• 😀 The term 'appositive' is used to give additional information about a subject, though it's not crucial for basic grammar understanding.

Q & A

What is the difference between independent and dependent clauses?

An independent clause is a complete sentence that can stand on its own, containing a subject, verb, and expressing a complete thought. A dependent clause, however, is incomplete and cannot stand alone; it requires an independent clause to form a full sentence.

What makes a sentence complex?

A sentence becomes complex when it contains both an independent clause (a complete sentence) and a dependent clause (an incomplete thought).

What is an introductory phrase in the context of complex sentences?

An introductory phrase is a dependent clause that precedes an independent clause, setting the stage for the main sentence. For example, 'When he was young, Michael loved pizza.'

How is a dependent clause different when it functions as an introductory phrase compared to an interrupter?

When a dependent clause functions as an introductory phrase, it comes before the independent clause, and a comma is typically used. As an interrupter, the dependent clause is inserted into the middle of the independent clause, and commas are placed around it.

Can a dependent clause appear at the end of a sentence? How does that affect punctuation?

Yes, a dependent clause can appear at the end of a sentence. In this case, a comma is not needed unless it is necessary for clarity or stylistic purposes.

Why is the phrase 'when he was young' considered a dependent clause?

'When he was young' is a dependent clause because it is an incomplete thought. It requires more information to make sense, such as 'Michael loved pizza.' The word 'when' makes the clause dependent.

What role does the subject and verb play in a dependent clause?

In a dependent clause, the subject and verb are present, but the clause still cannot stand alone as a complete sentence. It relies on an independent clause to complete its meaning.

What happens if two independent clauses are joined together with just a comma?

If two independent clauses are joined with just a comma, it creates a comma splice, which is grammatically incorrect. A semicolon or conjunction should be used instead to properly connect them.

What is an appositive, and how does it relate to complex sentences?

An appositive is a phrase that provides additional information about a subject. In the context of complex sentences, it can function similarly to a dependent clause that adds detail, like 'When he was young' explaining Michael's love of pizza.

What is a common mistake when forming complex sentences with commas?

A common mistake is using a comma incorrectly, such as inserting one where it's not necessary. For instance, placing a comma between two independent clauses without a conjunction creates a comma splice.