Sentence Structures Vocabulary

one independent clause with subject and predicate

“She ran. Direct. Powerful. Often underused.”

Origin: Latin `simplex` (single, uncomplicated)

two independent clauses joined by a conjunction

“She ran, and he followed. Equal weight to both ideas.”

Origin: Latin `componere` (to put together)

one independent clause with one or more dependent clauses

“Although she ran, she couldn't escape. Subordination creates hierarchy.”

Origin: Latin `complexus` (embracing, encompassing)

builds to the main point at the end

“Despite the rain, the cold, and his exhaustion, he finished the race.”

Origin: Greek `periodos` (cycle, rounded sentence)

states the main point first, then adds modifying details

“He finished the race, legs burning, lungs screaming, heart pounding.”

Origin: Latin `cumulare` (to heap up)

main clause first, followed by subordinate elements

“She won the prize, which surprised everyone, especially her critics.”

Origin: From its relaxed, extended structure

parallel structures of equal weight

“Easy to read, hard to write. Ask not what your country can do for you...”

Origin: From the visual balance of parallel elements

places the verb before the subject for emphasis

“Never have I seen such courage. Gone are the days of simple solutions.”

Origin: Latin `invertere` (to turn upside down)