Complex sentence - Definition

In syntax, a sentence with an independent clause and at least one dependent clause is referred to as a complex sentence. The dependent clause is often introduced by a subordinate conjunction such as "which", "while" or "because".

Examples

• I ate the meal which you cooked.

I ate the meal is an independent clause, which you cooked is dependent.

• When I saw what you had done, I was happy.

Two dependent clauses, and one indepedent.

Contrast with:

• I was scared, but I didn't run away.

Both clauses are independent. This is a compound sentence but not a complex sentence.

• The dog you gave me barked at me and bit my hand.

Two independent clauses ("barked at me" and "bit my hand") and one dependent clause ("[which] you gave me"). This is a complex-compound sentence.

See also

• Clause