Complex sentence

A complex sentence contains a main clause and at least one subordinate clause. The subordinate clause depends on the main clause and cannot stand alone. The subordinate clause adds detail, reason, time or condition, as in because she was late, she ran.

Here the opening clause depends on the second. Complex sentences let a writer show relationships between ideas and control emphasis. The main clause carries more weight than the subordinate one.

They allow more sophisticated, precise expression than simple or compound sentences, and mastering them is a mark of maturing writing.

In the reading paper, analysing complex sentences lets you discuss how a writer packs in detail, shows cause or contrast, and controls emphasis. In your own writing, using complex sentences accurately demonstrates the sentence variety and control that examiners reward highly. Placing a subordinate clause first or last changes the emphasis.

Understanding complex sentences gives you a powerful tool for shaping meaning and guiding the reader's attention.

"Although she had practised for weeks, her voice shook as she stepped onto the stage" uses a subordinate clause to set up the surprise of her nerves.

In analysis, identify the main and subordinate clauses. Then explain how the structure controls emphasis or shows a relationship such as cause or contrast. In your own writing, use complex sentences to combine ideas smoothly and vary where you place the subordinate clause for effect.

Mixing them with simple and compound sentences is what earns credit for sentence variety.

You may also find writing formats and annotated model responses useful. Next, visit our skills guides for IGCSE English to see terms like this used in real answers. Our IGCSE English tuition page explains how lessons run. When you are ready, the paid one-hour trial is the first step.