Compound Sentence Examples

A compound sentence comprises a minimum of two independent clauses with connected ideas. As seen in the compound sentence instances below, the separate clauses can be connected by a coordinating conjunction (for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so) or a semicolon.

Making a Compound Sentence

Each part of a compound sentence must be complete in its own right. This implies that each half requires a subject and a verb.

As an example:

I'd like the flashy Green automobile, but I will rent the more practical gray one.

The subjects in the preceding sentence are italicized, while the verbs are bold. Since it comprises the subject "I" and the verb "like," the first part is a full sentence. The second half of the sentence, following the comma and coordinating conjunction (but), is similarly full, with the subject "I" and the verb "will rent."

Compound Sentence Examples

Compound Sentences using Coordinating Conjunctions

Coordination conjunctions are employed in numerous compound sentences. Use the mnemonic FANBOYS to recall all of the coordinating conjunctions (for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so). For proper punctuation, the sentence must have a comma prior to the conjunction.

As an example:

1. Linda did not cheat on the examination, for it was a bad decision to do.
2. I urgently need to get to work, but I can't drive since I'm unwell.
3. I'm watching my weight, but I really want pudding.
4. He had run out of cash, so he had to stop gambling games.
5. They arrived early, and they received excellent seats.
6. They had no dessert left at home and no funds to go to the supermarket.
7. Everybody was preoccupied, so I ended up going to the restaurant alone.
8. I believed I was getting the bonus, but my performance wasn't up to par.
9. Should we begin class right away or wait until everybody arrives ?
10. It was getting late, and we weren't even close to the cottage.
11. Cats make excellent pets for they are clean and quiet.
12. We've never traveled to Asia, nor we've ever been to Europe.
13. He didn't wish to go to the doctor, but he did.

Compound Sentences Using a Semicolon

You can also join two phrases together without using a conjunction. One must utilize a semicolon to link the two independent clauses in the sentences or statements.

Compound sentences with semicolons comprise the following:

1. The horizon is clean; the stars are glittering.
2. Susan adorned the sugar cookies; Joe baked them.
3. The waves smashed on the shore; it was a beautiful sight.
4. Return tomorrow to check; I will let you know if the novel has arrived.
5. I am delighted to accept your contribution; any effort is highly appreciable.
6. Malls are fantastic locations to shop; they have everything that I want under one cover.
7. Rome is my favorite nation; I hope to visit for two weeks next year.
8. He sent in the scientific paper on Thursday; else, he would not have cleared the course.
9. She went out and bought a hamburger for her friend; she forgot the crisps.
10. She adored the dog; she lavished it with goodies.

Conjunctive Adverbs in Compound Sentences

1. Frantic is my favorite movie, but I have only seen this once.
2. He gave himself in to the police; otherwise, he would have been jailed.
3. He has a really fantastic team; at least, that is what he says.
4. He said he was collaborating last night; however, no one saw him there at the workplace.

Semicolons and Conjunctive Adverbs in Compound Sentences

Utilize conjunctive adverbs to soften the shift between clauses (however, besides, therefore, meanwhile). Just after the semicolon, add a comma and then the conjunctive adverb.

Here are several examples:

1. It was a demanding worksheet; however, Kiana took up this mission to complete it.
2. There have been white-out circumstances in the city; therefore, the streets were inaccessible.
3. He said he wasn't there that day; however, numerous people saw him.
4. She only canvases with bright colors; indeed, she despises whites.
5. She does two jobs to pay the bills; at least, that's why she couldn't accompany us.
6. You must carry the necessary camping gear, for instance, a sleeping bag, to keep you cozy.
7. I have paid my fees; as a result, I hope to get all of the benefits outlined in the bylaws.
8. He ate six burgers for lunch and felt sick afterward.
9. Her ankles ached from running; moreover, her sneakers were getting worn out.
10. His buddies canceled weekend plans that evening; however, he didn't wish to join them in the first place.

Writing Tips for Strong Compound Sentences

Ready to improve your writing by creating your own compound sentences? Here are a few pointers to get you started.

1. Begin with the basics

Start by connecting simple clauses that clearly relate to one another. For examples "I like pizzas and steaks,".

2. Complete your ideas

Evaluate each clause in your compound sentences separately to check that each could exist alone.

3. Vary the length of your sentences.

To keep your reader interested, mix short and large sentences. Let's say for instance, "Alexander was a pleased man who always grinned radiantly, but today he was angry. "

4. Read out loud

Reading your complex sentence aloud is the best method to see if it flows well. You can even save and listen to your sentences.

5. Request feedback

Seek the assistance of an English tutor who can provide you with great, constructive criticism on your writing, or ask a friend who speaks the language to proofread your work.

Compound Sentence Examples

Here is a common list of Compound Sentences using semi-colons; coordinating conjunctions etc.

1. We're exhausted, yet it is too early to sleep.
2. I believe you are comfortable here, but you would also be pleased at home.
3. Dad is irritable this morning for he has not had a cup of coffee yet.
4. The lieutenant stood motionless; he is always ready for action.
5. Jenny excels in science and she plans to pursue medicine at a prestigious university.
6. You can eat that muffin with the blueberries or the one over there.
7. My knee joints are stiff; old age is coming.
8. Kevin adores Maria; however Jane does not love Jean.
9. Pudding is not expensive, moreover it is also extremely tasty.
10. What Kate did was astounding; in fact, I couldn't believe it.
11. Meena is my favorite movie, however I have only seen it once.
12. She surrendered to the authorities; otherwise, she would have been arrested.
13. She barely studied and failed her tests as a result.
14. The whole town was flooded; residents had to use boats to get around.
15. We always shop at the shopping; it has everything we need in one location.
16. Call us again next week; it should be here by then.
17. We accept all key credit cards ; accept online payments.
18. My brother enjoys soccer, and I enjoy swimming.
19. Her sister is a brilliant vocalist, and she is an amazing dancer.
20. However, I completed my assignment on time.
21. I cannot join the party, so I have a lot of homework to do.
22. He worked diligently, but he did not pass the exam.
23. I desperately need a vacation, but I do not have the funds or the time.
24. She is insane! She dislikes the residence, yet she purchased it anyhow.
25. It is after 12 p.m., and he has not arrived.

Rules for Compound Sentences

To effectively compose a compound sentence, you must follow the following rules:

1. To connect two separate clauses, utilize a coordinating conjunction or a semicolon.
2. The independent clauses must be meaningfully related and equally important.
3. Utilize a comma prior to the coordinating conjunction.
4. There should be no comma preceding the semicolon.
5. After a semicolon, refrain from using a coordinating conjunction.
6. Use a semicolon after a transitional expression.

Most Common Mistakes

Here are some of the most typical mistakes people make while utilizing compound sentences:

1. Utilizing a comma splice: A comma links two independent clauses in the absence of a coordinating conjunction. Suppose you say, "I like learning through books, my brother likes to watch films. "
2. Utilizing a run-on sentence: A run-on sentence is one in which two independent clauses are combined without any punctuation. Suppose you say, "I love to swim and my sibling likes to play football. "
3. Incorrect use of a coordinating conjunction: A coordinating conjunction connects two dependent clauses. Such as: "Although I like learning through books, my sibling likes to play football. "

Compound Sentences Synopsis

A compound sentence has two or more independent components but no dependent clauses. Looking at examples of compound sentences must have helped you understand them, and the requirements for each fundamental sentence form are listed below:

1. A simple sentence comprises a single independent clause.
2. A compound sentence has two or more independent components and no dependent clauses.
3. A Minimum of one independent clause and one dependent clause are required in a complex sentence.
4. There are, at minimum, two independent clauses and one dependent clause in a compound-complex sentence.

Thus, Compound sentences are made up of two or more independent clauses joined by a coordinating conjunction, a semicolon, or a transitional expression. To appropriately compose a compound sentence, the clauses must be meaningfully related and of equal significance. Try constructing a few statements with the various forms of compound sentences and observe how they enhance the clarity and rhythm of your English speech!

Compound sentences can enhance the richness and color of your writing. While new writers initially learn to combine fundamental phrases, mixing them in complicated sentences makes paragraphs more interesting.