Syntax pre
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A simple sentence contains a subject and one finite verb expressing a complete thought. It can have modifiers but only one independent clause. A complex sentence contains an independent clause and one or more dependent clauses, with the dependent clauses connected by subordinators like "because", "since", or relative pronouns. The dependent clauses add meaning but cannot stand alone, depending on the main independent clause.
Syntax pre
- 2. A simple sentence contains a subject and one finite verb. It expresses a complete thought. For example: The water boils at 100 centigrade. The finite verb may be composed of up to four auxiliaries + a head verb. He may have been being followed all the time. Although a simple sentence cannot have a dependent clause, it can have modifiers . The tall student sitting in the back in my algebra class yawned loudly . The basic sentence is ‘The student yawned’. The other words are modifiers - they are descriptive words .
- 3. A simple sentence contains only one independent clause, but it can have more than one subject or verb . TWO SUBJECTS : The student and his friend yawned. TWO VERBS : The student yawned and fell asleep A sentence with all these elements will be long, but it is still simple because it contains only one independent clause. The tall student sitting in the back in my physics class and his friend yawned loudly and fell asleep.
- 4. A complex sentence has an independent clause with one or more dependent clauses (independent clauses are in italics). Note that introductory dependent clauses must be followed by commas. Examples. Since we got to the concert late, we had to make our way to our seats in the dark. We left class early so that we could attend a special lecture. Time passes quickly when you are happy.
- 5. A complex sentence always has a subordinator such as because, since, after, although, or when or a relative pronoun such as that, who, or which . Subordinate clause adds meaning to the sentence. It does not stand alone; it depends on a main clause.
- 6. S 1 NP VP V gp Advp N aux v Adv S2 tense (pres) Time passes quickly when you are happy