Declarative sentence

Definition

A declarative sentence is a statement that conveys information or expresses an idea, and it always ends with a period. This type of sentence is used to provide facts, opinions, or thoughts and is one of the four main types of sentences in English grammar. Declarative sentences are essential for clear communication, as they form the basis for expressing assertions and sharing information.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Declarative sentences can be simple, compound, or complex, allowing for varied expression while still conveying statements.
2. They always begin with a capital letter, emphasizing the start of the statement.
3. In writing, declarative sentences help to create clear and concise communication, making them fundamental in academic and professional contexts.
4. They can express positive or negative statements, depending on the information being conveyed.
5. Understanding how to use declarative sentences effectively is crucial for constructing well-formed paragraphs and essays.

Review Questions

• How do declarative sentences differ from interrogative sentences in terms of structure and function?
  • Declarative sentences state information or express ideas and always end with a period, while interrogative sentences are designed to ask questions and end with a question mark. The structure of declarative sentences is straightforward, usually following a subject-verb-object format. In contrast, interrogative sentences often rearrange this structure or use auxiliary verbs to form questions, highlighting the different purposes these two types of sentences serve in communication.
• Explain how declarative sentences contribute to effective writing in both academic and professional contexts.
  • Declarative sentences are vital for effective writing because they provide clear statements of fact or opinion, which helps readers understand the writer's message. In academic writing, using declarative sentences can enhance clarity by presenting arguments and evidence straightforwardly. In professional communication, such as emails or reports, declarative sentences facilitate directness and precision, ensuring that the intended information is conveyed without ambiguity.
• Evaluate the impact of using varied types of sentences, including declarative sentences, on the overall coherence and engagement of written texts.
  • Using varied types of sentences, including declarative sentences, enhances both coherence and engagement in written texts. Declarative sentences provide essential information and context, while other types like interrogative or exclamatory can add depth and interest. By mixing these sentence types strategically, writers can maintain the reader's attention and create a dynamic flow that keeps the audience engaged. This variation also helps to clarify relationships between ideas, making arguments more compelling and easier to follow.

Related terms

interrogative sentence:

An interrogative sentence asks a question and typically ends with a question mark.

imperative sentence: An imperative sentence gives a command or makes a request, often starting with a verb and usually ending with a period or exclamation mark.

exclamatory sentence: An exclamatory sentence expresses strong emotion and ends with an exclamation mark.