Simple, Compound, Complex, Fragment, and Run-Ons - Definitions and Examples

A sentence with one independent clause and at least one dependent clause

Complex Sentence Definition

Even if you find the building, you'll never get home.

Complex Sentence Example

We go to the store whenever we run out of milk.

Complex Sentence Example

A sentence with two or more independent clauses, often joined by one or more conjunctions(,and ,but ,or)

Compound Sentence Definition

The hard drive is fine, but the fan has burnt out.

Compound Sentence Example

A sentence with two independent clauses connected with a comma and a conjunction or a semicolon; one of the main clauses has a subordinate clause attached

Compound-Complex Sentence Definition

He went to the store because he was out of milk, and I waited until he got home.

Compound-Complex Sentence Example

Has a subject and predicate; CANNOT stand alone

Dependent clause

Has a subject and predicate; CAN stand alone

Independent clause

two or more sentences incorrectly written as one sentence

Run on Definition

Nat boarded the ship the crowd waved.

Run on Example

We went on the ship, I got seasick.

Run on Example

An incomplete sentence that is missing a subject, a predicate or both

Sentence Fragment Definition

My brother, my other brother, and me.

Sentence Fragment Example

Went to the store the other day.

Sentence Fragment Example

The line for the ride stretched around the corner.

Simple Sentence example

A sentence consisting of one independent clause and no dependent clause.

Simple sentence Definition