Sentence in English
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Part A: Main Types of Sentence Structures
In English grammar, there are four main types of sentence structures, based on the number and kind of clauses they contain:
1. Simple Sentence
Contains one independent clause (a complete thought with subject + verb).
Example: She writes every day.
2. Compound Sentence
Contains two or more independent clauses, usually joined by a coordinating conjunction (for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so) or a semicolon.
Example: She writes every day, and she publishes her work online.
3. Complex Sentence
Contains one independent clause and at least one dependent (subordinate) clause.
Example: She writes every day because she wants to improve her skills.
4. Compound–Complex Sentence
Contains two or more independent clauses plus at least one dependent clause.
Example: She writes every day because she wants to improve her skills, and she publishes her work online.
What is a Simple Sentence?
A simple sentence is a sentence that has one independent clause.
It must contain a subject (who/what the sentence is about) and a predicate (the verb and what is said about the subject).
It expresses a complete thought.
It may have compound subjects or compound verbs, but it remains a single clause.
🔹 Key Features
One independent clause (no dependent clause).
Can be short or long.
May have modifiers, phrases, or compound parts, but still only one subject–verb relationship.
🔹 Examples of Simple Sentences
1. Basic form (Subject + Verb)
Birds sing.
The sun rises.
👉 Each has one subject (birds, the sun) and one verb (sing, rises).
2. With Object (Subject + Verb + Object)
She reads books.
They play football.
👉 Still one clause, but the verb has an object (books, football).
3. With Modifiers
The little boy in the red shirt runs quickly.
My best friend from university lives in Toronto.
👉 Longer, but still one subject (boy, friend) and one predicate (runs quickly, lives in Toronto).
4. Compound Subjects
Tom and Jerry are friends.
My brother and I went hiking.
👉 Two subjects share the same verb, but it’s still one independent clause.
5. Compound Verbs
She sings and dances.
They cooked dinner and cleaned the house.
👉 One subject with two verbs, but still a simple sentence.
6. Expanded but still simple
The teacher explained the lesson clearly and answered all the students’ questions.
After lunch, we walked to the park and enjoyed the sunny weather.
👉 These are longer, but they still express one independent clause only.
What is a Compound Sentence?
A compound sentence is a sentence that has two or more independent clauses (complete thoughts), usually joined by:
A coordinating conjunction (for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so → FANBOYS)
A semicolon (;)
A semicolon plus a conjunctive adverb (however, therefore, moreover, etc.)
Each clause could stand alone as a sentence, but in a compound sentence, they’re combined to show the relationship between them.
🔹 Examples of Compound Sentences
1. With Coordinating Conjunctions (FANBOYS)
I wanted to go for a walk, but it started raining.
She studied hard, so she passed the exam.
We can go to the beach, or we can stay home.
👉 Each part is an independent clause joined by a coordinating conjunction.
2. With a Semicolon (;)
The sky was clear; the stars were shining brightly.
He didn’t call; he sent a text instead.
👉 The semicolon joins two related independent clauses without a conjunction.
3. With a Semicolon + Conjunctive Adverb
I wanted to join the team; however, I was too busy with schoolwork.
She loves reading; therefore, she spends most evenings at the library.
We planned everything carefully; nevertheless, the trip was a disaster.
👉 The conjunctive adverb (however, therefore, nevertheless, etc.) shows the logical relationship.
🔹 Key Features of Compound Sentences
At least two independent clauses.
Each clause can stand alone as a complete sentence.
They are joined by FANBOYS, a semicolon, or a semicolon + conjunctive adverb.
🔹 More Examples
I like tea, but he prefers coffee.
You can take the train, or you can drive your car.
She didn’t see the sign; she kept driving.
He works hard; therefore, he succeeds.
What is a Complex Sentence?
A complex sentence has:
One independent clause (a complete thought).
At least one dependent (subordinate) clause (cannot stand alone).
The dependent clause is connected to the independent clause using subordinating conjunctions (because, although, since, if, when, while, unless, etc.) or relative pronouns (who, which, that, whose, etc.).
🔹 Structure of a Complex Sentence
Independent clause + dependent clause
Dependent clause can appear before, after, or inside the independent clause.
🔹 Examples of Complex Sentences
1. Dependent clause at the end
I stayed home because it was raining.
She passed the test although she was nervous.
We will go hiking if the weather is nice.
2. Dependent clause at the beginning
Although it was raining, I went for a walk.
Because she studied hard, she got the highest score.
If you practice every day, you will improve quickly.
👉 Notice the comma is needed when the dependent clause comes first.
3. Relative Clause
The book that you gave me was fascinating.
I met a teacher who inspires me a lot.
This is the house where I grew up.
4. Multiple dependent clauses
I didn’t go to the party because I was tired, although my friends insisted.
She was reading a novel that she had borrowed from the library when I called her.
👉 Still one independent clause, but it has more than one dependent clause attached.
🔹 Key Features of Complex Sentences
One independent clause + at least one dependent clause.
Shows cause–effect, contrast, condition, time, or description.
Uses subordinating conjunctions or relative pronouns.
Clauses are not equal (the independent clause is the main idea; the dependent clause adds extra meaning).
🔹 More Examples
I will call you when I arrive.
He left early so that he could catch the bus.
We couldn’t play outside since it was snowing.
The student who answered the question received a prize.
What is a Compound–Complex Sentence?
A compound–complex sentence combines features of both compound and complex sentences.
It must have:
At least two independent clauses (like a compound sentence).
At least one dependent clause (like a complex sentence).
So, a compound–complex sentence = 2+ independent clauses + 1+ dependent clauses.
🔹 Examples of Compound–Complex Sentences
1. Independent clauses joined + one dependent clause
I wanted to go for a walk, but it started raining because the storm arrived early.
IC1: I wanted to go for a walk
IC2: it started raining
DC: because the storm arrived early
2. Dependent clause at the beginning
Although I was tired, I finished my homework, and I watched a movie afterward.
IC1: I finished my homework
IC2: I watched a movie afterward
DC: Although I was tired
3. Relative clause included
The teacher who inspired me the most encouraged me to study harder, and she also supported my scholarship application.
IC1: The teacher encouraged me to study harder
IC2: She also supported my scholarship application
DC: who inspired me the most
4. With a semicolon + conjunctive adverb
She didn’t see the sign, and she kept driving; as a result, she missed the exit that led to her house.
IC1: She didn’t see the sign
IC2: She kept driving
IC3: she missed the exit
DC: that led to her house
5. More complex layering
We went to the park, and the kids played on the swings until it got dark, while we talked on the bench.
IC1: We went to the park
IC2: the kids played on the swings
DC: until it got dark
DC: while we talked on the bench
🔹 Key Features
Minimum requirement: 2 independent clauses + 1 dependent clause.
Can show multiple relationships: coordination (equal ideas) + subordination (supporting idea).
Often longer and more detailed.
🔹 More Examples
I was cooking dinner when the phone rang, and my brother answered it.
They decided to cancel the trip because it was snowing, but they still met for dinner.
She loves painting, and she practices every weekend because it helps her relax.
Part B: Four Types of Sentences (by Function)
1. Declarative Sentence
Purpose: To make a statement or give information.
Punctuation: Ends with a period (.)
Examples:
The sky is blue.
She enjoys reading novels.
We are traveling to New York tomorrow.
2. Interrogative Sentence
Purpose: To ask a question.
Punctuation: Ends with a question mark (?)
Examples:
What time is it?
Did you finish your homework?
Where are we going for dinner?
3. Imperative Sentence
Purpose: To give a command, request, or instruction.
Punctuation: Usually ends with a period (.), but can also end with an exclamation mark (!) for strong commands.
Examples:
Close the door.
Please sit down.
Stop shouting!
4. Exclamatory Sentence
Purpose: To express strong emotions (surprise, joy, anger, excitement, etc.).
Punctuation: Ends with an exclamation mark (!)
Examples:
What a beautiful day!
I can’t believe we won the game!
That movie was amazing!
What is a Declarative Sentence?
A declarative sentence is the most common type of sentence in English.
It is used to make a statement or give information.
It always ends with a period (.).
The tone is usually neutral, but it can express facts, opinions, or descriptions.
🔹 Features of Declarative Sentences
Purpose: To declare or state something.
Form: Subject + predicate (normal word order).
Punctuation: Always ends with a period (.).
Voice: Can be affirmative (positive) or negative.
🔹 Examples of Declarative Sentences
1. Simple factual statements
The Earth orbits the Sun.
Water boils at 100 degrees Celsius.
She speaks three languages.
2. Personal statements
I love reading novels.
We are moving to Texas next year.
My brother plays the guitar very well.
3. Negative declaratives
She does not like coffee.
I can’t attend the meeting tomorrow.
They never go out on weekdays.
4. Descriptive statements
The garden is full of colorful flowers.
The room looks bright and clean.
The sky turned orange during sunset.
5. Opinion statements
This is the best movie I’ve ever seen.
I believe education is the key to success.
In my view, summer is the most enjoyable season.
What is an Interrogative Sentence?
An interrogative sentence is a sentence that asks a question.
Its purpose is to request information, confirmation, or clarification.
It always ends with a question mark (?).
It may begin with a wh-word (who, what, where, when, why, how) or with an auxiliary/modal verb (do, can, will, etc.).
🔹 Types of Interrogative Sentences + Examples
1. Yes/No Questions
These questions can be answered with “yes” or “no.”
Do you like pizza?
Is she coming with us?
Have you finished your homework?
Can they speak French?
2. Wh- Questions (Information Questions)
These begin with wh-words to request specific information.
What is your name?
Where do you live?
When did the train leave?
Why are you upset?
How does this machine work?
3. Choice Questions
These offer alternatives, usually linked with or.
Do you want tea or coffee?
Should we meet in the morning or in the afternoon?
Is this painting original or a copy?
4. Tag Questions
These are statements turned into questions by adding a short phrase (the “tag”) at the end.
You’re coming with us, aren’t you?
She can drive, can’t she?
They didn’t call, did they?
5. Rhetorical Questions
These are asked for effect, not to get an actual answer.
Who doesn’t love a sunny day?
Isn’t life full of surprises?
How could anyone resist such an offer?
🔹 Key Features of Interrogative Sentences
They seek information or confirmation.
They always end with a question mark (?).
Word order often inverts (auxiliary before subject: Do you…?, Is she…?).
They can be direct (Where are you going?) or indirect (Can you tell me where you are going?).
🔹 More Examples for Practice
Will you help me with this project?
How long will the journey take?
Are you free tomorrow evening?
What kind of books do you enjoy reading?
Could you explain that again?
What is an Imperative Sentence?
An imperative sentence is used to give a command, make a request, offer advice, or give instructions.
The subject “you” is usually understood, even if it’s not written.
It can be firm, polite, or urgent depending on tone.
It usually ends with a period (.), but if it’s strong or urgent, it ends with an exclamation mark (!).
🔹 Types of Imperative Sentences + Examples
1. Commands (direct orders)
Sit down.
Close the window.
Stop talking!
2. Requests (politer form)
Please help me with this bag.
Kindly take a seat.
Pass me the salt, please.
3. Advice or Suggestions
Try to stay calm.
Always check your work before submitting.
Don’t forget to lock the door.
4. Instructions or Directions
Turn right at the next street.
Mix the flour and sugar together.
Press the green button to start the machine.
5. Invitations
Come join us for dinner.
Have a seat and relax.
Come in and make yourself at home.
🔹 Key Features of Imperative Sentences
Purpose: To command, request, or instruct.
Subject: Usually implied (“You”).
Sit down. → (You sit down.)
Punctuation:
Period (.) → Close the door.
Exclamation mark (!) → Hurry up!
🔹 More Examples for Practice
Don’t touch that vase!
Be careful on the stairs.
Take your time and do it well.
Please write your name at the top of the page.
Enjoy your meal!
What is an Exclamatory Sentence?
An exclamatory sentence is used to express strong emotion — such as excitement, surprise, anger, happiness, or fear.
It always ends with an exclamation mark (!)
It can be short or long, but the main feature is the emotion it conveys.
🔹 Features of Exclamatory Sentences
Purpose: To show emotion or emphasis.
Punctuation: Always ends with !
Tone: Strong, emotional, expressive.
Often begins with what or how, but not always.
🔹 Examples of Exclamatory Sentences
1. Expressing Happiness / Excitement
What a beautiful day!
I can’t believe we won the game!
That was an amazing performance!
2. Expressing Surprise
Wow, I didn’t expect that!
How fast he runs!
What a huge building this is!
3. Expressing Anger / Frustration
Stop making so much noise!
That’s so unfair!
How dare you talk to me like that!
4. Expressing Fear / Shock
Watch out for the car!
Oh no, the glass broke!
What a terrible accident!
5. Expressing Admiration
How kind you are!
What a wonderful surprise!
That painting is absolutely stunning!
🔹 Special Note
Some exclamatory sentences look like declaratives but carry emotion with !
Declarative: It’s a nice view.
Exclamatory: It’s a nice view!