10 Examples of Compound Sentences

When we start learning English as a beginner, understanding how to connect ideas within a sentence is important. One way we can do this is by using compound sentences. But the question is what exactly are they? Well, compound sentences are sentences that combine two independent clauses (two complete thoughts) using coordinating conjunctions.

We can remember the coordinating conjunctions as FANBOYS (for, and, nor, but, or, yet and so). However, we can form a compound sentence by using a semicolon instead of a coordinating conjunction. This structure helps us create more complex sentences, making our writing or speech sound smoother and more natural. Still, need more clarification on compound sentences? Read our complete lesson on Compound Sentences.

In this lesson, I’ll walk you through 10 clear examples of compound sentences in the different types of tenses that will help you understand how to use them in everyday conversations.

10 Examples of Compound Sentences with Mixed Verb Tenses

1. I finished my report last night, and I am reviewing it this morning.
2. She has been learning French for a year, but she still struggles with pronunciation.
3. They are practicing their lines, so they will be ready for the play tomorrow.
4. He saved a lot of money last year, and now he is planning a big vacation.
5. I will call you later; I have not had a chance to discuss this with you yet.
6. You have completed the first task, but you are still working on the second one.
7. She is cooking dinner, and her family will arrive soon to eat.
8. They have lived here for years; they are moving to a new city next month.
9. I missed the bus yesterday, so I am leaving early today to catch it on time.
10. He plans to start a new project, but he hasn’t finished the current one yet.

10 Examples of Compound Sentences in the Simple Present Tense

1. I enjoy reading newspapers, and my friend enjoys watching movies.
2. He studies every day, but he doesn’t always understand the material.
3. We go to the beach on weekends, or we stay home and relax.
4. She loves to cook, so she often prepares meals for her family.
5. They play soccer after school; they sometimes invite their classmates to join.
6. You can wait for the bus, or you can walk to the store.
7. He wants to learn French, but he doesn’t have enough time right now.
8. I write in my journal daily, yet I never share it with anyone.
9. My brother sings in a band, and he also plays the guitar.
10. We play football every day, but we decide to take a break now.

10 Examples of Compound Sentences in the Simple Past Tense

1. I went to the store, and I bought some fresh vegetables.
2. He studied all night, but he still didn’t pass the test.
3. We visited the museum, or we explored the nearby garden.
4. She called her friend, so they could plan a trip together.
5. They took notes in the class, and they made a presentation afterward.
6. You took the wrong bus, yet you managed to arrive on time.
7. He wanted to join the club; he missed the registration deadline.
8. I cleaned my room, and I organized my books on the shelf.
9. We went to the beach, or we could have stayed at home.
10. She finished her English class; she went outside to play with her friends.

10 Examples of Compound Sentences in the Present Continuous Tense

1. I am reading a book, and my sister is watching a movie.
2. He is working on his project; he is also thinking about his next vacation.
3. We are planning a surprise party, or we are considering a simple dinner instead.
4. She is cooking dinner, so we are setting the table.
5. They are studying for the test, and they are also practicing with flashcards.
6. You are learning to play the guitar, yet you are still hesitant to perform.
7. He is trying to finish his assignment, but he is constantly getting distracted.
8. I am listening to music, and I am sketching a new design.
9. We are discussing the project details; we are deciding on a new approach.
10. She is teaching her class, so her students are paying close attention.

10 Examples of Compound Sentences in the Present Perfect Tense

1. I have finished my homework, and I have also cleaned my room.
2. She has visited that museum before; she has never seen the new exhibit.
3. They have practiced all week, so they have improved their performance.
4. We have traveled to many countries, or we have stayed home and explored locally.
5. He has worked here for five years, and he has made many friends.
6. You have taken many online courses, yet you haven’t completed this one.
7. She has tried learning French, but she has found it challenging.
8. I have read that thriller story, so I have started a new one.
9. We have prepared all the materials, and we have arranged the venue.
10. They have lived in this city for a long time; they have never been to that museum.

Wrapping Up

Throughout this lesson, we explored 10 examples of compound sentences across various tenses, including the present simple, past simple, present continuous, present perfect, and mixed tenses.

As you start making your own compound sentences, remember to use coordinating conjunctions or semicolons to link your thoughts. This will make your language richer and more engaging.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a compound sentence?

A compound sentence is a sentence that combines two or more independent clauses (complete thoughts) using coordinating conjunctions such as and, but, or, nor, for, so, or yet. This structure allows you to connect related ideas and create more complex sentences.

How do I identify a compound sentence?

To identify a compound sentence, look for two independent clauses that can stand alone as separate sentences. Check for a coordinating conjunction that connects these clauses. For example, in the sentence “I wanted to go for a ride, but I forgot to bring the key.” In the sentence both “I wanted to go for a ride” and “I forgot to bring the key” are complete thoughts.

Can a compound sentence have different verb tenses?

Yes! A compound sentence can consist of independent clauses with different verb tenses. For example, “I finished my homework yesterday, and I am chatting with my friend now” combines the past simple tense with the present continuous tense. Mixing tenses can help convey complex ideas and relationships between actions.

Azizul Hakim

Azizul Hakim is the founder & CEO of englishfinders.com. He is a passionate writer, English instructor, and content creator. He has completed his graduation and post-graduation in English language and literature.