1. Definition & Core Meaning
A complex sentence has one independent clause and at least one dependent clause.
Dependent vs Independent:
- Independent: Can stand alone ("I will call you")
- Dependent: Cannot stand alone ("When I arrive")
Joined by Subordinating Conjunctions: when, because, if, although, since, while structure.
What is it?
Independent + Dependent Clauses
2. Use Cases
- Showing Cause and Effect: "Because it rained, the game was cancelled."
- Expressing Conditions: "If you study, you will pass."
- Showing Time Relationships: "While I was eating, the phone rang."
- Providing Contrast: "Although he is rich, he is unhappy."
3. When to Use It (Time Expressions/Signals)
- Subordinating Conjunctions: because, although, if, since, while, even though, unless.
- Relative Pronouns: who, which, that, whom, whose.
[!NOTE]
Review the examples and rules closely to understand the context.
4. How to Use It (Rules)
- Start with Dependent Clause → Use Comma
- Start with Independent Clause → No Comma