Skip to main content

Sentences

A sentence is a unit of grammar. Typically, in writing, it begins with a capital letter and ends with a full stop.

Sentence structures​

There are three types of sentence structures: simple, compound and complex.

Simple sentences​

Simple sentences have only one main clause:

  • We’re going on holiday tomorrow*.* (one main clause)
  • I’m not keen on musicals*.*

Compound sentences​

Compound sentences have two or more main clauses, joined by a coordinating conjunction:

  • I phoned her but she wasn’t there.
  • Are you coming or are you staying at home or will you go and see Mum?

Complex sentences​

Complex sentences have a main clause and one or more subordinate clauses, introduced by a subordinating conjunction (The main clause is in bold; the subordinate clause is underlined.):

  • You can call me if you have any problems*.*
  • I got up earlier than usual because I had to get the 6.30 train*.*
  • Although it hurt when she bent her wrist*, she could still move her fingers.*

Types of sentence​

There are four main types of clause or sentence.

(s = subject; v = verb; aux = auxiliary verb; x = objects, complements or adjuncts)

Declarative(statements)[S] I [V] finished [X] the book last night.
Interrogative(questions)[AUX] Did [S] you [V] study [X] Latin at school?
Imperative(orders, instructions)[V] Leave [X] it on the chair, thanks.
Exclamative(expressing strong opinion or surprise)What [S] a gorgeous dress [V] she’s wearing!
See also
  • Clauses
  • Questions
  • Imperative clauses (Be quiet!)
  • Exclamative clauses