Lesson 246 - Parts of the Sentence - Compound Sentences

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A clause is a group of words having a subject and a verb. An independent clause can stand alone as a sentence. A dependent clause is always used as some part of speech. It can be an adjective, adverb, or noun. It cannot stand alone as a sentence.

A phrase is a group of words used as a sentence part. It does not have a subject and a verb. It can be a noun, adjective, or adverb. We have studied the following phrases: prepositional, gerund, participial, and infinitive.

A compound sentence combines two or more independent clauses. Commas separate the clauses of a compound sentence. (A short sentence joined by and is sometimes combined without a comma.)  A semicolon can take the place of the conjunction and comma. Only clauses closely related in thought should be joined to make a compound sentence.

 

Example: 

She talks and he listens.

Instructions: Tell whether each group of words is a clause or a phrase.

1. Before the gate broke

2. After having eaten

3. In answer to your question

4. How I will mark the reports

5. Made of sweat and blood

6. Upon whom the blame lies

7. By remaining totally still

8. Why did you stop

9. After everyone ceased shouting

10. To take me home

--For answers scroll down.

Answers:

1. clause

2. phrase

3. phrase

4. clause

5. phrase

6. clause

7. phrase

8. clause

9. clause

10. phrase

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