What Is A Compound Sentence? Definition & Examples

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Imagine writing with only short, choppy sentences. I went to the shop. It was closed. I came home. That’s where compound sentences step in to add variety, depth, and rhythm to your writing.

But what exactly is a compound sentence, and how can it transform your writing from robotic to dynamic? Let’s explore compound sentences, their grammar rules and some examples!

What Is a Compound Sentence?

A compound sentence is a sentence that contains two or more independent clauses (complete thoughts) joined by a coordinating conjunction (like and, but, or or) or a semicolon. These sentences have two subjects and at least two verbs.  

Each independent clause in a compound sentence could stand on its own as a sentence, but when we link them together, it creates a nice flow in your writing. 

For example:

I went to the shop, but it was closed.

She loves coffee, and he prefers tea.

In these sentences, both clauses are complete ideas, but they’re brought together using a conjunction to form a single sentence with more depth.

A sentence broken down into two independent clauses. The sentence reads, ‘I felt exhausted, so I went to bed.’ The conjunction ‘so’ is highlighted as a coordinating conjunction linking the two clauses.

How to Form a Compound Sentence

Forming a compound sentence is pretty straightforward! You take two independent clauses and combine them with:

1. A Coordinating Conjunction (FANBOYS): For, And, Nor, But, Or, Yet, So.

The sun was shining, so we decided to go for a walk.

2. A Semicolon: This works if the clauses are closely related and you want a smoother connection than a full stop but without a conjunction.

It’s late; I need to go to bed.

3. A Transitional Word or Phrase: Words like however, therefore, moreover, and consequently can also join two independent clauses. Just remember to use a semicolon before the transition word.

I didn’t finish the project on time; therefore, I had to work late.

Why Use Compound Sentences?

So, why not just stick to simple sentences all the time? Well, compound sentences offer a few major benefits:

Better flow: They help you avoid repetitive, staccato-like sentences by linking related ideas together.

Clarity: Combining clauses helps you explain two related ideas in a single, cohesive thought.

Variety: Your writing feels more sophisticated and engaging when you mix up sentence types, including compound sentences.

Examples of Compound Sentences

Here are some examples of compound sentences to show you how they work in everyday writing:

Coordinating Conjunction:

I was hungry, so I made a sandwich.

Semicolon:

The movie was long; I nearly fell asleep.

Transitional Phrase:

She didn’t study for the test; as a result, she didn’t do well.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

While compound sentences are easy to create, writers can often make these mistakes: 

1. Comma Splices

A comma splice happens when you try to join two independent clauses with just a comma and no conjunction.

Incorrect: I’m tired, I need to sleep.

Correct: I’m tired, so I need to sleep.

2. Run-on Sentences

A run-on sentence occurs when you combine two clauses without proper punctuation or conjunctions.

Incorrect: She loves cats she adopted three.

Correct: She loves cats, so she adopted three.

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FAQs About Compound Sentences

1. What’s the difference between a compound sentence and a complex sentence?

A compound sentence links two independent clauses with a coordinating conjunction or semicolon. A complex sentence, links an independent clause with one or more dependent clauses using subordinating conjunctions like because or although. Remember a dependent clause cannot stand on its own and adds additional information and context to the independent clause. 

Example of complex sentence: I stayed home because it was raining. (‘I stayed home’ is the independent clause, and ‘because it was raining’ is the dependent clause in this example). 

2. Can a compound sentence have more than two clauses?

Yes! A compound sentence can have more than two clauses as long as they are all independent. Just keep in mind that too many clauses can make your sentence harder to follow.

Example: She likes to read, he enjoys watching movies, and they both love cooking together.

3. How can I avoid writing run-on sentences?

The easiest way to avoid run-on sentences is by using the correct punctuation. Make sure that each independent clause is properly linked with a coordinating conjunction, semicolon, or transitional word.

Incorrect: I went for a run it started to rain.

Correct: I went for a run, but it started to rain.

Ready To Compound Your Sentences?

As long as you remember to use the correct punctuation or coordinating conjunction to connect your independent sentences,  you will use compound sentences correctly. 

Enjoy the benefits of using compound sentences in your writing, from creating a natural flow to adding dynamics when contrasting them with complex and simple sentences.  

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