Основы теоретической грамматики английского языка

 
 Lecture 13. Compound sentences.
Outline 
1. The characteristics of compound sentences. 
2. “Leading” and “sequential” clauses of compound sentences. 
 
THE CHARACTERISTICS OF COMPOUND SENTENCES. 
The compound sentence is a composite sentence built on the principle of coordination. 
Coordination, the same as subordination, can be expressed either syndetically or asyndetically. 
The main semantic relations between the clauses connected coordinatively are 
copulative, adversative, disjunctive, causal, consequential, resultative. Similar semantic types of 
relations are to be found between independent, separate sentences forming a continual text. 
Some subordinate clauses of a complex sentence can also be separated in the text, thus 
being changed into specific independent sentences. Cf:. 
Suddenly Laura paused as if she was arrested by something invisible from here. > 
Suddenly Laura paused. As if she was arrested by something invisible from here. 
“LEADING” AND “SEQUENTIAL” CLAUSES OF COMPOUND SENTENCES 
The compound sentence is derived from two or more base sentences which, are 
connected on the principle of coordination either synthetically or asyndetically. The base 
sentences joined into one compound sentence lose their independent status and become 
coordinate clauses - parts of a composite unity. The first clause is "leading" (the "leader" clause), 
the successive clauses are "sequential".
The coordinating connectors, or coordinators, are divided into conjunctions proper and 
semi-functional clausal connectors of adverbial character. The main coordinating conjunctions, 
both simple and discontinuous, are: and, but, or, nor, neither, for, either ... or, neither ... nor, etc. 
The main adverbial coordinators are: then, yet, so, thus, consequently, nevertheless, however, etc. 
The adverbial coordinators, unlike pure conjunctions, as a rule can shift their position in the 
sentence (the exceptions are the connectors yet and so). Cf.: Mrs. Dyre stepped into the room, 

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however the host took no notice of it. > Mrs. Dyre stepped into the room, the host, however, took 
no notice of it. 

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