Category: English 9

Phrases (introductory), sentence fragments, and complete sentences

Phrases (introductory), sentence fragments, and complete sentences

Introductory phrases

Dictionary definition

The introductory phrase is typically a declarative sentence and is used to transition to a more detailed sentence. When you use an introductory line in your writing, you signal your reader to the message that is going to follow it. According to English Literature, there are five main types of introductory phrases.

My definition

Introductory phrases are a common part of current English language. They are typically at the start of a sentence to clarify what the following sentence will be about, hence why they are considered a declarative phrase.

Examples

Feeling hopeless, she went to sleep early.

To make new friends, one must socialize.

To concentrate one needs to remove all distractions.

On the bus, I rushed to complete my homework.

Upon my arrival home, I ate a snack.

 

Sentence fragments

Definition

a word, phrase, or clause that usually has in speech the intonation of a sentence but lacks the grammatical structure usually found in the sentences of formal and especially written composition.

My definition

Sentence fragments though commonly considered incorrect are still frequently used in English writing. Sentence fragments are much like complete sentences but lack grammatical structure

Examples

I really hate mowing the grass. Which is a problem because I have a huge lawn.

She made her mother a beautiful card. Her mother adored the card.

He couldn’t see that movie. Being only 12.

I bought four pizzas. To only feed two people.

Complete sentences

Definition

A complete sentence contains a subject and a predicate. First, let me clarify some of these terms. A subject is the main noun or pronoun that the sentence is about. The predicate contains the main verb that either demonstrates the subject’s action or is linking the subject to another noun or adjective in the predicate (as in a linking verb). Not only does the predicate contain the verb, but it also contains complements, which are any words that modify or accompany the verb. In order for a sentence to be complete, it must have at least one subject and one predicate. Another word for a complete sentence is an independent clause.

Examples

We ate dinner as a family, it was wonderful to feel reconnected with my family once again.

I sat down on my purple beanbag chair, as I did so I felt instantly relaxed.