Identifying Incomplete Sentences- A Guide to Recognizing Which of the Following Are Not Complete Sentences

Which of the following are not complete sentences?

Understanding the difference between complete and incomplete sentences is crucial in the realm of grammar and language. A complete sentence is a statement that contains a subject and a predicate, expressing a complete thought. On the other hand, an incomplete sentence lacks either a subject or a predicate, making it unable to convey a complete thought. In this article, we will explore some examples of incomplete sentences and help you identify them more easily in your writing or speech.

Incomplete sentences can be categorized into several types, including fragments, run-ons, and comma splices. Each type has its own characteristics and rules that govern their formation. Let’s delve into each category to better understand how to identify incomplete sentences.

Fragments

Fragments are incomplete sentences that lack either a subject or a predicate. They often appear as clauses or phrases that could be part of a complete sentence but are not complete on their own. Here are some examples:

1. Walking through the park, the sun was shining brightly.
2. Because of the rain, I stayed indoors.

In these examples, the first sentence is a fragment because it lacks a subject, while the second sentence is a fragment because it lacks a predicate.

Run-ons

Run-ons occur when two or more independent clauses are joined without proper punctuation or conjunctions. This results in a sentence that is difficult to read and understand. Here are some examples:

1. I was hungry, I ate a sandwich.
2. She was tired, she decided to go to bed early.

To correct run-ons, you can use a comma and a conjunction, a semicolon, or rewrite the sentence as two separate sentences.

Comma Splices

Comma splices happen when two independent clauses are joined with just a comma, without any conjunction or punctuation. This creates a sentence that is grammatically incorrect and confusing. Here are some examples:

1. I was late for work, because I got stuck in traffic.
2. She was happy, she received a promotion.

To fix comma splices, you can use a comma and a conjunction, a semicolon, or rewrite the sentence as two separate sentences.

In conclusion, recognizing incomplete sentences is essential for maintaining clear and effective communication. By understanding the different types of incomplete sentences and their characteristics, you can improve your grammar and ensure that your writing or speech is grammatically correct and easy to understand. Always remember to check for fragments, run-ons, and comma splices to ensure that your sentences are complete and convey your intended message.