French Complex Sentences
A sentence that contains two or more conjugated verbs is known as a complex sentence (une phrase complexe). These sentences are made up of two or more clauses, whereas simple sentences (les phrases simples) only contain one conjugated verb.
Examples in Action
Fiona cuisine pour ses invités.
Fiona a oublié d’acheter du lait quand elle a fait les courses.
Fiona va vite acheter du lait avant que ses invités arrivent et elle termine le dessert à temps.
The Three Types of Clauses
1. Independent Clause
une proposition indépendante
A simple sentence that exists in isolation without connection to another clause.
2. Subordinate Clause
une proposition subordonnée
A dependent clause that cannot form a sentence on its own; it always exists in relation to a main clause.
3. Main Clause
une proposition principale
Similar to an independent clause, but it introduces a subordinate clause. It retains its meaning if the subordinate clause is removed.
Ways to Connect Clauses
Juxtaposition
Connecting independent clauses with a comma or semi-colon.
Coordination
Connecting with conjunctions like mais, ou, et, donc, or, ni, car.
Types of Subordinate Clauses
Subordinate clauses depend on a main clause and are usually introduced by a conjunction or relative pronoun.
Relative Clauses
Give more info about a noun.
Noun Clauses (Complements)
Act as the direct object referring back to the main verb.
Adverbial Clauses
Explain when, why, how, or conditionally an action happens.
Participle Clauses
Use a participle form of the verb to shorten a clause (has a different subject).
Practice Complex Sentences
Master the formation and connection of French complex sentences through targeted drills.