Types of Sentences
Understanding how to classify sentences by their purpose and structure is fundamental to mastering English grammar and expressing yourself clearly.
Types of Sentences by Function
Assertive (or Declarative) Sentences
These sentences make a statement, give information, or express an opinion. They end with a period (.).
- She is a good teacher.
- He does not like coffee.
Interrogative Sentences
These sentences ask a question and always end with a question mark (?).
- What are you doing?
- Is he coming today?
Imperative Sentences
These sentences give a command, make a request, or offer advice. The subject is usually an implied "you".
- Close the door.
- Please help me with this.
Exclamatory Sentences
These sentences express strong emotion like surprise, excitement, or anger and end with an exclamation mark (!).
- What a beautiful place!
- I can’t believe this!
Types of Sentences by Structure
Simple Sentence
Contains one independent clause. It expresses a single, complete thought.
- He plays football.
- The birds are flying.
Compound Sentence
Contains two independent clauses joined by a coordinating conjunction (like and, but, or).
- I was tired, but I finished my work.
- She loves to read, and he enjoys music.
Complex Sentence
Contains one independent clause and at least one dependent clause.
- When I was a child, I loved cartoons.
- She didn’t come because she was ill.
Compound-Complex Sentence
Contains two or more independent clauses and at least one dependent clause.
- I was late because I missed the bus, but my teacher understood.
- Although it was raining, we went for a walk, and we enjoyed it.