Introduction
As an editor, understanding the various types of sentences can help you improve the overall structure of your articles. Complex sentences in particular can make your writing more engaging and lead to better results. In this article, we'll explore the different types of complex sentences in English and provide examples of each.
Subordinating Conjunctions
One type of complex sentence is made up of an independent clause and a dependent clause connected by a subordinating conjunction. Some examples of subordinating conjunctions include "although," "while," "because," and "since." Here's an example:
Although I love hot weather, I always wear sunscreen when I go to the beach.
In this sentence, the first half of the sentence contains an independent clause ("I love hot weather") and the second half contains a dependent clause ("although...I always wear sunscreen"). The subordinating conjunction "although" makes the dependent clause subordinate to the independent clause.
Noun Clauses
Another type of complex sentence is a noun clause, which functions as a noun within a sentence. Noun clauses often begin with words like "what," "where," "how," and "if." Here's an example:
I'm not sure what time the movie starts.
In this sentence, the noun clause is "what time the movie starts" and functions as the object of the verb "sure."
Relative Clauses
A third type of complex sentence is the relative clause, which begins with a relative pronoun like "that," "who," or "which" and acts as an adjective within a sentence. Here's an example:
The book that I'm reading is really interesting.
In this sentence, the relative clause is "that I'm reading" and serves to describe the subject, "the book."
Participial Phrases
The final type of complex sentence we'll discuss is the participial phrase, which is a verb form used as an adjective to modify a noun or pronoun. Participial phrases can be either present or past tense. Here's an example:
Lost in thought, she didn't notice the time.
In this sentence, the participial phrase is "lost in thought" and serves as an adjective to describe the subject, "she."
Conclusion
Understanding and utilizing various types of complex sentences can help diversify your writing and lead to better results. By using subordinating conjunctions, noun clauses, relative clauses, and participial phrases, you can add complexity and depth to your articles that will engage readers and improve your rankings.