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Kinds of Sentences

Sentences can be classified according to their structure - simple, compound, complex, and compound complex - and their purpose - declarative, imperative, interrogative, and exclamatory.

Sentence Structures

5a  Simple sentences have only one main clause and no dependent clauses, although they may have several phrases. 

Years ago the family of a bride would supply the groom with a dowry. [One main clause.]
The bride and the groom were not consulted about the choice of a mate and cometimes met each other for the first time on the day of their wedding. [One main clause with a compound subject and a compound predicate.]

5b  Compound sentences have two or more main clauses but no dependent clauses. 

Chauvinism has fueled many political skirmishes, but jingoism has ignited wars. [Two main clauses joined by the coordinating conjunction but.]

5c  Complex sentences have one main clause and at least one dependent clause. 

Although he was a cunning investor, Bennett went bankrupt. [One main clause and one dependent clause beginning with the subordinating conjunction although.]

5d Compound-complex sentences have at least two main clauses and at least one dependent clause. 

If they wish to live fully, most people need amusement to relax, and many people need intellectual challenges to develop their minds. [Two main clauses joined by the coordinating conjunction and and one dependent clause beginning with the subordinating conjunction if.]

Sentence Purposes

5e  A declarative sentence makes a statement. 

Spelunking requires the skill of a mountain climber and the courage of a coal miner.

5f  An imperative sentence gives a command or makes a request. 

Don't walk on the grass.
Please stay off the grass.

5g  An interrogative sentence asks a question.  

Which point of view is most valid?

5h  An exclamatory sentence expresses strong feeling.  

The mountains are glorious!

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