Fragments

Definition

Fragments are incomplete sentences that lack a main clause or do not express a complete thought. They often result from leaving out essential parts of a sentence, like a subject or a verb, making it difficult for the reader to understand the intended meaning. Fragments can occur in various contexts, including spoken language and written text, and can disrupt the flow of communication.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Fragments often occur when a writer tries to add extra information without properly connecting it to the main idea, which can confuse readers.
2. Common types of fragments include those that begin with subordinating conjunctions, such as 'because,' 'although,' or 'when,' which make them dependent clauses.
3. Writers can fix fragments by joining them with independent clauses or revising them to include all necessary elements for completeness.
4. In informal writing, fragments might be used stylistically for emphasis or effect, but they should generally be avoided in formal writing.
5. Recognizing fragments is crucial for effective editing and improving the clarity of one's writing.

Review Questions

• How can recognizing fragments improve your writing skills?
  • Recognizing fragments is essential for enhancing writing skills because it allows writers to identify incomplete thoughts that can disrupt clarity. By understanding what constitutes a fragment, writers can revise their work to ensure that every sentence conveys a complete idea. This not only strengthens the overall coherence of their writing but also aids in effective communication with the audience.
• What strategies can be employed to correct fragments in writing?
  • To correct fragments, writers can employ several strategies such as combining them with nearby independent clauses or rewriting them to include missing subjects or verbs. Additionally, using punctuation correctly is vital; for instance, transforming dependent clauses into complete sentences by attaching them to an independent clause can eliminate fragmentation. This ensures that all ideas are expressed fully and clearly in the text.
• Evaluate the impact of using fragments in different writing contexts, considering both formal and informal scenarios.
  • The impact of using fragments varies significantly between formal and informal writing contexts. In formal writing, such as academic papers or professional documents, fragments can lead to misunderstandings and diminish the credibility of the work. On the other hand, in informal settings like creative writing or personal blogs, fragments may be used purposefully for stylistic effect, creating emphasis or capturing conversational tones. Understanding when and how to use fragments appropriately can greatly enhance a writer's versatility.

Related terms

independent clause: A group of words that contains a subject and a predicate and can stand alone as a complete sentence.

dependent clause:

A group of words that contains a subject and a verb but cannot stand alone as a complete sentence; it relies on an independent clause.

run-on sentence: A sentence that combines two or more independent clauses without proper punctuation or conjunctions, leading to confusion in meaning.