Compound VS Complex Sentences

Compound VS Complex Sentences

As we know that a sentence is a group of words that gives complete meaning. It is clear from the definition that every group of words can't be a sentence. 

• We were doing homework when Ali got home. (Sentence)
• When Ali got home. (Not a sentence)

The first example is a sentence because it is a group of words and gives complete meaning. On the other hand, the second one is not a sentence because it does not give complete meaning even if it is a group of words.

Structurally, we have four types of sentences. Two of them are compound sentences and complex sentences. We are discussing compound vs complex sentences in this content. To read more about sentences, you can visit Study English Page.

What is the Difference between Compound and Complex Sentences?

To answer this question, we consider their definitions, formations, and other characteristics. When you read the definitions, formations, and other characteristics of compound and complex sentences, you will easily identify the difference.

Definitions

Compound Sentence

Compound means two or more. Similarly, a compound sentence means a sentence that is made up of two or more simple sentences. We can also define a sentence that is made up of two or more independent clauses. Simple sentences or independent clauses are joined by conjunctions or appropriate conjunctions.

• She hires teachers, and I give training for two days.
• They spend more on building, but they do not take care of maintenance.

Complex Sentence

A complex sentence consists of at least two clauses. It has one independent clause and one or more dependent clauses. We define a complex sentence as a sentence having one independent and at least one dependent clause.

• If they gave full time to their project, they would complete it successfully.

Formation (Compound vs Complex Sentences)

Compound Sentences

We need to join independent clauses to form a compound sentence. You can join independent clauses by using coordinating conjunctions, colons, or semicolons.

The most common way to join independent clauses is the use of coordinating conjunctions. Remember that a coordinating conjunction is preceded by a comma.

• Other employees write articles, and I edit them.

Secondly, a colon is also used to join two independent clauses when the first one is explained, illustrated, or paraphrased by the second one.

• I have got admission to the university: I will join classes next week.

You can use a semicolon to replace a coordinating conjunction. Not only this, but you can also use a semicolon before a coordinating conjunction when there are other commas in the first clause.

• She wanted to meet me yesterday; I ignored her.
• I have bought a notebook, a pencil, and a rubber for her; yet she does not write.

Complex Sentences

The main thing in the formation of a complex sentence is creating links between dependent and independent clauses. To link the two clauses, we use a subordinating conjunction or relative pronoun. When a dependent clause is used at first, we use a comma after the dependent clause.

Subordinating conj + dependent clause + comma + independent clause

As he came to the office, I gave him your letter.

Independent clause + subordinating conj + dependent clause

He will be able to run his business if his father supports him.

 

Other Characteristics (Compound vs Complex Sentences)

Why Compound Sentence?

Each clause in a compound sentence is a complete thought. They add more to the meaning when they are used in a compound sentence.

• Although he is poor, he gives charity.

Why Complex Sentence?

A dependent clause does not give a complete sense. When it is joined with an independent clause, they explain the main idea in a better way.

• While I was running, I fell down.

Independent Clause

A compound sentence has two or more independent clauses.

• I distributed invitation cards, and my father arranged other things.

A complex sentence has just one independent clause.

• While she was waiting at the bus stop, I called her to come back.

Dependent Clause

A compound sentence is made up of independent clauses. It does not have any dependent clauses.

• I waited for her at the park, but she did not come.

A complex sentence has a dependent clause, but just one.

• If she wanted to marry, I would not refuse.

Conjunctions

Clauses in compound sentences are joined by coordinating conjunctions.

• I can speak English, but I cannot speak Chinese.

Clauses in complex sentences are joined by subordinating conjunctions.

• Although it was so hot, we went out.

Beginning of the Sentence

We don’t use a clause with the coordinating conjunction at the beginning of the sentence.

• I greeted them first, and then I made tea for them.

In complex sentences, we can use subordinating conjunction at the beginning of the sentence.

• When he called me a traitor, I resigned from the post.

Punctuation Marks

We can use commas, semicolons, and colons in compound sentences to join independent clauses.

• She likes walking, but she does not like swimming.
• I am going to prepare notes; all students will be benefited.
• He has got university admission: now he is a student.

We use just a comma in complex sentences to join dependent and independent clauses. Remember that a comma is used when the dependent clause is used at first.

• If he gets a penny, he goes to the market.

 

 Related Links:

• Sentences
• Types of sentences
• Declarative Sentences
• Command Sentences
• Questions
• Exclamations
• Simple Sentences
• Compound Sentences
• Complex Sentences
• Compound Complex Sentences