Definition

Noun: A sentence composed of at least one main (independent) clause and one subordinate (dependent) clause. The subordinate clause cannot stand alone as a complete sentence and is introduced by a subordinating conjunction (e.g., because, although, when, if) or a relative pronoun (e.g., who, which, that).

Usage

A complex sentence is used to show a relationship between ideas, such as cause and effect, contrast, or time. It allows you to combine a more important idea (in the independent clause) with a supporting or less important idea (in the dependent clause) into a single, more sophisticated sentence.

Examples

• (Independent clause: ; Dependent clause: )
• Although it was raining, we decided to go for a walk. (Dependent clause: ; Independent clause: )
• (Independent clause: ; Dependent clause: )

Advanced Usage

• Punctuation: When the dependent clause comes first, it is usually followed by a comma. When the independent clause comes first, a comma is often not needed.
  • Because the train was delayed, we missed the meeting. (Comma used)
  • We missed the meeting because the train was delayed. (No comma needed)
• Multiple Dependent Clauses: A sentence can contain one independent clause and multiple dependent clauses, making it more intricate but still a single complex sentence.
  • He succeeded because he worked hard even though he faced many obstacles.

Variants and Related Words

• Simple Sentence: A sentence with one independent clause and no dependent clauses (e.g., ).
• Compound Sentence: A sentence composed of two or more independent clauses joined by a coordinating conjunction (e.g., , , ) or a semicolon (e.g., ).
• Compound-Complex Sentence: A sentence that has at least two independent clauses and at least one dependent clause (e.g., ).

Synonyms

• Multiclausal sentence (a more technical term emphasizing the presence of multiple clauses).

Related Phrases / Concepts

• Subordinating Conjunction: A word that introduces a dependent clause (e.g., , , , , , , , , , , , ).
• Independent Clause: A group of words that contains a subject and a verb and expresses a complete thought. It can stand alone as a sentence.
• Dependent Clause: A group of words that contains a subject and a verb but does not express a complete thought. It cannot stand alone as a sentence.

Noun

1. a sentence composed of at least one main clause and one subordinate clause