Conversion of a Simple Sentence into a Complex Sentence

Conversion of a simple sentence into a complex sentence

A simple sentence has one clause and one finite verb.

A complex sentence has one main clause and one or more subordinate clauses.

In order to convert a simple sentence into a complex sentence, you have to expand a word or phrase into a clause.

• She failed despite working hard. (Simple sentence)
• She failed although / though she worked hard. (Complex sentence)

We converted the phrase despite working hard into the clause although she worked hard.

Exercise

Convert the following simple sentences into complex sentences.

1. He confessed to his crime.

2. He confessed to having stolen the money.

3. He bought his uncle’s estate.

4. He worked hard to pass the examination.

5. In his childhood, Lincoln could not go to school.  

Answers

1. He confessed that he had committed a crime. / He confessed that he was guilty.  

2. He confessed that he had stolen the money.

3. He bought the estate which belonged to his uncle.

4. He worked hard so that he might pass the examination.

5. When he was a child, Lincoln could not go to school.