Compound Sentences

What is a Compound Sentence?

A compound sentence is made up of two or more independent clauses joined together. Unlike a simple sentence, which expresses a single complete thought, a compound sentence combines multiple thoughts or ideas.

Components of a Compound Sentence:

  • Independent Clause: A group of words that contains a subject and a predicate and expresses a complete thought. It can stand alone as a sentence.
  • Coordinating Conjunction: A word that connects two independent clauses. The most common coordinating conjunctions are: for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so (remember the acronym FANBOYS).

Examples:

I love hiking, but my friend prefers swimming.

  • Independent Clause 1: I love hiking
  • Coordinating Conjunction: but
  • Independent Clause 2: my friend prefers swimming

She studied hard, so she aced the exam.

  • Independent Clause 1: She studied hard
  • Coordinating Conjunction: so
  • Independent Clause 2: she aced the exam

Don't forget to put a comma before coordinating conjunction.

Conclusion:

Understanding compound sentences adds depth and variety to your writing. It allows you to express more complex ideas and relationships between thoughts. As you practice creating and identifying compound sentences, you'll enhance your ability to communicate effectively in both written and spoken forms.