compound-complex sentence
(noun)
Multiple independent clauses, at least one of which has at least one subordinate clause.
Examples of compound-complex sentence in the following topics:
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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.
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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?
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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."
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.