Types of Sentences

Types of Sentences

When we learn to write, we begin by learning about the types of sentences and the role punctuation plays in determining and creating those different sentence types. There are eight major types of sentences. This slideshow explains each one of them.

Simple Sentence

A sentence with only one independent clause.

Examples:- The cat stretched. - Jacob stood on his tiptoes. - The car turned the corner.

Compound Sentence

A sentence made up of two or more simple sentences

Examples:- She did not cheat on the test, for it was the wrong thing to do. - I really need to go to work, but I am too sick to drive. - I am counting my calories, yet I really want dessert.

Complex Sentence

Contains one independent clause and one or more dependent clauses.

Examples:- Because my coffee was too cold, I heated it in the microwave. - Although he was wealthy, he was still unhappy. - She returned the computer after she noticed it was damaged.

Compound-complex Sentence

Contains two or more independent clauses and one or more dependent clauses.

Examples:- Kate doesn't like cartoons because they are loud, so she doesn't watch them. - The dog started barking so the cat ran away and I couldn't keep up, so I stopped. - She likes to sleep in but she can get up early if she has work.

Declarative Sentence

Makes a statement.

Examples:- She wears red nail polish. - The room smells clean. - I love my cat.

Interrogative Sentence

Asks a question.

Examples:- Is it cold outside? - Was the film good? Did you like it? - Where is the toilet please?

Imperative Sentence

Makes a command.

Examples:- Pass the salt. - Move out of my way! - Shut the front door.

Exclamatory Sentence

Communicates strong emotion or surprise.

Examples: - You were meant to be back yesterday! - Jeepers! You scared the life out of me! - We won!