Compound Sentence - Definition, Rules, Structure, Examples

Compound Sentence

Compound sentence is a sentence that joins two complete sentences together. Here, each sentence can be written alone because it has its own subject and verb. So, when we connect them using coordinating conjunctions, semicolons, or conjunctive adverbs, they become one longer sentence.

Learning compound sentences helps us write in a clear and connected way. Instead of writing many short sentences, we can join them to show the relation between ideas. Compound sentences make our writing clearer and more meaningful to read. Keep reading to learn more about compound sentences, their definition, and rules.

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Compound Sentence Definition

Compound sentence definition states that it is a sentence that is made by joining two or more independent clauses or sentences with words like and, but, or, so. Each part of the sentence can stand alone as a separate sentence, but when joined, they show a clear connection.

For example, She likes to draw and he likes to paint. Both sides are complete sentences with their individual meanings, but together they form one compound sentence. Let's now learn about compound sentence structure to better understand it.

Compound Sentence Structure

Understanding compound sentence structure is important because it shows us how two independent clauses can join to form one clear and connected sentence. Each part of the sentence is complete on its own, but the structure helps us bring them together.

There are two common ways to form compound sentence structure:

• By using a comma with a coordinating conjunction (for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so). For example, I wanted to read, but my friend wanted to play.

• By using a semicolon (;) between two related sentences. For instance, The lights went off; the candles gave us light.

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Compound Sentence Rules

While writing compound sentences, there are some simple compound sentence rules that are important to remember:

Rule 1: Each Clause Must Have Its Own Subject and Verb

A compound sentence must have at least two subjects and two verbs. Each part of the sentence should be a complete idea. For example, I cannot change the world, but I can help someone today. If both parts use the same subject, we need to say it again so the sentence is still compound.

Rule 2: One Subject Doing Two Actions Does Not Make a Compound Sentence

Sentences with one subject and two verbs or two subjects with one verb are not compound sentences. For instance, "Rama sings and dances" is not a compound sentence because it has only one subject doing two actions.

However, "Rama sings and dances, but I can only do one thing at a time" is a compound sentence because it has two complete ideas, each with its own subject and verb, joined by the word "but."

Rule 3: Imperative Sentences Can Become Compound

Some sentences don’t show the subject because it is understood. Even then, they can become compound. Like, "Get some water, or the fire will spread!"

Rule 4: Use Punctuation Correctly

• Put a comma before a coordinating conjunction (and, but, or, so).

• If there is no conjunction, use a semicolon (;) between the two sentences.

• Only the first word of the first part starts with a capital letter; the second part usually starts with a lowercase letter.

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Compound Sentence Examples

Now that you have learned what a compound sentence is, let’s look at some easy examples. These compound sentence examples help you understand how two complete clauses can join to make one sentence.

Here are some compound sentence examples made by using coordinating conjunctions, semicolons, or conjunctive words:

Compound Sentences with a Coordinating Conjunction

• I wanted to play outside, but it started raining.

• She likes chocolate, and he likes vanilla.

• I can read a book, or I can watch cartoons.

Compound Sentences with a Semicolon

• The sun was shining; we decided to go for a walk.

• I finished my homework; my sister was still doing hers.

• The cat slept on the sofa; the dog played in the garden.

Compound Sentences with a Conjunctive Adverb

• I was tired; however, I completed my homework.

• We must be careful; otherwise, we might make a mistake.

• He wanted to help; meanwhile, his friend prepared the snacks.

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What is Compound Complex Sentence?

Compound complex sentence is a sentence that is both a compound sentence and a complex sentence at the same time. This means it has:

• At least two independent clauses, which are complete sentences that can be written separately as well.

• At least one subordinate clause: this part cannot stand alone and usually starts with words like after, because, when, or if.

To understand compound complex sentences better, check this example:

After I got home from school, my friends called me, and I went to play outside.

• After I got home from school is a subordinate clause (cannot stand alone).

• My friends called me is an independent clause.

• I went to play outside is also an independent clause.

All three parts are joined properly with a coordinating conjunction (and) and punctuation. This makes the sentence a compound complex sentence.

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