NYSTCE English to Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) Practice Test

What defines a compound-complex sentence?

1. Only one independent clause

2. Two independent clauses with one dependent clause

3. Two or more independent clauses and one or more dependent clauses

4. Only dependent clauses without any independent clauses

The correct answer is: Two or more independent clauses and one or more dependent clauses

A compound-complex sentence is characterized by having multiple independent clauses and at least one dependent clause. This structure allows for more complex ideas to be expressed in a single sentence, showing relationships between different thoughts and details. When a sentence includes two or more independent clauses, it conveys separate but related ideas that can stand alone as sentences. The presence of at least one dependent clause adds depth, as this clause cannot stand alone and provides additional information or context to the independent clauses. This combination enhances the sentence's complexity and enables more sophisticated expression of ideas. In contrast, sentences with only one independent clause lack the necessary elements that define a compound-complex structure. Similarly, a structure containing only dependent clauses does not fulfill the requirement of having independent clauses, making it impossible to qualify as compound-complex.