Compound Complex Worksheet
Compound Complex Worksheet
Compound-Complex Sentences
A compound-complex sentence consists of two or more main clauses and one or more
subordinate clauses. It may help you to think of a compound-complex sentence as a compound sentence
plus a subordinate clause. Actually, the compound-complex sentences join two sentences, at least one of
which has a subordinate clause. The main clauses are joined by either a coordinating conjunction or a
semicolon.
Analyzing Compound-Complex Sentences. Underline each main clause once and each subordinate
clause twice.
1. Pam knew where the park was, and she gave us directions.
2. After our team won, we decided to celebrate, so we led a parade through town.
3. When the committee met, witnesses testified about poor living conditions, and experts
suggested improvements.
4. Sharon has been studying piano since she was six years old, and she enjoys it.
5. Greg said that we should start without him, but we waited anyway.
6. The radio that you like is on sale, but it is still expensive.
7. The bookstore ordered the items that Tim requested, and he is waiting for them.
8. The mayor outlined his plane, which was very complicated, and then reporters asked
questions about it.
9. The sale items were so popular that they were gone in an hour, and the manager agreed
to order more.
10. Scientists have identified the agents that cause the disease, but they haven’t found a
cure for it.
11. The actor was nervous before he auditioned; he felt that he did well, though.
13. Vanessa’s sister is a computer programmer; she translates information into symbols
that the computer reads.
14. Since the rain stopped, the game can be resumed; our team is ahead.
15. High blood pressure is a serious condition that affects many people, and it should be
treated by a qualified physician.
WORKSHEET 172
A Review of Sentences
A simple sentence contains one subject and one predicate. It expresses one main idea. Parts of the
sentence, however, may be compound.
A compound sentence is made up of two simple sentences that express related ideas. These sentences
are connected by a semicolon or by a comma and a coordinating conjunction. A semicolon that connects
two simple sentences may be followed by a conjunctive adverb.
A complex sentence contains one main clause and one or more subordinate clauses. The subordinate
clauses may be used as adverbs, adjectives, or nouns. A complex sentence expresses one main idea and
one or more dependent ideas.
A compound-complex sentence contains two main clauses and one or more subordinate clauses. The
subordinate clauses may be adverb, adjective, or noun clauses. A compound-complex sentence expresses
two main ideas, as well as one dependent idea.
The line is busy, but I will try again when I finish this.
Identifying the Kinds of Sentences. For each sentence, write Simple, Compound, Complex, or
Compound-Complex to show what kind it is.