Sentence Lesson - Definition, Types and Examples

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Updated: Feb 5, 2025

Lesson

A sentence is essential for communication, serving different purposes like informing, questioning, or commanding. Sentences can vary in length and complexity, but all convey meaning. Proper structure is crucial to clearly communicate the intended message.

What Is a Sentence?

A sentence is a group of words that expresses a complete thought.

It begins with a capital letter and ends with a punctuation mark, such as a period, question mark, or exclamation mark.

A sentence must have at least one subject (who or what the sentence is about) and one predicate (what the subject does or is).

For example:

The dog runs fast.

In this sentence, "The dog" is the subject, and "runs fast" is the predicate.

Take This Quiz :

Grammar Quiz On Types of Sentence!

Formation of Sentences in English

To build a clear sentence, we need to follow a specific word order. Here's how sentences are typically formed:

Start with the subject: This is who or what the sentence is about.
Add the verb: This shows the action or state of being.
Include the object or other details: This adds more information about the action or subject.

For example: She reads books.

In this sentence, "She" is the subject, "reads" is the verb, and "books" is the object.

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Sentence Structure Quiz With Answers!

Parts of a Sentence

Sentences can be divided into two main parts:

Subject

The noun, noun phrase, or pronoun that tells us who or what the sentence is about. It typically appears at the start of the sentence.

Predicate

The part that tells what the subject does or is. It usually begins with a verb and includes all other details in the sentence.

Example:

The teacher explained the lesson clearly.

Subject: The teacher
Predicate: Explained the lesson clearly.

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Parts Of A Sentence Quiz - Questions With Answers

Components of a Sentence

A sentence can be made up of five key components:

Component	Description	Example	Explanation
Subject	The person or thing performing the action.	The cat sleeps on the mat.	"The cat" is the subject, performing the action of sleeping.
Verb	The action or state of being in the sentence.	The cat sleeps on the mat.	"Sleeps" is the verb, indicating the action the subject is doing.
Object	The receiver of the action.	She kicked the ball.	"The ball" is the object, receiving the action of being kicked.
Complement	A word/phrase that adds more information about the subject or object.	He is a teacher.	"A teacher" complements the subject "He" by providing more detail.
Adjunct	Words or phrases that provide extra details about the action, complement, or other parts of the sentence.	She quickly ran to the store.	"To the store" and "quickly" are adjuncts, providing extra information about the action.

Note: While most sentences include a subject and a verb, some sentences begin with the verb for emphasis or style.

Types of Sentences

Sentences can be categorized based on their function and structure. There are four types based on function and three based on structure. Let's explore each of them in detail:

Sentences based on their functions:

Type of Sentence	Description	Example
Declarative Sentence	Makes a statement or provides information.	The sun rises in the east.
Imperative Sentence	Gives a command, request, or instruction. Often starts with a verb, no subject.	Close the door quietly.
Interrogative Sentence	Asks a question.	What time does the train arrive?
Exclamatory Sentence	Expresses strong emotions or excitement.	How amazing that performance was!

Sentences based on their structure:

Type of Sentence	Description	Example
Simple Sentence	Contains only one independent clause.	The cat jumped onto the table.
Compound Sentence	Contains two independent clauses joined by a coordinating conjunction.	She likes to read, and he enjoys playing video games.
Complex Sentence	Contains one independent clause and at least one dependent clause.	Because it was raining, we stayed inside.
Compound-Complex Sentence	Contains two independent clauses and one or more dependent clauses.	Although it was raining, we went for a walk, and we had a great time.