compound-complex sentence

(noun)

Multiple independent clauses, at least one of which has at least one subordinate clause.

Related Terms

  • imperative sentence
  • declarative sentence
  • simple sentences
  • interrogative sentence
  • exclamatory sentence
  • compound sentence
  • complex sentence

Examples of compound-complex sentence in the following topics:

  • Using Varied Sentence Lengths and Styles

    • Here is an example of a compound-complex sentence: "I love my pet pterodactyl, but since he's been eating neighborhood cats, I will donate him to the city zoo."
    • A compound-complex sentence (or complex-compound sentence) consists of multiple independent clauses, at least one of which has at least one subordinate clause.
    • Structural classifications for sentences include: simple sentences, compound sentences, complex sentences, and compound-complex sentences.
    • A compound-complex sentence (or complex-compound sentence) consists of multiple independent clauses, at least one of which has at least one subordinate clause.
    • The fifth sentence is compound.
  • Structure of a Sentence

    • Structural classifications for sentences include simple sentences, compound sentences, complex sentences, and compound-complex sentences.
    • A compound-complex sentence (or complex-compound sentence) consists of multiple independent clauses, at least one of which has at least one subordinate clause.
    • The compound sentence makes the connection clear. 
    • The complex sentence sounds more like a lesson in its "if-then" format, and the compound-complex sentence packs all the information into one conclusive sentence.
    • Does the prose sound convoluted because I use too many compound-complex sentences?
  • Subject-Verb Agreement

    • In order for sentences to sound right, their verbs and subjects need to mesh well together.
    • Subject-verb agreement can become a little more complicated when the subject is very long and complex.
    • Compound sentences (two sentences joined by a clause) have a subject and verb in each clause.
    • Sometimes the subject of a sentence can come after its verb.
    • Compound subjects (two subjects joined by a conjunction) take plural verbs if they are joined by "and."
  • Components of a Sentence

    • In active-voice sentences, it is the noun or pronoun performing the action in the sentence.
    • There are more complex definitions of "predicate."
    • in a sentence.
    • Compound elements can include:
    • Compound predicate: He ran to the house and knocked on the door.
  • Making Subject and Verbs Agree

    • If a sentence has a compound subject, you should use a plural verb even if all the components of the subject are singular nouns.
    • Incorrect sentence: My dog and my cat likes to be petted.
    • Correct sentence: My dog and my cat like to be petted.
    • Note that this is the case specifically because of the word "or. " If the phrase was "the monkey's antics and the handler's chagrin," it would be a compound subject and take the plural verb "cause. "
    • Complex sentences are especially dangerous, particularly if the subject is close to another noun or if it is separated from the verb by other clauses.
  • Varying Your Sentence Structure and Vocabulary

    • Clauses: The easiest way to vary sentence length and structure is with clauses.
    • Length: Longer sentences are better suited for expressing complex thoughts.
    • Here's the rewritten version, with attention paid to sentence variation:
    • Of course, if all the sentences were compound like these, the paper would begin to sound either pretentious or exhausting. 
    • Vary the types of sentences you use to keep your paper interesting.
  • Concision

    • It is important to keep sentences concise; the longer and more complex a sentence gets, the harder it is for a reader to understand.
    • Varying sentence lengths and types of sentences can help to break up otherwise tedious prose blocks.
    • However, it is important to keep in mind that the longer and more complex a sentence gets, the more difficult it can be for a reader to interpret that sentence.
    • Let's break it up into shorter sentences and omit unnecessary words:
    • The single combined sentence may be longer than each of the two original sentences, but overall you are using fewer words and communicating your point more clearly.
  • Principles of Writing in the Sciences

    • "This study aims to identify levels of chlorine and phosphorus compounds in a three-mile stretch of the Columbia River, which is an area notable for salmon runs.
    • In the study, we examine the relationship between salmon population and the persistence of these compounds."
    • Writing in the sciences seeks to explain complex phenomena in clear, straightforward prose that minimizes authorial bias.
    • Strive to use simple words and sentences.
    • Some students try to make their work sound more intellectual by using obscure words and long, elaborate sentences.
  • Using Pointing Words

    • Pointing words let you refer back to complex ideas without becoming vague and confusing the reader.
    • Look at these sentences taken from the conclusion of the essay about "Caliban Upon Setebos. "
    • In the example, the word "this" is a pointing word that refers back to the previous sentence, while simultaneously pointing toward how the ensuing sentence will take up and comment on the initial sentence.
    • The pointing word establishes continuity between the two sentences by acting as a pivot that both points backward to the previous sentence and points forward.
    • Pointing words let you refer back to complex ideas without becoming vague and confusing the reader.
  • Em-Dashes and En-Dashes

    • Dashes are often used to mark interruptions within sentences, or to show the relationships between words.
    • Dashes are often used to mark interruptions within sentences.
    • Em dashes are also sometimes used to summarize or define prior information in a sentence.
    • An exception to the use of en dashes is made, however, when combined with an already hyphenated compound.
    • The title contains an example of em dash usage, which, in this case, shows a break in the sentence.
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