Declarative Sentence - Definition, Types and Examples Lesson

Lesson Overview

• What Is a Declarative Sentence?
• Types of Declarative Sentences With Examples
• Uses of Declarative Sentences
• Examples of Declarative Sentences

We group sentences based on their purpose, and each type serves a unique role in communication. Among them, declarative sentences are the most common, as they are used to state facts, opinions, or observations, making them essential for conveying information in both writing and speaking.

What Is a Declarative Sentence?

A declarative sentence is a sentence that makes a statement or provides information. 

It always ends with a period (.). 

This type of sentence is used to share facts, opinions, or descriptions in a clear and direct way.

Examples:

• The sun rises in the east.
• Our school has a big playground.
  
  

Types of Declarative Sentences With Examples

A declarative sentence can be formed with different combinations of independent and subordinate clauses. These sentences can vary in structure, depending on how many clauses are used and their relationship.

There are four main types of declarative sentences:

Simple Sentence

A simple sentence contains only one independent clause, expressing a complete thought.

Example: The dog barks loudly.

Compound Sentence

A compound sentence has two or more independent clauses joined by a coordinating conjunction (such as "and," "but," or "or") or a semicolon.

Example: The dog barks loudly, and the cat hides under the couch.

In this example, two independent clauses are joined by the coordinating conjunction "and." Each clause could stand alone as a complete sentence: "The dog barks loudly" and "the cat hides under the couch."

Complex Sentence

A complex sentence contains one independent clause and at least one subordinate clause. The subordinate clause may come before or after the independent clause.

Example: Because it is raining, the dog stays inside.

In this example, the independent clause "the dog stays inside" is combined with the subordinate clause "Because it is raining." The subordinate clause provides additional information about why the dog stays inside.

Compound-Complex Sentence

A compound-complex sentence has two or more independent clauses and at least one subordinate clause. It follows the rules for both compound and complex sentences.

Example: Because it is raining, the dog stays inside, and the cat sleeps on the couch.In this example, the sentence contains two independent clauses, "the dog stays inside" and "the cat sleeps on the couch," joined by the coordinating conjunction "and." It also includes the subordinate clause "Because it is raining," which explains why the dog stays inside.

Uses of Declarative Sentences

Declarative sentences serve various purposes in communication. They can be used to:

• Share details about everyday activities or routines.
• Give precise information on a particular subject.
• State universal truths or scientific observations.
• Offer explanations or clarifications about a topic.

Examples of Declarative Sentences

1. The library opens at 9 AM every day.
2. I like to visit the beach during summer vacation.
3. A rainbow appears after it rains.
4. The cookies smell delicious as they bake in the oven.
5. My favorite hobby is painting with watercolors.

Take This Quiz :

Quiz on declarative and interrogative sentences