Mastery of English Sentences (Part 2)
Come with me as I take us in the second part of this work which I know has been of great help.
In the first series, we looked at the concept of a sentence, the basic classifications of sentences with focus on the structural sentences: simple sentence, compound sentence, complex sentence and compound-complex sentence.
Continuing, we’re starting with the remaining two under structure:
- Complex Sentence: What’s a complex sentence? A complex sentence is a sentence that has the components of a main clause and a subordinate clause. Note that a main clause is also called a simple sentence, comprising one idea. It can stand on its own to make a complete meaning. e.g I saw Ladi.
On the other hand, a subordinate clause is that which cannot stand on its own in making a complete sense; it stands with a main clause, a simple sentence to be understood properly. Usually, it’s preceded by a subordinating conjunction- while, because, since, that, etc.
Example: I saw Ladi while I was going out.
From the above example,
I saw Ladi (main clause/simple sentence).
While I was going out (subordinate clause)
- Compound-Complex Sentence: What’s a compound-complex sentence? This is a sentence which is made up two or more main clauses and at least one subordinate clause.
Example: I know that God loves me but I don’t know how to pay him back because I’m human.
Examining the example above,
I know (main clause).
I don’t know how to pay him back (main clause).
That God loves me (subordinate clause)
Because I’m human (subordinate)
Sentences Based on Function: These are sentences separated according to what they do:
- Declarative Sentence
- Imperative Sentence
- Interrogative Sentence
- Exclamatory Sentence
Declarative Sentence
This is a sentence used for making a statement. It’s also known as an affirmative sentence. Like a simple sentence, there’s a full stop at the end of it. e.g Uraojo writes well, Uganeojo goes to school.
Imperative Sentence
It’s a sentence giving a command. It can carry a full stop or an exclamation mark. e.g Shut up, Sit here
Interrogative Sentence
An interrogative sentence asks a question and as such, a question mark is added. e.g What’s your name? How’re you doing?
Exclamatory Sentence
A sentence which is used to express a feeling of surprise, joy, etc. is exclamatory sentence. e.g What a good God! How bad of you to speak blasphemy!
We’ve taken time to look at the two basic classifications of sentences in English. Let get your feedback concerning this work.
