Compound and Complex Sentences

compound sentence

Two independent clauses joined by a coordinate conjunction

complex sentence

An independent clause and dependent clause joined by a subordinate conjunction

AAAWWUBBIS

Acronym for subordinate conjunctions

FANBOYS

Acronym for coordinate conjunctions

dependent clause

A clause in a complex sentence that starts with a subordinate conjunction and has a subject and verb. It cannot stand alone

independent clause

A clause that has a subject and verb and can stand alone as a complete sentence

clause

A group of words with a subject and a verb. It may or may not be able to stand alone as a complete sentence.

semicolon

( ; ) It can be used alone to connect independent clauses in a compound sentence.

The sun was shining brightly, but it was a little chilly.

Example of compound sentence

We can watch a movie, or we can go to the park.

Example of compound sentence

We like to eat dinner before sunset.

Example of simple sentence

They watched the movie even though they were scared.

Example of complex sentence

Harvey won't drive until he gets his license.

Example of complex sentence

yet, nor

Examples of coordinate conjunctions

even though, in order to, while

Examples of subordinate conjunctions

Before I go to school

Clause

Before lunch

Phrase

Into the classroom

Phrase

After the car drove away

Clause

____________ is a complete sentence

independent clause