Compound Sentence

A compound sentence is composed of at least two independent clauses. It does not require a dependent clause.

The clauses are joined by a coordinating conjunction (with or without a comma), a semicolon that functions as a conjunction, a colon instead of a semicolon between two sentences when the second sentence explains or illustrates the first sentence and no coordinating conjunction is being used to connect the sentences, or a conjunctive adverb preceded by a semicolon.

A conjunction can be used to make a compound sentence. Conjunctions are words such as for, and, nor, but, or, yet, and so.

Examples:

• I started on time, but I arrived late.
• I will accept your offer or decline it; these are the two options.
• The law was passed: from April 1, all cars would have to be tested.
• The war was lost; consequently, the whole country was occupied.

The use of a comma to separate two independent clauses without the addition of an appropriate conjunction is called a comma splice and is generally considered an error (when used in the English language).

Example:

• The sun was shining, everyone appeared happy.