Mastering Compound Sentences: Coordination and Subordination
Coordinated Clauses
Two or more independent clauses joined by a coordinating conjunction form a compound sentence. These clauses are grammatically independent of each other.
Examples: John is studying, and Mary is listening to music. We wanted to go, but we could not.
Coordinated clauses are classified by the relationship they express:
Additive (Copulative) Coordination
Propositions succeed one another or add information. They are related by conjunctions such as and, nor, or even (when negative).
Examples: I raised the issue and resolved it. He worked and solved the problems. Neither wants nor knows how.
Disjunctive Coordination
One proposition excludes the other, presenting alternatives. They are joined by the conjunction or.
Examples: Do you come or stay? As a reward, I will give you a book or take you to the movies. Are you telling the truth or hiding something?
Distributive Coordination
They express alternating actions or states that are not mutually exclusive. Common correlative structures include: well…well, as soon…as, and some…others.
Examples: As soon as they are amiable, they quarrel. Some were happy; others were worried.
Explanatory Coordination
One clause clarifies the meaning of the preceding clause. Joined by conjunctive phrases like that is, or in other words.
Example: He composes verses; that is, he feels like a poet.
Adversative Coordination
One proposition restricts, precludes, or denies the assertion in the other. They are joined by conjunctions and conjunctive phrases such as but, yet, however, or nevertheless.
Example: Ana is considered sympathetic, but she is not funny.
Subordinate Clauses (Dependent Clauses)
Subordinate clauses perform a specific syntactic function within the complex sentence, acting as a noun, an adjective, or an adverb.
Nominal (Substantive) Clauses
These clauses function specifically as a noun or nominal group within the compound sentence.
Functions include:
Subject
Often introduced by the conjunction that.
Example: I am thrilled that you’re so happy.
Predicate Nominative (Attribute)
Linked to the main clause by a linking verb and the conjunction that.
Example: Our desire is that you study computer science.
Complement of a Noun
Introduced by a conjunction, often preceded by a preposition.
Example: He expressed his confidence that he would approve.
Complement of an Adjective
Attached to the main clause with that, preceded by a preposition.
Example: They are desperate for you to return.
Complement of an Adverb
Example: We were very close to giving us the first prize.
Direct Object (Direct Complement)
Example: Carmen thinks Jack will return.
Nominal clauses functioning as direct objects can be expressed in:
- Direct Style: You said then: “I will.”
- Reported Speech: You said then that you would.
Adjective (Relative) Clauses
These clauses perform the function of an adjective, typically modifying a noun (the antecedent). They are introduced by relative pronouns: who, which, or that.
Example: That bright star that is shining is Venus.
Relative clauses can be:
Restrictive (Specified)
Selects or limits the antecedent noun. It is essential to the meaning and is not set off by commas.
Example: They tore down the forest trees that are old. (Only the old trees were removed.)
Non-Restrictive (Explanatory)
Provides additional, non-essential information about the antecedent. It is usually set off by commas.
Example: They tore down the forest trees, which are old. (All the trees were torn down, and they happen to be old.)
Adverbial Clauses
These clauses perform the same function as an adverb in simple sentences, modifying the verb, adjective, or other adverb. They are classified by the circumstance they express:
Location
Example: We walked to where the trail ends.
Time
Report on an action performed before, after, or while the main action.
Example: When the job ends, we will go to your house.
Manner
Report on how the action is performed. Common conjunctions are as and like.
Example: I went to the train as quickly as I could.
Comparative
Express comparisons:
- Equality: This guy is as hard a worker as I had said.
- Superiority: You are more sympathetic than your brother.
- Inferiority: I eat less fruit and vegetables than meat.
Causal (Reason)
Express the reason why the main action happens.
Example: I threw away the pen because it had no ink.
Consecutive (Result)
Express a result of the main action.
Examples: I think, therefore I am. It’s so nice that everyone likes him. Think about things so that you do nothing.
Conditional
State a condition necessary for the compliance of the principal action.
Example: If it’s cold, I will not go to the party.
Concessive
Express a difficulty that hinders the principal action but does not prevent its realization.
Example: Even if you’re tired, you must do the job.
Purpose (Final)
Indicate the purpose or aim of the main action.
Example: Take five thousand Pesetas to buy yourself a pair of slippers.