What is a complex sentence?

A complex sentence is defined as containing one independent clause paired with one or more dependent clauses. This structure allows for a more intricate expression of ideas, as the independent clause can stand alone as a complete thought, while the dependent clause relies on the independent one for its meaning.

For instance, in the sentence "Although it was raining, we went for a walk," "Although it was raining" is the dependent clause that cannot stand alone, while "we went for a walk" is the independent clause that conveys a complete thought. The combination of these clauses allows the writer to convey additional information, show relationships between ideas, and demonstrate contrasts or conditions.

The other options describe different sentence structures. A sentence with more than one subject or predicate does not necessarily mean it is complex; it could simply be compound or compound-complex based on the number of independent clauses. A sentence consisting of only one clause cannot be complex, as it lacks the necessary dependent clause. Lastly, a definition focused solely on the verb and its modifiers misses the essential components required to classify a sentence as complex.