English

Positive Connotation: What, How, Examples (Complete Guide!)

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Words in the English Language function on many associations and subtexts. These are called ‘connotations’ and they may be positive, negative or even neutral. In this article we’re going to take a look at the concept of the ‘positive connotation’.

What is positive connotation?

A positive connotation is when a word, phrase or sentence has an optimistic or feel-good subtext to it.

It is when the word, phrase or sentence being used has good associations with it.

Although, whether a word has a positive connotation or no sometimes depends upon context or even how a particular person would perceive the word or phrase.

Examples-

A guest came into our house.

  • In the above sentence, the word ‘guest’ has a positive connotation as guests are always welcome.

An intruder came into our house.

  • On the other hand, the word ‘intruder’ has a negative connotation since someone has seemingly “intruded” into a person’s house.

How to use positive connotation?

A positive connotation can be used by using words or phrases that generally have a cheerful or happy associations with them.

One can actively choose words that lean toward a positive meaning.

Example-

This room has a certain scent I’ve smelled before.

  • In the above sentence, the word ‘scent’ has a positive connotation since that term usually denotes a pleasant smell.
  • One need not specify that the particular ‘scent’ is good since the word itself establishes that fact due to its positive connotation.

Where to use positive connotation?

A positive connotation maybe used wherever a person may want to convey a certain enthusiasm of what they’re talking about.

Positive connotations may also be used to convey a certain niceness from the speakers end.

Example-

She is confident in her abilities, even after all the failures.

  • In the above sentence, the word ‘confident’ has a positive connotation since it denotes a belief in oneself (within this context).
  • It especially has a positive connotation since the ‘confidence’ of the person in question is derived even after a bunch of failures.
  • The narrator narrating the above sentence is conveying the observation with a tone of niceness.

Positive connotation use

  • Positive connotations can be used to convey information in a diplomatic manner.

There are a lot of words in the English Language with positive connotations that help people in conveying a certain message in a kind way.

  • Words with positive connotations are more encouraging when directed toward someone or something.

Words and phrases with positive connotations, when used toward other people obviously have a better effect on their mood.

  • Sometimes people can use words or phrases with positive connotations to maybe convey a bad piece of information or news in a tactful manner.

Many professionals across various occupations use the words with positive connotations to give out bad news.

This tactic can be used by people for their inter-personal relationships as well.

Positive Connotation
Positive Connotation

Positive connotation examples

 

1.     My sister is the most strong–minded person I know.

In the above sentence, the term ‘strong-minded’ has a positive connotation.

This is because if even a mildly different word with a similar meaning like ‘stubborn’ were to be used, it would completely change the tone of the above statement.

2.     My niece is quite opinionated on many social and current events.

In the above sentence, the term ‘opinionated’ has a positive connotation.

This is because if even a mildly different word with a similar meaning like ‘biased’ were to be used, it would completely change the tone of the above statement.

3.     The recipe my aunt asked me to make was quite unique in taste.

In the above sentence, the term ‘unique’ has a positive connotation.

This is because if even a mildly different word with a similar meaning like ‘strange’ were to be used, it would completely change the tone of the above statement.

4.     I haven’t met anyone with a more go–getter attitude like his.

In the above sentence, the term ‘go-getter’ has a positive connotation.

This is because if even a mildly different word with a similar meaning like ‘opportunist’ were to be used, it would completely change the tone of the above statement.

5.     The group did any absolutely fantastic job on their project because of their meticulous group leader.

In the above sentence, the term ‘meticulous’ has a positive connotation.

This is because if even a mildly different word with a similar meaning like ‘fussy’ were to be used, it would completely change the tone of the above statement.

6.     Mark is one of our more flexible employees that we have at this company.

In the above sentence, the term ‘flexible’ has a positive connotation.

This is because if even a mildly different word with a similar meaning like ‘docile’ were to be used, it would completely change the tone of the above statement.

7.     The dress she gifted me has a bit of a vintage look to it.

In the above sentence, the term ‘vintage’ has a positive connotation.

This is because if even a mildly different word with a similar meaning like ‘old’ were to be used, it would completely change the tone of the above statement.

8.     The student was elated to hear her test results since she had worked very hard.

In the above sentence, the term ‘elated’ has a positive connotation.

This is because if even a mildly different word with a similar meaning like ‘hyped-up’ were to be used, it would completely change the tone of the above statement.

9.     The company employed all the methods they could for faster results on profits.

In the above sentence, the term ‘employed’ has a positive connotation.

This is because if even a mildly different word with a similar meaning like ‘exploited’ were to be used, it would completely change the tone of the above statement.

10.  I bought this couch for my living room at an extremely affordable price.

In the above sentence, the term ‘affordable’ has a positive connotation.

This is because if even a mildly different word with a similar meaning like ‘cheap’ were to be used, it would completely change the tone of the above statement.

11.  This pen might not look like it but was bought by him from a pretty high–end brand.

In the above sentence, the term ‘high-end’ has a positive connotation.

This is because if even a mildly different word with a similar meaning like ‘expensive’ were to be used, it would completely change the tone of the above statement.

12.  She has an assertive personality and that trait is exactly what they need at the new start-up.

In the above sentence, the term ‘assertive’ has a positive connotation.

This is because if even a mildly different word with a similar meaning like ‘bossy’ were to be used, it would completely change the tone of the above statement.

13.  He has a certain youthful sincerity about him which we all like.

In the above sentence, the term ‘youthful’ has a positive connotation.

This is because if even a mildly different word with a similar meaning like ‘naive’ were to be used, it would completely change the tone of the above statement.

14.  They came into our store along with their inquisitive toddler who just wouldn’t stop asking questions.

In the above sentence, the term ‘inquisitive’ has a positive connotation.

This is because if even a mildly different word with a similar meaning like ‘nosy’ were to be used, it would completely change the tone of the above statement.

15.  Our college dean is quite resolute in the decisions he makes for our institution.

In the above sentence, the term ‘resolute’ has a positive connotation.

This is because if even a mildly different word with a similar meaning like ‘obstinate’ were to be used, it would completely change the tone of the above statement.

16.  These two have been diligent students all their lives and it has almost always paid off.

In the above sentence, the term ‘diligent’ has a positive connotation.

This is because if even a mildly different word with a similar meaning like ‘studious’ were to be used, it would completely change the tone of the above statement.

17.  She had an extraordinary idea for a new product, but not everyone agreed with her.

In the above sentence, the term ‘extraordinary’ has a positive connotation.

This is because if even a mildly different word with a similar meaning like ‘different’ were to be used, it would completely change the tone of the above statement.

18.  My friends and I gazed at stars all night long during our picnic.

In the above sentence, the term ‘gazed’ has a positive connotation.

This is because if even a mildly different word with a similar meaning like ‘stared’ were to be used, it would completely change the tone of the above statement.

19.  My cousins were having a debate about whose clothing style is better.

In the above sentence, the term ‘debate’ has a positive connotation.

This is because if even a mildly different word with a similar meaning like ‘argument’ were to be used, it would completely change the tone of the above statement.

20.  The kid acts very excited when his favorite song plays on the radio.

In the above sentence, the term ‘excited’ has a positive connotation.

This is because if even a mildly different word with a similar meaning like ‘hyper’ were to be used, it would completely change the tone of the above statement.

21.  The bride opted for a more natural look for her intimate wedding.

In the above sentence, the term ‘natural’ has a positive connotation.

This is because if even a mildly different word with a similar meaning like ‘boring’ were to be used, it would completely change the tone of the above statement.

22.  She is the most considerate person I know.

In the above sentence, the term ‘considerate’ has a positive connotation.

This is because if even a mildly different word with a similar meaning like ‘pushed-over’ were to be used, it would completely change the tone of the above statement.

23.  He is quite generous with his spending habits.

In the above sentence, the term ‘generous’ has a positive connotation.

This is because if even a mildly different word with a similar meaning like ‘reckless’ were to be used, it would completely change the tone of the above statement.

24.  He is known to be quite clever due to his ability to read between the lines.

In the above sentence, the term ‘clever’ has a positive connotation.

This is because if even a mildly different word with a similar meaning like ‘cunning’ were to be used, it would completely change the tone of the above statement.

25.  My grandmother is quite thrifty when it comes to purchasing things for herself.

In the above sentence, the term ‘thrifty’ has a positive connotation.

This is because if even a mildly different word with a similar meaning like ‘stingy’ were to be used, it would completely change the tone of the above statement.

 

Conclusion

Hence, one can see how positive connotations can be used in a tactful way to convey different forms of messaging, be it positive in a true sense or sometimes even have negative undertones.

Your Guide to Proper Pronoun Use in English Grammar

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Pronouns are essential components of the English language, serving as substitutes for nouns in sentences. Proper pronoun use is crucial for effective communication, especially when referring to individuals with diverse gender identities. This guide provides detailed explanations, examples, and best practices for using pronouns correctly and respectfully. What Are Pronouns? Pronouns are words that replace … Read more

Unraveling Pronoun Ambiguity: A Comprehensive Guide from the Perspective of an Expert Writer

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Unraveling pronoun ambiguity in writing is a crucial skill for any aspiring writer or student of English. Pronouns, while essential for creating cohesive and concise prose, can often lead to confusion when their antecedents are unclear. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the various types of pronoun ambiguity, provide practical resolution techniques, and delve … Read more

17 Poetry Assonance Examples: What, Why, Where, How, When To Use

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When the same vowel sounds are repeated in a line in nearness or in close proximity, then it is called assonance. Assonance is a very common literary device that is used to give a sound effect to the written words. Assonance can be used in poetry and in prose. Here we are going to deal with poetry assonance.

  • 1. ‘A host, of golden daffodils’ – The Daffodils
  • 2. ‘Beside the lake, beneath the trees,’ – The Daffodils
  • 3. ‘Hear the mellow wedding bells, Golden bells!’ – Bells
  • 4. ‘What a world of solemn thought their monody compels!’ –Bells
  • 5. ‘It is the star to every wandering bark,’ – Sonnet 116
  • 6. ‘He will not see me stopping here’ – Stopping By Woods On A Snowy Evening
  • 7. ‘To watch his woods fill up with snow.’ Stopping By Woods On A Snowy Evening
  • 8. ‘I hold with those who favor fire.’ – Fire and Ice
  • 9. ‘Those images that yet, Fresh images beget,’ – Byzantium
  • 10. ‘Strips of tinfoil winking like people.’ – The Bee Meeting
  • 11. ‘Tyger Tyger, burning bright, In the forests of the night;’ – The Tyger
  • 12. ‘While I nodded, nearly napping; suddenly there came a tapping,  As of some one gently rapping, rapping at my chamber door’ – The Raven
  • 13. ‘You stand at the blackboard, daddy,’ – Daddy
  • 14. ‘Come leave the loathéd stage, And the more loathsome age,’ – Ode To Himself
  • 15. ‘You will never neglect or beat Them or silence or buy with a sweet.’ –The Mother
  • 16. ‘And from all around the haven the crumbling thunder of seas’ – The Feast of Famine
  • 17. ‘Over many a quaint and curious volume of forgotten lore’ – The Raven

Poetry Assonance Explanations

Here, we shall look in detail what assonance is used in each line and understand them.

1. ‘A host, of golden daffodils’ – The Daffodils

William Wordsworth has used assonance in this line, by repeating the vowel sound ‘o’ in the nearby words ‘host’, ‘golden’ and ‘daffodils’.

2. ‘Beside the lake, beneath the trees,’ – The Daffodils

William Wordsworth has used assonance in this line, by repeating the vowel sound ‘e’ in the nearby words ‘beside’, ‘beneath’ and ‘trees’.

3. ‘Hear the mellow wedding bells, Golden bells!’ – Bells

Edgar Allan Poe has used assonance in these lines, by repeating the vowel sound ‘e’ in the nearby words ‘mellow’, ‘wedding’ and ‘bells’.

4. ‘What a world of solemn thought their monody compels!’ –Bells

Edgar Allan Poe has used assonance in this line, by repeating the vowel sound ‘o’ in the nearby words ‘solemn’, ‘thought’, ‘monody’ and ‘compels’.

5. ‘It is the star to every wandering bark,’ – Sonnet 116

William Shakespeare has used assonance in this line, by repeating the vowel sound ‘a’ in the close by words ‘star’, ‘wandering’ and ‘bark’.

 6. ‘He will not see me stopping here’ – Stopping By Woods On A Snowy Evening

Robert Frost has used assonance in this line, by repeating the vowel sound ‘e’ in the nearby words ‘see’ and ‘me’.

7. ‘To watch his woods fill up with snow.’ Stopping By Woods On A Snowy Evening

Robert Frost has used assonance in this line, by repeating the vowel sound ‘i’ in the close by words ‘his’, ‘fill’ and ‘with’.

8. ‘I hold with those who favor fire.’ – Fire and Ice

Robert Frost has used assonance in this line, by repeating the vowel sound ‘o’ in the words in close proximity such as ‘hold’ and ‘those’.

9. ‘Those images that yet, Fresh images beget,’ – Byzantium

William Butler Yeats has used assonance in this line, by repeating the vowel sound ‘e’ in the nearby words ‘images’, ‘yet’, ‘images’ and ‘beget’.

10. ‘Strips of tinfoil winking like people.’ – The Bee Meeting

Sylvia Plath has used assonance in this line, by repeating the vowel sound ‘i’ in the close by words ‘strips’, ‘tinfoil’ and ‘winking’.

11. ‘Tyger Tyger, burning bright, In the forests of the night;’ – The Tyger

William Blake has used assonance in this line, by repeating the vowel sound ‘i’ in the words in close proximity such as ‘tyger’, ‘tyger’, ‘bright’ and ‘night’.

12. ‘While I nodded, nearly napping; suddenly there came a tapping, As of some one gently rapping, rapping at my chamber door’ – The Raven

Edgar Allan Poe has utilized assonance in these lines by the repetition of the vowel sound ‘a’ in the nearby words ‘napping’, ‘tapping’, ‘as’, ‘rapping’, ‘rapping’, and ‘at’.

13. ‘You stand at the blackboard, daddy,’ – Daddy

Sylvia Plath has used assonance in this line by repeating the vowel sound ‘a’ in the close by words ‘stand’, ‘blackboard’ and ‘daddy’.

14. ‘Come leave the loathéd stage, And the more loathsome age,’ – Ode To Himself

Ben Johnson in these lines has utilized assonance by repeating the vowel sound ‘o’ and ‘a’ in nearby words ‘loathed’, ‘more’, ‘loathsome’ and ‘stage’ and ‘age’ respectively.

15. ‘You will never neglect or beat, Them or silence or buy with a sweet.’ –The Mother

Gwendolyn Brooks has used assonance in the above lines by repeating the vowel sounds ‘e’, ‘i’ and ‘ee’ in words in close proximity such as ‘neglect’, ‘them’; ‘silence’, ‘buy’ and ‘beat’, ‘sweet’ respectively.

16. ‘And from all around the haven the crumbling thunder of seas’ – The Feast of Famine

Robert Louis Stevenson has used assonance in the above lines by repeating the vowel sound ‘u’, in words in close proximity such as ‘crumbling’ and ‘thunder’.

17. ‘Over many a quaint and curious volume of forgotten lore’ – The Raven

Edgar Allan Poe has used assonance in the above lines by repeating the vowel sound ‘u’, in nearby words ‘curious’ and ‘volume’.

What is poetry assonance?

Poetry Assonance is a commonly used literary device by poets and authors. When the similar vowel sound is reused in a line in closeness or in proximity, then the literary used is known as assonance.  It is a literary device which is utilized in all forms of poetry and also in prose works.

Example: ‘Lives of great men all remind us, We can make our lives sublime,’ – A Psalm Of Life

Henry Wadsworth Longfellow has made use of the literary device assonance in these lines by repeating the vowel sound of ‘i’ in close proximity words ‘lives’ and ‘sublime’.

Why to use poetry assonance?

Poetry assonance is used as a literary device in poems by various poets by utilizing the same vowel sounds in the nearby words for the purpose of creating a sound effect or a rhythm inside the lines of the poem. Poets are also incorporate the poetry assonance to effectively convey the meaning and the emotion in the lines of the poem through sound.

Example: ‘The Immortal in the mortal is his name,’ – Where The Mind Is Without Fear.

Rabindranath Tagore has beautifully incorporated the literary device assonance in this line by repeating the vowel sound of ‘i’ in close proximity words ‘ immortal’, ‘in’, ‘is’ and ‘his’ to create an audio effect or rhythm inside this particular line.

How to use poetry assonance?

Poetry assonance must be used following three criteria,

  1. The words with the same or similar vowel sounds must be chosen.
  2. And the chosen words with the similar vowel sounds must be placed close to each other (in close proximity)
  3. Assonance cannot be created by the same vowels but by the same vowel sounds.

Example: ‘That solitude which suits abstruser musings’ – Frost At Midnight

Samuel Taylor Coleridge has utilized the literary device assonance in this line by repeating the vowel sound ‘u’. The words with similar vowel sounds that he has chosen are ‘solitude’, ‘suits’, ‘abstruser’ and ‘musings’. After that he has placed all these words nearby creating a vowel harmony or assonance.

Where to use poetry assonance?

A poetry assonance is created or formed only where the close by words have the same vowel sound. That is, it can be called assonance, only if the vowel sounds of the close proximity words are similar. When the vowel sounds of far by words are same, then the assonance cannot be created as there will no rhythm or sound affect created by them.

Example: ‘Stills the winds asleep in the solid drift’ – Iliad

Homer has incorporated the assonance as a literary device in this line by utilizing the vowel sound of ‘i’ in close by words such as ‘stills’, ‘winds’, ‘in’, ‘solid’ and ‘drift’ in the same line to create an audio effect.

It should be noted that assonance can be found in the words which are nearby in the same line or in the line that is preceding or succeeding. For instance, the repetition of the vowel sounds found in the first line and the fourth line cannot be called as assonance.

When to use poetry assonance?

Poetry assonance should be used when the writer or poet feels to have a rhythm inside the lines of the poetry. It can also be used when the poet is trying to communicate to the readers an emotion and a feeling or even trying to set the mood of the poem with the help of a sound effect. In such places, poetry assonance is utilized to bring the audio effect through the vowel sounds in the words nearby.

Example: ‘O might those sighs and tears returns again’ – Holy Sonnet 3

John Donne in this line has repeated the letters ‘igh’ with the vowel sound ‘i’ in the words ‘might’ and ‘sight’ which are in close proximity to create the assonance. This ‘i’ vowel sound in nearby words creates a rhythm to the line and also helps in expressing the emotions in an effective way.

Conclusion

Hence poetry assonance is a literary device utilized in poems to add beauty to the lines of the poetry by adding sound effect and rhythm to the written words. Assonance is thus the repetition of the same vowel sound and not the same vowel in the words that are placed nearby.

What is an Oxymoron? A Comprehensive Guide

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An oxymoron is a rhetorical device that combines two words or phrases that seem to be contradictory or have opposite meanings. This figure of speech is used to create a striking effect, often to convey a complex or nuanced idea. The term “oxymoron” itself is an example of this concept, as it comes from the Greek words “oxys” (sharp) and “moros” (dull), creating a phrase that is both sharp and dull simultaneously.

Definition and Examples

Definition

An oxymoron is a phrase that combines two words that seem to be the opposite of each other. These words or phrases are intentionally juxtaposed to create a paradoxical effect, challenging the reader or listener to reconcile the apparent contradiction.

Examples

  • “Mournful melodies”
  • “Growing smaller”
  • “Friendly fight”
  • “Virtual reality”
  • “Clearly confused”
  • “Bittersweet”
  • “Jumbo shrimp”
  • “Deafening silence”

Grammatical Specification

what is oxymoron

Formation

Oxymorons are typically formed by combining two words with opposing meanings, such as an adjective and a noun, or two nouns with contrasting connotations. The juxtaposition of these words creates a paradoxical or contradictory effect.

Usage

Oxymorons can be used in various contexts, including literature, poetry, and everyday speech, to create a dramatic effect, add humor, or highlight the complexity of an idea. They challenge the reader or listener to reconcile the opposing meanings, making them more memorable and thought-provoking.

Theoretical Explanation

Rhetorical Device

Oxymorons are a type of rhetorical device used to convey a paradoxical or contradictory idea. They are a powerful tool for writers and speakers to create a sense of tension, ambiguity, or irony in their work.

Autological

The term “oxymoron” is autological, meaning it is itself an example of the concept it describes. This self-referential quality adds to the complexity and interest of the term, as it highlights the inherent contradiction within the word itself.

Advanced Details

Types of Oxymorons

There are different types of oxymorons, including:

  1. Single-word Oxymorons: These are oxymorons that are formed by a single word, such as “pre-posterous” or “deafening silence.”
  2. Adjective-Noun Combinations: These oxymorons combine an adjective and a noun with opposing meanings, such as “cruel kindness” or “living dead.”
  3. Phrase Oxymorons: These are oxymorons that are formed by a longer phrase, such as “Broadway rock musical” or “jumbo shrimp.”

Logological Oxymorons

Logological oxymorons are a specific type of oxymoron that are created by combining words in a way that highlights their internal contradictions. These oxymorons play with the structure and meaning of the words themselves, such as “nook” (no + ok) or “Noyes” (no + yes).

References

  1. Byju’s. (n.d.). Oxymoron – Meaning, Definition and How to Use Them with Examples. Retrieved from https://byjus.com/english/oxymoron/
  2. Wikipedia. (n.d.). Oxymoron. Retrieved from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oxymoron
  3. Merriam-Webster. (n.d.). Oxymoron Definition & Meaning. Retrieved from https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/oxymoron
  4. Grammarly. (2022, June 2). Oxymoron: Definition and Example. Retrieved from https://www.grammarly.com/blog/oxymoron/
  5. Oregon State University College of Liberal Arts. (2020, June 15). What is an Oxymoron? || Definition & Examples. Retrieved from https://liberalarts.oregonstate.edu/wlf/what-oxymoron

Understanding Pronouns: A Comprehensive Guide with Advanced Details and Examples

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Pronouns are an essential part of language, used to refer to individuals and their identities. This comprehensive guide delves into the intricacies of pronouns, providing advanced details and practical examples to help you navigate the nuances of this important linguistic tool. What are Pronouns? Pronouns are words that substitute for nouns, allowing us to refer … Read more

29+ Verbal Irony Examples:What,How,When,Where To Use,Structure

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verbal irony example

This article will provide you with a short definition for verbal irony, along with 30 + verbal irony examples with detailed explanations. 

Verbal irony is a figure of speech wherein a speaker says one thing, but means something contrary to the thing they say. 

Now, let’s look at some examples of how verbal irony may be used in sentences. 

29+ Verbal Irony Examples in Sentences  

  1. When Naina’s father saw her applying nail polish instead of doing her maths homework, he said, “You look like you’re working very hard. I’m sure you’ll do excellently in your exams next week.”  
  2. When Shreya entered the classroom fifteen minutes late, her teacher said, “Ah, my most punctual student has finally arrived!” 
  3. Rishi described Mishti’s black-and-white painting as “bursting with colour.” 
  4. “Look how wonderful the weather is,” Kartik said while it was raining cats and dogs outside. 
  5. I would love to spend all day trying to locate your tie, but unfortunately I have a job to do myself. 
  6. “Everyone knows that mothers should have zero hobbies apart from their children,” Shwetha said when her mother in law chastised her for painting after coming home from work. 
  7. I’m so glad to have made it in time to watch my team lose today’s match. Thank god I didn’t miss it! 
  8. Thank god I have three exams this week…who needs sleep anyway? 
  9. Yes, she’s a very kind person, apart from the fact that she wants everyone around her dead. 
  10. Nir looked at the very small piece of chocolate his sister was offering him and said, “Wow, that’s generous of you.” 
  11. I would kill someone if it meant that I could go to Ed Sheeran’s concert next week. 
  12. I wanted to stab my eyes while watching that movie, it was so terrible. 
  13.  Today’s weather is the best weather Mumbai city has ever experienced. 
  14. This view is the single most beautiful view in the world, and that’s a fact. 
  15. I’m so hungry I could eat an entire field of rice. 
  16. When Maya saw Latika’s new earrings, she said, “oh my god, those diamonds are the size of spaceships!”
  17.  The mall’s new ice skating rink was so big and empty that Mishika said it looked like a white desert. 
  18. The circumference of Dia’s wrists and ankles are the same as the circumference of an easily broken twig. 
  19. My father tells me that he will love me even after he dies. 
  20. “I could eat this every day of my life for eternity,” Kiara said while eating a bowl of rasam. 
  21. When Rhea showed her results to her father, he said it was “not too good”—even though she had failed the paper. 
  22. When Shreya asked Hritik how he was doing at his grandmother’s funeral, he said, “I’ve been better.” 
  23. Kolkata is not the worst city in the world. 
  24. Mahima doesn’t have the best sense of humour in the world.
  25. When Riya won a very competitive scholarship to study in Japan, she modestly told everyone that it was “not a big deal.” 
  26. When Bhavesh woke up in the morning to find the entire road flooded, he said, “Looks like it was raining a bit last night.” 
  27. When asked to describe Disneyland to her younger sister, Fatima just said that there was a castle.
  28. I wouldn’t recommend jumping into that lake. It’s nearly frozen at this time of the year. 
  29. Jeh pointed at the tiger and said, “That’s a cute cat.” 
  30. Mount Everest is pretty big. 

When Naina’s father saw her applying nail polish instead of doing her maths homework, he said, “You look like you’re working very hard. I’m sure you’ll do excellently in your exams next week.” 

In this example, the subject (Naina’s father) employs verbal irony in the form of sarcasm when he tells Naina that she looks like she is “working very hard”—because, clearly, what he really means is that she looks like she is avoiding her work by painting her nails instead. 

When Shreya entered the classroom fifteen minutes late, her teacher said, “Ah, my most punctual student has finally arrived!” 

In this example, the subject (teacher) employs verbal irony in the form of sarcasm when she claims that Shreya is “punctual”—since what she actually means to say is that Shreya is fifteen minutes late to her class. 

Rishi described Mishti’s black-and-white painting as “bursting with colour.” 

In this example, the subject (Rishi) employs verbal irony in the form of sarcasm when he claims that a “black-and-white painting” is “bursting with colour”—since he implicitly seems to be suggesting that the painting is, in fact, lacking in colour. 

“Look how wonderful the weather is,” Kartik said while it was raining cats and dogs outside. 

In this example, the subject (Kartik) employs verbal irony in the form of sarcasm by claiming the weather is “wonderful” when it is clearly not. 

I would love to spend all day trying to locate your tie, but unfortunately I have a job to do myself. 

In this example, the subject employs verbal irony in the form of sarcasm when they claim that they would “love” to do an unpleasant and boring task (such as locating another person’s tie for them). 

“Everyone knows that mothers should have zero hobbies apart from their children,” Shwetha said when her mother in law chastised her for painting after coming home from work. 

In this example, the subject (Shwetha) employs verbal irony in the form of sarcasm by claiming “everyone knows” something that is not popular knowledge at all.

I’m so glad to have made it in time to watch my team lose today’s match. Thank god I didn’t miss it! 

In this example, the subject employs verbal irony in the form of sarcasm by claiming to be “glad to have made it” to something that was unpleasant to witness. 

Thank god I have three exams this week…who needs sleep anyway? 

In this example, the subject employs verbal irony in the form of sarcasm by saying “who needs sleep anyway?”—when, in fact, most people need sleep to function well. 

Yes, she’s a very kind person, apart from the fact that she wants everyone around her dead. 

In this example, the subject employs verbal irony in the form of sarcasm by suggesting that it is still possible to be a “kind person” if you want everyone around you dead. Clearly, the speaker means the opposite of what they’re saying. 

Nir looked at the very small piece of chocolate his sister was offering him and said, “Wow, that’s generous of you.” 

In this example, the subject (Nir) employs verbal irony in the form of sarcasm when he claims that his sister is “generous,” when she has in fact been stingy by offering him a very small piece of chocolate. 

I would kill someone if it meant that I could go to Ed Sheeran’s concert next week. 

In this sentence, verbal irony is employed in the form of overstatement—as the speaker exaggerates what they would be willing to do in order to go to Ed Sheeran’s concert. 

I wanted to stab my eyes while watching that movie, it was so terrible. 

In this sentence, verbal irony is again employed in the form of overstatement—as the speaker exaggerates what watching a terrible movie made them feel like doing. 

Today’s weather is the best weather Mumbai city has ever experienced. 

In this sentence, verbal irony is employed in the form of overstatement—as the speaker exaggerates how good the weather is. 

This view is the single most beautiful view in the world, and that’s a fact. 

In this sentence, verbal irony is employed in the form of overstatement—as the speaker unrealistically exaggerates how beautiful the view is. 

I’m so hungry I could eat an entire field of rice. 

In this sentence, verbal irony is employed in the form of overstatement—as the speaker exaggerates how much they could realistically eat. 

When Maya saw Latika’s new earrings, she said, “oh my god, those diamonds are the size of spaceships!”

In this sentence, verbal irony is employed in the form of overstatement—as the subject (Maya) exaggerates how big Latika’s diamond earrings actually are. 

The mall’s new ice skating rink was so big and empty that Mishika said it looked like a white desert. 

In this sentence, verbal irony is employed in the form of overstatement—as Mishika exaggerates the big and empty nature of the ice skating rink by comparing it to a desert. 

The circumference of Dia’s wrists and ankles are the same as the circumference of an easily broken twig. 

In this sentence, verbal irony is employed in the form of overstatement—as the speaker exaggerates how skinny and fragile Dia is by comparing her wrists and ankles to twigs. 

My father tells me that he will love me even after he dies. 

In this sentence, verbal irony is employed in the form of overstatement—as the subject (father) exaggerates how long his love for his daughter will last. 

“I could eat this every day of my life for eternity,” Kiara said while eating a bowl of rasam. 

In this sentence, verbal irony is employed in the form of overstatement—as the subject (Kiara) exaggerates how often she could eat rasam without getting bored of it. 

When Rhea showed her results to her father, he said it was “not too good”—even though she had failed the paper. 

In this sentence, verbal irony is employed in the form of understatement—as the subject (Rhea’s father) downplays how terrible Rhea’s results actually were. 

When Shreya asked Hritik how he was doing at his grandmother’s funeral, he said, “I’ve been better.” 

In this sentence, verbal irony is employed in the form of understatement—as the subject (Hritik) downplays how terrible he feels at his grandmother’s funeral. 

Kolkata is not the worst city in the world. 

This sentence is a litote (which is a type of understatement in which something is suggested by contradicting something that is contrary to it). Thus, this sentence makes use of verbal irony by alluding to the fact that Kolkata is a pretty good city, while saying something that understates this fact. 

Mahima doesn’t have the best sense of humour in the world. 

Here, again, verbal irony is employed in the form of a litote—as the speaker downplays how terrible Mahima’s sense of humour is. 

When Riya won a very competitive scholarship to study in Japan, she modestly told everyone that it was “not a big deal.” 

Here, again, verbal irony is employed in the form of a litote—as the speaker understates her achievement by contradicting the fact that it is a “big deal.” 

When Bhavesh woke up in the morning to find the entire road flooded, he said, “Looks like it was raining a bit last night.” 

In this sentence, verbal irony is employed in the form of understatement—as the subject (Bhavesh) understates how bad the previous night’s storm was. 

When asked to describe Disneyland to her younger sister, Fatima just said that there was a castle.

In this sentence, verbal irony is employed in the form of understatement—as the subject (Fatima) understates what sort of sights exist inside of Disneyland. 

I wouldn’t recommend jumping into that lake. It’s nearly frozen at this time of the year. 

In this sentence, verbal irony is employed in the form of understatement—as the subject understates how bad of an idea it would be to jump into the freezing lake. 

Jeh pointed at the tiger and said, “That’s a cute cat.” 

In this sentence, verbal irony is employed in the form of understatement—as the subject (Jeh) calls a tiger a “cat.” 

Mount Everest is pretty big. 

In this sentence, verbal irony is employed in the form of understatement—since Mount Everest is the earth’s highest mountain above sea level, and a lot bigger than just “pretty big.” 

What is a Pronoun Explained for Beginners?

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what is a pronoun explained for beginners

A pronoun is a word that replaces a noun in a sentence to avoid repetition and make communication more efficient. Pronouns are used to refer to a person, place, thing, or idea without repeating the noun. They help in constructing sentences that are easier to understand and provide context and clarity to the message. Types … Read more

41+ Compound Complex Sentence Examples: What, How,When,Where To Use,Structure,Several Facts

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In this article, we will learn about compound complex sentences. We will be getting to know how, when and where the compound complex sentences are used. With the list of compound complex sentence examples we will understand their structure as well.

A compound complex sentence is the one that must have at least two main clauses (independent clauses) connected by a coordinating conjunction and at least one subordinate clause (dependent clause) connected by a subordinating conjunction. In all, a compound complex sentence must have at least three clauses.

Go through the following 41+ examples of compound complex sentence to get a better idea.

Compound Complex Sentences examples with detailed explanations

Now we shall look into each example and analyze them in detail.

1. Till he completes his college, he will live in India, but later he will go abroad.

Main Clause: He will live in India

Main Clause: Later he will go abroad

Subordinate Clause: Till he completes his college

Coordinating Conjunction: But

Subordinating Conjunction: Till

2. Kate was sitting on the bed, while she was studying in her room, and then she fell asleep.

Main Clause: Kate was sitting on the bed

Main Clause: Then she fell asleep

Subordinate Clause: While she was studying in her room

Coordinating Conjunction: And

Subordinating Conjunction: While

3. I completed my work, but I am very tired to go shopping because the day was very hectic.

Main Clause: I completed my work

Main Clause: I am very tired to go shopping

Subordinate Clause: Because the day was very hectic

Coordinating Conjunction: But

Subordinating Conjunction: Because

4. Sanya likes horror movies because they are quite interesting, but she is scared of watching them.

Main Clause: Sanya likes horror movies

Main Clause: She is scared of watching them

Subordinate Clause: Because they are quite interesting

Coordinating Conjunction: But

Subordinating Conjunction: Because

5. When I was small, my parents wanted me to learn swimming, but I was not interested.

Main Clause: My parents wanted me to learn swimming

Main Clause: I was not interested

Subordinate Clause: When I was small

Coordinating Conjunction: But

Subordinating Conjunction: When

6. Before I reached the station, they arrived, and so we came early.

Main Clause: They arrived

Main Clause: We came early

Subordinate Clause: Before I reached the station

Coordinating Conjunction: And

Subordinating Conjunction: Before

7. Because she learned well, she cleared the entrance exam and was able to get admission in the college.

Main Clause: She cleared the entrance exam

Main Clause: Was able to get admission in the college

Subordinate Clause: Because she learned well

Coordinating Conjunction: And

Subordinating Conjunction: Because

8. When I finished my class, my mother came and we went home together.

Main Clause: My mother came

Main Clause: We went home together

Subordinate Clause: When I finished my class

Coordinating Conjunction: And

Subordinating Conjunction: When

9. My sister wants to eat ice creams because she loves them, but my mother does not allow her to eat.

Main Clause: My sister wants to eat ice creams

Main Clause: My mother does not allow her to eat

Subordinate Clause: Because she loves them

Coordinating Conjunction: But

Subordinating Conjunction: Because

10. When the bell rang, all the students ran to their places and waited for their teacher.

Main Clause: All the students ran to their places

Main Clause: Waited for their teacher

Subordinate Clause: When the bell rang

Coordinating Conjunction: And

Subordinating Conjunction: When

11. She is the girl, who came late, and missed the school bus.

Main Clause: She is the girl

Main Clause: Missed the school bus

Subordinate Clause: Who came late

Coordinating Conjunction: And

Subordinating Conjunction: Who

12. We went to their house, but we could not meet them because they had gone somewhere out.

Main Clause: We went to their house

Main Clause: We could not meet them

Subordinate Clause: Because they had gone somewhere out

Coordinating Conjunction: But

Subordinating Conjunction: Because

13. Even though she had a long day, Riya had to complete the project and so she worked over time.

Main Clause: Riya had to complete the project

Main Clause: She worked over time

Subordinate Clause: Even though she had a long day

Coordinating Conjunction: And so

Subordinating Conjunction: Even though

14. After we returned from the vacation, school was reopened and I was happy about meeting my friends.

Main Clause: School was reopened

Main Clause: I was happy about meeting my friends

Subordinate Clause: After we returned from the vacation

Coordinating Conjunction: And

Subordinating Conjunction: After

15. I went to the University in order to meet my teacher, but he was on leave.

Main Clause: I went to the University

Main Clause: He was on leave

Subordinate Clause: In order to meet my teacher

Coordinating Conjunction: But

Subordinating Conjunction: In order

16.  My mother takes home tuition every evening to the kids who live in the neighborhood for she has her household chores till the afternoon.

Main Clause: My mother takes home tuition every evening to the kids

Main Clause: She has her household chores till the afternoon

Subordinate Clause: Who live in the neighborhood

Coordinating Conjunction: For

Subordinating Conjunction: Who

17. Although the target was high, we achieved it and so we got our incentives.

Main Clause: We achieved it

Main Clause: We got our incentives

Subordinate Clause: Although the target was high

Coordinating Conjunction: And so

Subordinating Conjunction: Although

18. We were in the railway station when the train arrived and we boarded the train.

Main Clause: We were in the railway station

Main Clause: We boarded the train

Subordinate Clause: When the train arrived

Coordinating Conjunction: And

Subordinating Conjunction: When

19. If he wants to come to come to the trip, he needs to pay the money or he will not be allowed.

Main Clause: He needs to pay the money

Main Clause: He will not be allowed

Subordinate Clause: If he wants to come to come to the trip

Coordinating Conjunction: Or

Subordinating Conjunction: If

20. I got a new bag because my old one was damaged and I could not use it anymore.

Main Clause: I got a new bag

Main Clause: I could not use it anymore

Subordinate Clause: Because my old one was damaged

Coordinating Conjunction: And

Subordinating Conjunction: Because

21. When we won the match, all of us were happy and we got selected to the finals.

Main Clause: All of us were happy

Main Clause: We got selected to the finals

Subordinate Clause: When we won the match

Coordinating Conjunction: And

Subordinating Conjunction: When

22. The clock stopped ticking because the battery was dead and so I replaced it.

Main Clause: The clock stopped ticking

Main Clause: I replaced it

Subordinate Clause: Because the battery was dead

Coordinating Conjunction: And so

Subordinating Conjunction: Because

23. Because the time was over, we weren’t able to complete our performance, yet we won the competition.

Main Clause: We weren’t able to complete our performance

Main Clause: We won the competition

Subordinate Clause: Because the time was over

Coordinating Conjunction: Yet

Subordinating Conjunction: Because

24. My daughter has not seen her uncle who lives in Canada but still she loves him.

Main Clause: My daughter has not seen her uncle

Main Clause: Still she loves him

Subordinate Clause: Who lives in Canada

Coordinating Conjunction: But

Subordinating Conjunction: Who

25. We built our new house atop the mountain because we wanted to wake up to a beautiful view and we wanted to stay away from the urban noises.

Main Clause: We built our new house atop the mountain

Main Clause: We wanted stay away from the urban noises

Subordinate Clause: Because we wanted to wake up to a beautiful view

Coordinating Conjunction: And

Subordinating Conjunction: Because

26. After my classes, I joined my family for dinner and then we went to watch a movie.

Main Clause: I joined my family for dinner

Main Clause: Then we went to watch a movie

Subordinate Clause: After my classes

Coordinating Conjunction: And

Subordinating Conjunction: After

27. I want to walk home from the office every evening because I need exercise but I don’t have the time.

Main Clause: I want to walk home from the office every evening

Main Clause: I don’t have the time

Subordinate Clause: Because I need exercise

Coordinating Conjunction: But

Subordinating Conjunction: Because

28. If I clear my bank exam, I will start my training and I will move to Coimbatore.

Main Clause: I will start my training

Main Clause: I will move to Coimbatore

Subordinate Clause: If I clear my bank exam

Coordinating Conjunction: And

Subordinating Conjunction: If

29. Young children need to drink adequate amounts of water because their metabolism is high and they can get dehydrated easily.

Main Clause: Young children need to drink adequate amounts of water

Main Clause: They can get dehydrated easily

Subordinate Clause: Because their metabolism is high

Coordinating Conjunction: And

Subordinating Conjunction: Because

30. Since last week, I am feeling very thirsty and I am consuming a lot of frozen foods.

Main Clause: I am feeling very thirsty

Main Clause: I am consuming a lot of frozen foods

Subordinate Clause: Since last week

Coordinating Conjunction: And

Subordinating Conjunction: Since

31. The suitcase was heavy because of the bronze statue and I had to take the help of my friend to load it into the car.

Main Clause: The suitcase was heavy

Main Clause: I had to take the help of my friend to load it into the car

Subordinate Clause: Because of the bronze statue

Coordinating Conjunction: And

Subordinating Conjunction: Because

32. For years now, our department has been winning accolades and the students have been placed in top tier companies because of the hard work of our teachers and researchers.

Main Clause: For years now, our department has been winning accolades

Main Clause: The students have been placed in top tier companies

Subordinate Clause: Because of the hard work of our teachers and researchers

Coordinating Conjunction: And

Subordinating Conjunction: Because

33. My father worked overnight because he had to complete his project and also had to present it the next day.

Main Clause: My father worked overnight

Main Clause: Also had to present it the next day

Subordinate Clause: Because he had to complete his project

Coordinating Conjunction: And

Subordinating Conjunction: Because

34. My sister worked harder this time since she wanted to be the topper and yes, she achieved what she wanted.

Main Clause: My sister worked harder this time

Main Clause: Yes, she achieved what she wanted

Subordinate Clause: Since she wanted to be the topper

Coordinating Conjunction: And

Subordinating Conjunction: Since

35. Tanya learnt to cook because she is going abroad and she loves to eat Indian food.

Main Clause: Tanya learnt to cook

Main Clause: She loves to eat Indian food

Subordinate Clause: Because she is going abroad

Coordinating Conjunction: And

Subordinating Conjunction: Because

36. Let me end this speech now because it is time to eat and you might all be feeling hungry.

Main Clause: Let me end this speech now

Main Clause: You might all be feeling hungry

Subordinate Clause: Because it is time to eat

Coordinating Conjunction: And

Subordinating Conjunction: Because

37. When the students joined college, they did not know that their teacher was an army veteran and he had saved many lives during his tenure in the army.

Main Clause: They did not know that their teacher was an army veteran

Main Clause: He had saved many lives during his tenure in the army

Subordinate Clause: When the students joined college

Coordinating Conjunction: And

Subordinating Conjunction: When

38. It was a pleasant surprise when I saw him and so, we went to have our dinner together.

Main Clause: It was a pleasant surprise

Main Clause: We went to have our dinner together

Subordinate Clause: When I saw him

Coordinating Conjunction: And so

Subordinating Conjunction: When

39. The kid fell down while she was playing and she started crying due to pain.

Main Clause: The kid fell down

Main Clause: She started crying

Subordinate Clause: While she was playing

Subordinate Clause: Due to pain

Coordinating Conjunction: And

Subordinating Conjunction: While, Due

40. Whoever wins the match, he will be given a cash prize of 50,000 USD and he will also be granted lifetime access to the elite club.

Main Clause: He will be given a cash prize of 50,000 USD

Main Clause: He will also be granted lifetime access to the elite club

Subordinate Clause: Whoever wins the match

Coordinating Conjunction: And

Subordinating Conjunction: Whoever

Frequently Asked Questions

When to use a compound complex sentence?

Compound Complex sentence is used when long detailed information or thought has to be conveyed.

Example: Even though we went early, we missed the bus and so we took a cab.

This compound complex sentence tells us detailed information about them missing their bus.

Why to use compound complex sentence?

Compound complex sentences are used because they give us answers to why, when, where and how as it contains more information.

Example: I woke up late in the morning because the alarm did not ring and so, I got late for the meeting.

Here, we get to know why the person got up late, where will he/she be late, when did the person wake and all such answers.

How to use compound complex sentence?

Compound complex sentence must have two or more independent clauses connected by a coordinating conjunction and one or more related dependent clauses joined by subordinating conjunction.

Example: We were are all playing and having fun in the class while we heard that thundering sound.

Here, ‘we were all playing’ and ‘having fun in the class’ are 2 independent clauses linked by ‘and’. ‘While we heard that thundering sound’ is the related dependent clause joined by conjunction ‘while’.

Compound Complex Sentence Structure

Independent Clause + Coordinating Conjunction + Independent Clause + Subordinating Conjunction + Dependant Clause.

This is the basic structure. However the position of the clauses and the number of clauses can vary.

Example: She studies well and also is good at craft work, but is a little naughty because she is pampered a lot.