How to Make a Complex Sentence with Examples (Guide)

Creating a complex sentence involves combining an independent clause (a clause that can stand alone as a sentence) with one or more dependent clauses (clauses that cannot stand alone as a sentence). Here’s a simple guide on how to make a complex sentence:

Start with an Independent Clause: This is a complete sentence on its own. For example: “I enjoy reading.”
Add a Dependent Clause: This clause adds additional information but cannot stand alone. It’s typically introduced by subordinating conjunctions like because, although, if, when, since, etc. For instance: “because it’s relaxing.”
Combine the Two Clauses: Link the independent and dependent clauses to form a complex sentence. In our example, it becomes: “I enjoy reading because it’s relaxing.”
Check for Correct Punctuation: If the dependent clause comes first, use a comma before the independent clause. If the independent clause comes first, no comma is needed. For example:
- “Because it’s relaxing, I enjoy reading.”
- “I enjoy reading because it’s relaxing.”
Revise for Clarity and Flow: Ensure the sentence is clear and flows smoothly.

Remember, the key to a complex sentence is that it combines a complete thought (independent clause) with an incomplete thought (dependent clause) to provide more detail or context.

Table of Contents

Exploring Ways to Make a Complex Sentence (Comprehensive Guide)

1. Start with an Independent Clause

Creating a complex sentence begins with understanding and constructing an independent clause. An independent clause is essentially a sentence that can stand alone because it contains a subject and a verb and expresses a complete thought.

What is an Independent Clause?

An independent clause, also known as a main clause, is the cornerstone of any complex sentence. It’s important to grasp what makes a clause independent.

Subject and Verb: Every independent clause must have a subject (who or what the sentence is about) and a verb (what the subject is doing).
Complete Thought: It expresses a complete idea, meaning it makes sense on its own.
Can Stand Alone: It doesn’t rely on other clauses to provide a complete thought.

For example, “The cat sleeps” is an independent clause as it has a subject (“The cat”) and a verb (“sleeps”), and it forms a complete thought.

How to Identify the Subject and Verb?

Identifying the subject and verb in a clause is crucial to ensure it’s independent.

Look for the Action or State of Being: The verb is the action or state of being in the sentence.
Find Who or What is Performing the Action: The subject is typically the noun or pronoun doing the verb.

For example, in the sentence “The sun sets in the west,” “the sun” is the subject, and “sets” is the verb.

Why Does the Clause Need to Express a Complete Thought?

The importance of expressing a complete thought lies in the independence of the clause.

Clarity of Communication: A sentence that expresses a complete thought provides clear and concise information.
Foundation for Complex Sentences: Without a complete thought, the clause would depend on additional information to make sense.

For instance, “She dances” is a complete thought and doesn’t need further information to be understood.

What Happens If There’s No Complete Thought?

If a clause doesn’t express a complete thought, it becomes a dependent clause.

Dependency: These clauses rely on additional information to provide a complete idea.
Incomplete Sentences: They can lead to fragments if not connected to an independent clause.

For example, “When she dances” lacks a complete thought and needs an independent clause to form a complete sentence.

Creating a strong independent clause is the first step in constructing a complex sentence.

2. Add a Dependent Clause

Once you have a solid independent clause, the next step is to add a dependent clause. A dependent clause, unlike an independent clause, cannot stand alone as a sentence because it does not express a complete thought. It’s used to add more detail to the independent clause.

What is a Dependent Clause?

A dependent clause adds extra information to the main sentence but relies on the independent clause to make sense.

Incorporates Key Words: It often starts with subordinating conjunctions like “although,” “since,” “if,” “when,” or “because.”
Incomplete on Its Own: It can’t stand alone as a sentence as it would not convey a complete idea.

For example, “although it was raining” is a dependent clause that adds context but needs an independent clause to complete the thought.

How Do Subordinating Conjunctions Work?

Subordinating conjunctions are the words that link the dependent clause to the independent clause.

Creating a Relationship: They show the relationship between the two clauses, such as time, reason, condition, or contrast.
Examples of Subordinating Conjunctions: Words like “because,” “since,” “after,” “although,” and “if” are common subordinating conjunctions.

For instance, in the sentence “I went out because it was sunny,” the word “because” introduces the reason for going out, linking the dependent clause “it was sunny” to the independent clause.

Why is a Dependent Clause Important in a Complex Sentence?

The dependent clause is what transforms a simple sentence into a complex one.

Adds Depth and Detail: It provides additional information, context, or contrast to the main idea.
Enhances the Meaning: It allows you to express more complex ideas and relationships between them.

For example, “I enjoy reading when it’s raining” uses the dependent clause “when it’s raining” to add context to the enjoyment of reading.

Can a Sentence Have More Than One Dependent Clause?

Yes, a complex sentence can include multiple dependent clauses.

Layering Information: Multiple dependent clauses can add various layers of information or detail.
Balancing Clarity with Complexity: While adding more than one dependent clause can enrich the sentence, it’s important to maintain clarity.

An example with two dependent clauses is, “Although it was late, he decided to go out because he was not tired.”

Now that you understand how to add a dependent clause to an independent clause, are you ready to learn how to combine them effectively to form a complex sentence?

3. Combine the Two Clauses

After crafting an independent clause and one or more dependent clauses, the next step is to combine them to form a complex sentence. This combination creates a sentence that is not only grammatically correct but also rich in meaning.

How to Correctly Combine Independent and Dependent Clauses?

The way you combine these clauses depends on the order and the meaning you want to convey.

Dependent Clause First: If the dependent clause comes first, use a comma after it. For example, “Although it was raining, I went for a walk.”
Independent Clause First: If the independent clause comes first, you generally do not need a comma. For example, “I went for a walk even though it was raining.”

What Are the Benefits of Starting with a Dependent Clause?

Starting with a dependent clause can emphasize the information in the dependent clause.

Highlighting Context or Reason: It sets the stage for the information that follows in the independent clause.
Creating Suspense or Interest: It can create a buildup that makes the sentence more engaging.

For example, “When the clock struck midnight, she realized she was late.”

Can the Order Affect the Meaning of the Sentence?

Yes, the order of clauses can sometimes affect the emphasis and sometimes the meaning of the sentence.

Emphasis Shift: Depending on which clause comes first, the emphasis can shift between the main action and the additional information.
Subtle Changes in Meaning: In some cases, the order can slightly alter the nuance of the sentence.

For instance, “Because I was tired, I went to bed early” emphasizes the reason for going to bed early, whereas “I went to bed early because I was tired” emphasizes the action of going to bed.

Are There Any Common Mistakes to Avoid?

When combining clauses, there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for.

Avoid Comma Splices: Ensure not to incorrectly join two independent clauses with just a comma.
Maintain Logical Connection: The dependent clause should logically connect to and modify the independent clause.

For example, “She won the race, because she trained hard” is incorrect; it should be “She won the race because she trained hard.”

4. Check for Correct Punctuation

An essential aspect of constructing complex sentences is the correct use of punctuation. Punctuation helps to clarify the relationship between the independent and dependent clauses, ensuring that the sentence is easy to read and understand.

Why is Punctuation Important in Complex Sentences?

Punctuation in complex sentences is crucial for several reasons:

Clarity: Proper punctuation helps to separate ideas clearly, making the sentence easier to read and understand.
Flow and Rhythm: It can affect the flow and rhythm of a sentence, guiding how it should be read.
Avoiding Misunderstandings: Incorrect punctuation can lead to misunderstandings or ambiguity.

For example, “After dinner, I will call you” clearly indicates that the call will happen post-dinner due to the comma placement.

When Should You Use a Comma in a Complex Sentence?

The use of commas in complex sentences depends on the structure:

Dependent Clause First: Use a comma after the dependent clause if it precedes the independent clause. For example, “Although I was tired, I decided to work late.”
Independent Clause First: Generally, no comma is needed if the independent clause comes before the dependent clause. For example, “I decided to work late although I was tired.”

Are There Exceptions to These Punctuation Rules?

Yes, there are exceptions based on style and specific sentence structures:

Omitting Commas for Short Clauses: Sometimes, for very short dependent clauses, the comma might be omitted for smoother reading.
Emphasis and Pause: Commas can be used or omitted to create a specific emphasis or pause, depending on the writer’s style.

For example, “If you can dream it you can do it” might omit the comma after ‘dream it’ for stylistic reasons.

How Can Incorrect Punctuation Affect the Sentence?

Incorrect punctuation can change the meaning or readability of a sentence:

Comma Splices: Joining two independent clauses with a comma instead of a conjunction or semicolon can create a run-on sentence.
Lack of Commas Leading to Ambiguity: Missing commas can lead to ambiguity or misinterpretation of the sentence.

For instance, “Let’s eat grandma” versus “Let’s eat, grandma” dramatically changes the meaning due to the comma.

With these insights on punctuation, you’re well-equipped to craft well-structured complex sentences.

5. Revise for Clarity and Flow

After constructing your complex sentence with the right combination of independent and dependent clauses, and ensuring correct punctuation, the final step is to revise your sentence for clarity and flow. This step is crucial for ensuring that your sentence not only follows grammatical rules but also effectively communicates your intended message in a clear and engaging manner.

Why is Revision Important for Complex Sentences?

Revising complex sentences is important for several reasons:

Enhancing Understandability: It ensures that your sentence is easily understood by your audience.
Improving Readability: Revision can make a sentence more readable and engaging.
Refining the Message: It allows you to fine-tune your sentence to better convey your intended meaning.

For example, the initial sentence “While I was walking, which was on a sunny day, I saw a bird, which was blue” can be revised to “I saw a blue bird while walking on a sunny day” for better clarity and flow.

How to Check for Clarity in Your Sentence?

To ensure clarity in your complex sentences, consider the following:

Simplicity: Avoid unnecessary complexity. Use simpler constructions where possible.
Directness: Ensure that your sentence gets to the point and conveys the message directly.
Focus: Keep the main idea of the sentence in focus, and avoid straying into tangential information.

For example, “Even though it was raining, which I don’t usually like, I went for a walk” can be revised to “Even though it was raining, I went for a walk.”

What About Ensuring Good Flow?

Good flow in a sentence ensures smooth reading and a natural progression of ideas:

Logical Progression: Arrange clauses in a way that the progression of ideas feels natural and logical.
Rhythm and Pacing: Read the sentence aloud to check for natural pauses and a rhythmic flow.
Transitions: Use transitional words or phrases if necessary to enhance the connection between clauses.

For instance, “Although tired, work was completed” can be improved to “Although I was tired, I completed the work.”

Are There Tools or Techniques to Help With Revision?

Yes, there are several tools and techniques that can assist with revising complex sentences:

Reading Aloud: This can help you catch awkward phrasing or lack of flow.
Peer Review: Getting someone else to read your sentence can provide a fresh perspective on its clarity.
Writing Tools: Grammar checkers and writing aids can help identify potential issues in sentence structure.

For example, using a tool like Grammarly might suggest changing “He was running, despite the fact that it was raining” to “He ran despite the rain.”

Revising for clarity and flow is a critical step in ensuring that your complex sentences are not only grammatically correct but also clear, concise, and engaging. With practice, this process becomes more intuitive, greatly enhancing your writing skills.

Examples of Complex Sentences

Here are several examples of complex sentences, each illustrating different ways you can structure them to convey nuanced meanings and relationships between ideas:

Cause and Effect
- “Because she studied hard, she passed the exam with flying colors.”
- “He got the job, since he had the most impressive resume.”
Condition
- “If you save enough money, you can buy a new car.”
- “You will need an umbrella unless the weather clears up.”
Time
- “After the sun set, the city lights began to twinkle.”
- “I will start dinner when you get home.”
Contrast
- “Although it was raining, they decided to continue the picnic.”
- “She loves to travel, even though she gets homesick easily.”
Purpose
- “He whispered so that no one else could hear.”
- “She saved her money so that she could buy a new laptop.”
Concession
- “Even though he’s allergic to cats, he adopted two kittens.”
- “She decided to take the job, though the salary was lower than expected.”
Place
- “Wherever you go, you can always find beauty.”
- “The park where we met is being renovated.”
Manner
- “He drives as if he owns the road.”
- “She sings as though she is performing at a concert.”
Condition with Multiple Clauses
- “If it stops raining, we can go for a walk, unless you’d prefer to stay indoors.”
Combining Different Elements
- “Although the task was challenging, he completed it before the deadline, because he was determined to succeed.”

These examples show how complex sentences can be used to articulate a wide range of ideas and relationships in a clear, detailed, and engaging manner. They are particularly useful in academic writing, storytelling, and everyday communication to add depth to your expressions.

Q&As

What is a complex sentence?

A complex sentence is a type of sentence structure that combines one independent clause with at least one dependent clause. The independent clause can stand alone as a complete sentence, while the dependent clause cannot. Complex sentences are used to add depth and detail to your writing, often by explaining the reasons, conditions, or contrasts related to the main clause.

How do I identify a dependent clause in a sentence?

A dependent clause is a part of a sentence that cannot stand alone as a complete sentence. It usually begins with a subordinating conjunction like “although,” “because,” “if,” “when,” or “while.” This clause adds extra information to the main clause but relies on it to form a complete thought.

Can a complex sentence start with a dependent clause?

Yes, a complex sentence can start with a dependent clause. When it does, it should be followed by a comma before introducing the independent clause. For example, “Although it was raining, we decided to go hiking.” This structure often emphasizes the information in the dependent clause.

What are some common subordinating conjunctions used in complex sentences?

Common subordinating conjunctions include “because,” “since,” “after,” “although,” “if,” “when,” “while,” and “unless.” These conjunctions introduce the dependent clause and show the relationship between this clause and the main, independent clause.

How does punctuation change the meaning of a complex sentence?

Punctuation in complex sentences, particularly the use of commas, can significantly affect their meaning and clarity. A comma is typically used after a dependent clause when it precedes the independent clause, and omitted when the independent clause comes first. Incorrect punctuation can lead to confusion or misinterpretation of the intended meaning.

Can a complex sentence have more than one dependent clause?

Yes, a complex sentence can have more than one dependent clause. These clauses can provide additional information, context, or layers of meaning to the main clause. However, it’s important to balance complexity with clarity to ensure the sentence remains understandable.

Why is it important to revise complex sentences for clarity and flow?

Revising complex sentences for clarity and flow is crucial to ensure they are easily understood and effectively communicate the intended message. This process involves simplifying complex ideas, ensuring logical progression, and maintaining a natural rhythm in the sentence structure.

What is the difference between a complex sentence and a compound sentence?

A complex sentence contains one independent clause and at least one dependent clause, while a compound sentence contains two or more independent clauses joined by a coordinating conjunction or a semicolon. The key difference lies in the presence of a dependent clause in complex sentences.

How can I practice creating complex sentences?

To practice creating complex sentences, start by writing simple sentences and then adding dependent clauses with subordinating conjunctions. You can also try converting compound sentences into complex sentences by turning one of the independent clauses into a dependent clause.

Are complex sentences better than simple or compound sentences?

Complex sentences are not inherently better than simple or compound sentences; they are just different. They allow for more nuanced and detailed expression, particularly in showing cause and effect, contrast, or conditions. The best choice depends on the context and the desired impact of your writing.