A compound-complex sentence is a sentence structure that contains two or more independent clauses and at least one dependent clause. This type of sentence combines the features of both compound and complex sentences, providing a high degree of complexity and flexibility in expressing ideas.
Key characteristics of a compound-complex sentence include:
- Multiple Independent Clauses: Like a compound sentence, a compound-complex sentence includes two or more independent clauses, each capable of standing alone as a complete sentence.
Example: Although the sun sets, the stars appear, and the night becomes magical.
- Dependent Clause: Similar to a complex sentence, a compound-complex sentence includes at least one dependent clause, which relies on independent clauses for context and meaning.
Example: Although the sun sets, the stars appear, and the night becomes magical.
- Coordinating Conjunctions: Independent clauses in a compound-complex sentence can be connected by coordinating conjunctions (and, but, or, nor, for, yet, so) or other appropriate conjunctions.
Example: Although the sun sets, the stars appear, and the night becomes magical.
- Subordinating Conjunctions: Dependent clauses are often introduced by subordinating conjunctions, indicating the relationship between the independent and dependent clauses.
Example: Although the sun sets, the stars appear, and the night becomes magical.
Compound-complex sentences allow writers to convey intricate relationships and present various ideas in a single sentence. Proper punctuation and coordination of clauses are crucial for clarity and coherence in compound-complex sentences.