Introduction to sentence structure-Detailed discussion with examples

No matter what you call it—grammar, sentence structure, or syntax, a well-crafted sentence will always leave a positive impression.

Let us discuss the sentence structure of different types of sentences.

Also read: Introduction to sentence analysis

Simple sentence

A simple sentence is the expression of a single thought. It may also be defined as an independent clause. (A clause is a group of words containing a subject and predicate.)­­

The first reports came at eleven o’clock.

Compound sentence

A compound sentence is formed by joining two or more simple sentences or at least two independent clauses.

We waited all evening, but the first reports did not come until eleven complex sentences consisting of one independent clause and one or more dependent clauses. (Dependent clauses do not make a complete statement; they do the work of an adverb, adjective, or noun.)

Although we waited all evening, we did not receive a report until eleven o’clock. (The clause introduced by although is adverbial.)

Compound-complex sentences.

The men who were chosen were excellent, players, they had a great deal of experience, and they worked well together.

In the above sentences, there are three independent clauses and one dependent, that were chosen, which is an adjectival clause.

Writers without much experience often use a compound sentence when a complex would be more effective, that is when one of the parts of the sentences is really subordinate to the other in thought.

For example: “I was very tired. And so I went to bed early” night be written. “Because I was very tired. I went to bed early.” Good writers vary the sentence structure to gain emphasis and to avoid monotony.