Compound sentence

Definition

A compound sentence is a type of sentence that contains at least two independent clauses joined by a coordinating conjunction or a semicolon. This structure allows writers to express related ideas in a single sentence, creating variety and enhancing the flow of writing. Using compound sentences effectively can improve clarity and add complexity to writing.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Compound sentences enhance writing by allowing the combination of two related ideas without losing clarity.
2. They are often formed using coordinating conjunctions like 'and,' 'but,' or 'or' to connect independent clauses.
3. A compound sentence can also be created with a semicolon when two independent clauses are closely related.
4. Using compound sentences can help to break up longer, more complicated sentences, making writing more accessible.
5. Writers should be careful not to overuse compound sentences, as excessive use can lead to run-on sentences.

Review Questions

• How do compound sentences contribute to the overall structure and variety in writing?
  • Compound sentences contribute to the structure and variety in writing by allowing writers to connect multiple related ideas within a single sentence. This helps to create a smoother flow and improves readability. By varying sentence structure with compound sentences, writers can maintain the reader's interest and effectively convey more complex thoughts.
• Evaluate the impact of using coordinating conjunctions in forming compound sentences on the clarity of written communication.
  • Using coordinating conjunctions in forming compound sentences significantly enhances clarity in written communication. These conjunctions help link two independent clauses that express related ideas, making it easier for readers to understand the connection between them. When used appropriately, they prevent the confusion that can arise from overly long or fragmented sentences, thus improving overall comprehension.
• Synthesize examples of compound and complex sentences to demonstrate their differences and explain their roles in effective writing.
  • To illustrate the difference between compound and complex sentences, consider the following: A compound sentence might be 'I wanted to go for a walk, but it started to rain,' which connects two independent clauses with 'but.' In contrast, a complex sentence such as 'Although it was raining, I decided to stay indoors' includes a dependent clause ('Although it was raining') alongside an independent clause. Both types of sentences play vital roles in effective writing; compound sentences can combine thoughts for emphasis while complex sentences introduce additional detail or context.

Related terms

Independent clause: An independent clause is a group of words that can stand alone as a complete sentence, containing a subject and a predicate.

Coordinating conjunction: A coordinating conjunction is a word that connects words, phrases, or independent clauses of equal importance, commonly represented by the acronym FANBOYS (for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so).

Complex sentence: A complex sentence contains one independent clause and at least one dependent clause, adding depth and detail to the writing.