Use conjunctions to connect main and subordinate clauses

Oct 13, 2025 by wbrum.org 81 views

Rewriting Simple Sentences as Complex Sentences: A Guide to Conjunctions

Introduction

Conjunctions are words that connect words, phrases, or clauses in a sentence. They play a crucial role in forming complex sentences, which are essential in effective communication. In this article, we will explore how to rewrite simple sentences as complex sentences using conjunctions. We will examine three simple sentences and rewrite them using the conjunctions "if," "though," and "so that."

Rewriting Simple Sentences with "If"

The first simple sentence is: "Do physical exercise to be healthy."

This sentence is a command, and it lacks a condition. To make it a complex sentence, we need to add a condition using the conjunction "if." Here's the rewritten sentence:

Do physical exercise to be healthy if you want to live a long and healthy life.

In this rewritten sentence, the conjunction "if" connects the main clause "Do physical exercise to be healthy" to the subordinate clause "you want to live a long and healthy life." The subordinate clause provides a condition for the main clause, making the sentence more complex and interesting.

Rewriting Simple Sentences with "Though"

The second simple sentence is: "The cruel looking men is actually very kind."

This sentence is a statement, and it lacks a contrast. To make it a complex sentence, we need to add a contrast using the conjunction "though." Here's the rewritten sentence:

The cruel looking men is actually very kind though they may appear intimidating at first glance.

In this rewritten sentence, the conjunction "though" connects the main clause "The cruel looking men is actually very kind" to the subordinate clause "they may appear intimidating at first glance." The subordinate clause provides a contrast to the main clause, making the sentence more complex and nuanced.

Rewriting Simple Sentences with "So That"

The third simple sentence is: "The soldiers fired in self defence."

This sentence is a statement, and it lacks a purpose. To make it a complex sentence, we need to add a purpose using the conjunction "so that." Here's the rewritten sentence:

The soldiers fired in self defence so that they could protect themselves from harm.

In this rewritten sentence, the conjunction "so that" connects the main clause "The soldiers fired in self defence" to the subordinate clause "they could protect themselves from harm." The subordinate clause provides a purpose for the main clause, making the sentence more complex and meaningful.

Conclusion

In conclusion, conjunctions are essential in forming complex sentences. By using conjunctions like "if," "though," and "so that," we can rewrite simple sentences into more interesting and nuanced complex sentences. This guide has provided examples of how to rewrite simple sentences using these conjunctions, and we hope that it has been helpful in improving your writing skills.

Tips for Using Conjunctions

Use conjunctions to connect main and subordinate clauses: Conjunctions like "if," "though," and "so that" can connect main and subordinate clauses to form complex sentences.
Use conjunctions to provide contrast: Conjunctions like "though" can provide contrast to the main clause, making the sentence more nuanced.
Use conjunctions to provide purpose: Conjunctions like "so that" can provide purpose to the main clause, making the sentence more meaningful.
Use conjunctions to make your writing more interesting: Conjunctions can add variety and interest to your writing, making it more engaging for your readers.

Common Conjunctions

If: used to introduce a condition
Though: used to introduce a contrast
So that: used to introduce a purpose
Because: used to introduce a reason
Unless: used to introduce a condition
Until: used to introduce a duration

Conclusion

Q: What is the difference between a simple sentence and a complex sentence?

A: A simple sentence is a sentence that has only one independent clause, while a complex sentence is a sentence that has one independent clause and one or more dependent clauses. Conjunctions like "if," "though," and "so that" are used to connect the independent and dependent clauses in a complex sentence.

Q: What is the purpose of using conjunctions in complex sentences?

A: The purpose of using conjunctions in complex sentences is to provide more information, contrast, or purpose to the main clause. Conjunctions help to create a more nuanced and interesting sentence that engages the reader.

Q: How do I know which conjunction to use in a complex sentence?

A: The choice of conjunction depends on the meaning you want to convey in the sentence. For example, if you want to introduce a condition, use "if." If you want to introduce a contrast, use "though." If you want to introduce a purpose, use "so that."

Q: Can I use conjunctions to connect two independent clauses?

A: Yes, you can use conjunctions like "and," "but," and "or" to connect two independent clauses. However, be careful not to create a run-on sentence by using too many conjunctions.

Q: What is a run-on sentence?

A: A run-on sentence is a sentence that contains two or more independent clauses that are not properly connected with punctuation or conjunctions. Run-on sentences can be confusing and difficult to read.

Q: How do I avoid creating run-on sentences?

A: To avoid creating run-on sentences, use punctuation like commas, semicolons, or periods to separate the independent clauses. You can also use conjunctions like "and," "but," and "or" to connect the clauses.

Q: Can I use conjunctions to connect a dependent clause to a main clause?

A: Yes, you can use conjunctions like "if," "though," and "so that" to connect a dependent clause to a main clause. This is a common way to create complex sentences.

Q: What is a dependent clause?

A: A dependent clause is a clause that cannot stand alone as a complete sentence. It usually begins with a subordinating conjunction like "because," "since," or "after."

Q: Can I use conjunctions to connect a dependent clause to another dependent clause?

A: Yes, you can use conjunctions like "and," "but," and "or" to connect two dependent clauses. However, be careful not to create a sentence that is too complex or confusing.

Q: How do I know when to use a conjunction to connect two dependent clauses?

A: Use a conjunction to connect two dependent clauses when you want to show a relationship between the two clauses. For example, you can use "and" to connect two clauses that are similar, or "but" to connect two clauses that are contrasting.

Q: Can I use conjunctions to connect a dependent clause to a main clause and another dependent clause?

A: Yes, you can use conjunctions like "if," "though," and "so that" to connect a dependent clause to a main clause and another dependent clause. This is a common way to create complex sentences with multiple clauses.

Conclusion

In conclusion, conjunctions are essential in forming complex sentences. By using conjunctions like "if," "though," and "so that," we can create more interesting and nuanced sentences that engage the reader. This Q&A article has provided answers to common questions about conjunctions and complex sentences, and we hope that it has been helpful in improving your writing skills.