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Conjunctions in compound-complex sentences Exercises in English language

Student writing Russian sentences for language learning.

Conjunctions play a crucial role in shaping the clarity and flow of compound-complex sentences in English. These sentences, which combine at least two independent clauses and one or more dependent clauses, require a deft use of coordinating, subordinating, and correlative conjunctions to connect ideas seamlessly. Mastering the use of conjunctions in such sentences not only enhances writing proficiency but also aids in expressing intricate ideas with precision and coherence. Understanding the various types of conjunctions and their appropriate applications is essential for anyone aiming to elevate their command of the English language. In compound-complex sentences, conjunctions serve as the glue that binds different parts of a sentence together, ensuring that the relationships between ideas are clear and logical. Coordinating conjunctions like "and," "but," and "or" link independent clauses, while subordinating conjunctions such as "although," "because," and "since" introduce dependent clauses that add depth and detail. Correlative conjunctions, like "either...or" and "neither...nor," work in pairs to connect balanced elements within the sentence. Through targeted grammar exercises, learners can practice and perfect the art of using these conjunctions to construct sophisticated, nuanced sentences that reflect a high level of linguistic competence.

Exercise 1

1. She wanted to go to the park, *but* it started to rain, so they stayed home (contrast). 2. He finished his homework early, *so* he could watch his favorite TV show (result). 3. Although it was late, *and* he was very tired, he decided to finish the project (addition). 4. The children were playing outside, *while* their parents prepared dinner (simultaneous actions). 5. She didn't like the movie, *nor* did she enjoy the book, so she decided to go for a walk instead (negative addition). 6. They could either go to the beach, *or* they could visit the museum, but they couldn't do both (choice). 7. He was very hungry, *yet* he didn't want to eat anything unhealthy (contrast). 8. I will call you, *when* I arrive at the airport, so you can pick me up (time). 9. The teacher explained the lesson clearly, *so* the students understood it well (result). 10. Since he was feeling unwell, *but* he didn't want to miss the meeting, he attended online (contrast).

Exercise 2

1. She enjoys painting, *and* she often spends her weekends at the art studio, *because* it helps her relax (two conjunctions: one to connect clauses and one to give a reason). 2. The project was challenging, *but* we completed it on time, *although* we faced many obstacles (one conjunction to show contrast and one to introduce a dependent clause). 3. He wanted to go to the concert, *yet* he had to finish his homework, *so* he stayed home (one conjunction to show contrast and one to show a result). 4. The children were excited, *for* they were going to the zoo, *and* they couldn't wait to see the animals (two conjunctions: one to give a reason and one to connect clauses). 5. She studied hard, *so* she passed the exam, *even though* it was difficult (one conjunction to show a result and one to introduce a dependent clause). 6. He was tired, *but* he went for a run, *since* he had made a commitment (one conjunction to show contrast and one to give a reason). 7. We can go to the beach, *or* we can visit the museum, *if* the weather is bad (one conjunction to show a choice and one to introduce a condition). 8. She loves reading, *and* she always has a book with her, *because* she likes to read during her free time (two conjunctions: one to connect clauses and one to give a reason). 9. The team worked hard, *so* they won the championship, *although* they were the underdogs (one conjunction to show a result and one to introduce a dependent clause). 10. He enjoys playing soccer, *but* he doesn't have time for it, *since* he started his new job (one conjunction to show contrast and one to give a reason).

Exercise 3

1. She wanted to go to the concert, *but* she had too much homework to finish (contrast conjunction). 2. They decided to visit the museum *after* they had lunch at their favorite café (time conjunction). 3. The weather was getting worse, *so* they decided to head back home early (cause-effect conjunction). 4. He didn't study for the exam, *yet* he managed to pass with flying colors (contrast conjunction). 5. I will call you *when* I arrive at the airport (time conjunction). 6. Although she was tired, *she* stayed up late to finish her project (subject for the second clause). 7. The team worked hard *because* they wanted to win the championship (reason conjunction). 8. I can't decide whether to watch a movie *or* read a book tonight (choice conjunction). 9. We missed the bus, *so* we had to walk all the way home (cause-effect conjunction). 10. He loves to play soccer, *and* he is also good at basketball (addition conjunction).