Simple Sentence:
* Structure: A simple sentence has one independent clause.
* Independent Clause: An independent clause expresses a complete thought and can stand alone as a sentence.
* Example: The cat sat on the mat.
Compound Sentence:
* Structure: A compound sentence has two or more independent clauses joined by a coordinating conjunction (for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so).
* Example: The cat sat on the mat, and the dog chased its tail.
Complex Sentence:
* Structure: A complex sentence has one independent clause and at least one dependent clause.
* Dependent Clause: A dependent clause cannot stand alone as a sentence; it relies on the independent clause for meaning. It is often introduced by a subordinating conjunction (because, since, although, while, if, etc.).
* Example: Because the cat was sleepy, it sat on the mat.
Here's a table summarizing the differences:
| Sentence Type | Structure | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Simple | One independent clause | The cat sat on the mat. |
| Compound | Two or more independent clauses joined by a coordinating conjunction | The cat sat on the mat, and the dog chased its tail. |
| Complex | One independent clause and at least one dependent clause | Because the cat was sleepy, it sat on the mat. |
Key Differences:
* Clauses: Simple sentences have one, compound sentences have two or more, and complex sentences have one independent and at least one dependent.
* Connectors: Compound sentences use coordinating conjunctions, while complex sentences use subordinating conjunctions.
* Meaning: Simple sentences convey a single thought, compound sentences combine multiple related thoughts, and complex sentences show a cause-and-effect or other relationship between ideas.