Complex sentence

A complex sentence is a sentence with an independent clause and at least one dependent clause (subordinating clause). The dependent clause is introduced by either a subordinate conjunction such as although, or because or a relative pronoun such as who or which.

[edit] Examples

When I saw what you had done, I was sad.
- Independent clause: I was sad
- Dependent clauses: When I saw and what you had done

Knowing that you hate me makes me sad.
- A complex sentence with a sub-clause functioning as a subject.
- Independent clause: (subject) makes me sad.
- Dependent clause: That you hate me (acting as the subject)

It makes me happy that you love me.
- A clefted complex sentence with a sub-clause indicating what the dummy pronoun "It" refers to.
- Independent clause: It makes me happy.
- Dependent clause: that you love me

The worksheet is where you have put it.
- A complex sentence with a sub-clause functioning as subject complement. "Be" is a copula verb; it links the sub-clause to the subject.
- Independent clause: The worksheet is (complement).
- Dependent clause: where you have put it (acting as the complement)

Also when using a verb don't use "ing" endings.

Some voters want special consideration that accounts for their handicaps.
- This complex sentence's subordinate clause is offset by a relative pronoun rather than by a subordinating conjunction. "That" serves a nominal function and serves as a substitute for the noun "consideration" in the independent clause.
- Independent clause: Some voters want special consideration
- Dependent clause: that accounts for their handicaps (modifies the noun in the independent clause)