Compound Sentences
What is a Compound Sentence ?
A compound sentence is formed when two independent clauses are linked together,
usually using coordinating conjunctions such as "and" or "but."
It works best when integrating two or more sentences that are independent yet connected into a single, coherent sentence.
For example,
Following are two simple sentences. Both of these sentences can be used independently.
Simple Sentence : I want to go on vacation.
Simple Sentence : I need to take a leave from work.
When we combine them using Coordinating conjunction but it will become a compound sentence.
Compound Sentence
I want to go on vacation, but I need to take a leave from work.
Understanding Compound Sentences
A compound sentence is formed by combining two or more independent clauses using coordinating conjunctions or semicolons.
The key characteristic of a compound sentence is that it contains multiple ideas, each capable of standing alone as a separate sentence.
When these separate sentences are integrated, they provide a link between similar or opposing ideas, making the writing more sophisticated and engaging.
Structure of Compound Sentences
Compound sentences are easy to identify because they usually use a coordinating conjunction and a semicolon to connect two clauses.
independent clause, coordinating conjunction independent clause
independent clause; independent clause
Coordinating Conjunctions: FANBOYS
The most common way to create a compound sentence is by using coordinating conjunctions, which you may remember as FANBOYS: For, And, And, Nor, But , Or, Yet , So.
These conjunctions help in establishing the connection between the ideas in each independent clause.
It is too late so we cannot go to the cinema.
He applied for the job and got it.
For
We use the conjunction “for” (which means “because”) to join two clauses when the second clause is the cause of the first clause.
Some people are avoiding vaccines***, for*** they think vaccines might have side effects.
And
The ‘and’ conjunction is the most common conjunction. It has a wide range of uses. We use "and" to join two equally important sentences.
London is in England, and Rome is in Italy.
Use “and” to join two sentences when the second sentence occurs after the first sentence.
There was a loud bang, and the lights went out.
If the second sentence is the result of the first, use "and" to link them.
He went to bed early, and the next day he felt better.
Nor
If the first sentence contains a negative phrase such as no or never, we use the conjunction 'nor' to join the two alternative sentences. In this case, both sentences are false or do not occur.
He will travel neither by subway nor by flights. He never went to Italy nor will go.
But
We use the conjunction “but” to add a sentence that contradicts the previous clause.
Mary ran fast, but she couldn’t catch the train.
Or
We use the conjunction “or” to connect two alternative sentences.
Please let me know if you prefer pizza or pasta for dinner.
Yet
The conjunction ‘yet’ is similar to the conjunction “but” or “nevertheless”. It shows a contrast with the first part of the sentence.
It is completely waterproof, yet light and comfortable.
So
We use the conjunction “so” to join two sentences when the first clause is the reason for the second clause. it indicates “as a result of” or “for this reason” or something like therefore.
It might rain, so take an umbrella.
Semicolons
Another way to form a compound sentence is by using a semicolon to separate two related independent clauses. This method emphasizes the close connection between the ideas.
Sarah has always been passionate about art; she spends hours creating beautiful paintings.
Semicolons with Conjunctive Adverbs
We can also link independent clauses using conjunctive adverbs like however, therefore, furthermore, nevertheless. The conjunctive adverb must be preceded by a semicolon (;) and followed by a comma (,).
The exam was challenging; nevertheless, she managed to score the highest marks.