What is the Difference Between Compound and Complex Sentences?

The difference between compound and complex sentences lies in the number of independent and dependent clauses they contain. Here's a breakdown of the differences:

• Compound Sentences:
• Contain at least two independent clauses.
• Joined by a coordinating conjunction (and, but, for, nor, or, so, yet) or a semi-colon.
• No dependent clauses are present.
• Example: "Mary went to the market, and John went to the park."
• Complex Sentences:
• Contain one independent clause and one or more dependent clauses.
• The dependent clause is introduced by a subordinating conjunction (after, although, because, since, when) or a relative pronoun (that, which, who).
• Example: "Scott wore his hat because he was playing in the sun."

In summary, compound sentences connect two or more independent clauses, while complex sentences connect one independent clause with one or more dependent clauses.

Comparative Table: Compound vs Complex Sentences

Here is a table that highlights the differences between compound and complex sentences:

• A compound sentence consists of two or more independent clauses, which are simple sentences that can stand alone.
• A complex sentence, on the other hand, comprises one main/independent clause and one or more subordinate/dependent clauses.
• In a compound sentence, the independent clauses are joined together by a coordinating conjunction.
• In a complex sentence, the main/independent clause and the subordinate/dependent clause(s) are linked together by a subordinating conjunction.