Combining Sentences – Examples, Exercises with Answers

 

 

Combining Sentences- Sentence Synthesis by Joining two sentences – Exercises with Answers

 

Introduction

The process of combining sentences or synthesis, ensures that the writers are able to craft sentences that have a natural flow to them and are meaningful. Sentence merging is vital to transform and make your writing cohesive be it whether you are writing an essay, story or article. Imagine reading a story in your English books where the sentences jump and are short and choppy. The story feels broken as if the author was trying to put a puzzle together without any clear picture. Now, consider the same story with sentences that are interconnected and seamlessly woven together and are coherent- it’s smoother, flows better, engaging and is easy to follow. This is the power that synthesis holds in English grammar. It has the ability to make or break the entire sentence’s meaning and structure.

In this article, we will be delving into the true definition of synthesis, ways of combining sentences, tips, sample examples and some sample questions to help you prepare for the topic of synthesis or combining sentences for various state board classes.

 

Definition

Synthesis can be referred to as combining multiple simple sentences- simple sentences, compound sentences and complex sentences, into one coherent and meaningful sentence. The aim of using techniques of sentence integration is to maintain the essence and understanding of the original sentences, while at the same time producing a more fluid and coherent sentence. Merger of sentences not only refines one’s writing but also, improves readability, comprehension and ensures a logical flow between ideas in writing. 

 

For example, 

1. Simple Sentences: The rain stopped. We went for a walk.

Combined: When the rain stopped, we went for a walk.

2. Simple Sentences: He is talented. He won the competition.

Combined: Being talented, he won the competition.

 

In order to understand the above examples and synthesis better, it is vital that we understand what are the different types of sentences. Sentences are largely classified into three types namely, simple, compound and complex. 

 

1. Simple Sentences 

A simple sentence consists of one independent clause, i.e. it is made up of just one subject and often only a single verb. A simple sentence is a simple statement about casual day-to-day matters, facts, information about something and more.

 

Example, 

• The cat sleeps.

 

This sentence is a simple sentence since it only talks about one thing and has only one independent clause, the cat sleeping. It is short and clear.

 

2. Compound Sentences 

A compound sentence combines two simple sentences (independent clauses) together with a conjunction like ‘and’, ‘but’,’or’, ‘so’. Each part of the sentence can be a completely meaningful sentence on its own.

 

Example, 

• The sun set behind the mountains, and the stars appeared in the sky.

 

This compound sentence has two simple sentences,  “The sun set behind the mountains” and “the stars appeared in the sky.” They are connected by the conjunction “and,” making the sentence more complex than a simple sentence one but still with clear meaning.

 

3. Complex Sentences 

A complex sentence consists of one independent clause and at least one dependent clause to make a sentence combination. It is often used when you need to provide more detail and information. The dependent clause provides additional information but cannot stand alone as a complete meaningful sentence.

 

Example, 

• The cat sleeps when it feels tired. 

 

In this sentence, “The cat sleeps” is an independent clause as it can stand alone as a complete sentence. On the other hand, “when it feels tired” is a dependent clause because it adds extra information and cannot be used alone. The dependent clause relies on the independent clause to make sense.

 

Sentence Joining Techniques 

 

Here is a list of the different ways of sentence synthesis-

1. Using Infinitives 

The infinitive is a to + verb form that can be used as a noun, adjective, or adverb, like to go or to buy. It helps you show the reason or purpose for an action.

 

Example, 

• I have a worksheet. I must discuss it.
• I have a worksheet to discuss.

 

The infinitive “to discuss” explains the purpose of having the worksheet, linking the two actions and making the sentence more concise.

• The almirah is too heavy. It cannot be lifted.
• The almirah is too heavy to be lifted.

 

The infinitive “to be lifted” shows the purpose or result of the almirah being too heavy, connecting the heaviness with the inability to lift it in one sentence.

 

2. Using Noun or a Phrase in Apposition 

When we use two noun phrases next to each other in a clause, and they refer to the same person or thing, we call this apposition. Using apposition can make sentences more concise by combining them into one.

 

Example, 

• My brother is an engineer. He works at a software company.
• My brother, an engineer, works at a software company. 

 

The phrase “an engineer” renames “my brother” and combines the two sentences into one.

• The Taj Mahal is a beautiful monument. It is located in Agra.
• The Taj Mahal, a beautiful monument, is located in Agra.

 

Here, “a beautiful monument” is in apposition to “The Taj Mahal,” combining the two sentences. 

3. Using Participles 

 

A participle is a verb that is changed into an -ing form. The participle can be used to form sentences smoothly by combining them into one. However, it is only possible when the sentences have the same subject, since combining two sentences using participles with different subjects would make the final sentences illogical. 

 

Example, 

• I had read the book.  I returned it to the library.  
• Having read the book, I returned it to the library.  

 

The participle “Having read” links the two actions smoothly, showing that reading the book happened first, and the subject stays the same throughout.

• He opened the door. He went out.  
• Opening the door, he went out.

 

“Opening” connects the actions of opening the door and going out, with the subject “he” being the same in both parts of the sentence.

 

4. Using Preposition with a noun or a gerund 

Prepositions can be combined with a noun or a gerund (verb + -ing) to show the relationship between actions or events. This method helps in linking sentences and maintaining their original meaning.

 

Example, 

• She was praised for her hard work. She achieved great results.
• She was praised for achieving great results.

 

The prepositional phrase “for achieving” connects the action of achieving results with being praised.

 

• He failed many times. He was a wise man. 
• In spite of failing many times, he was a wise man.

5. Using Nominative Absolute Construction

 

A nominative absolute construction is a phrase that includes a noun or pronoun followed by a participle or adjective. It helps combine two sentences that have different subjects.

 

Example, 

• The rain had stopped. We went out for a walk
• The rain had stopped, so we went out for a walk.

 

The phrase “The rain having stopped” connects the stopping of rain with going out for a walk.

• The project was completed. The team celebrated their success.
• When the project was completed, the team celebrated their success.

 

“When the project completed” is the nominative absolute that links the completion with the celebration.

 

6. Using Adverb or Adverbial Phrase 

 

An adverb or an adverbial phrase can change a verb, adjective, or another adverb to show how, when, where, or why an action takes place. 

 

Example, 

• She studied hard. She passed the exam.
• She studied hard and passed the exam.

 

The adverb “hard” describes how she studied, connecting the studying and passing of the exam.

 

• He will win the election. It is certain.
• He will certainly win the election.

 

The adverb “certainly” describes the verb “win” to show that the outcome is sure, combining the two original sentences into one clear sentence.

 

7. Using Conjunctions 

 

Combining two or more sentences by adding conjunctions  like and, but, or, because, etc., to show a connection between ideas is one of the most common ways of using synthesis. This makes the sentence flow better and avoids repetition.

 

Example, 

• She was tired. She went to sleep.
• She was tired, so she went to sleep.

 

The conjunction “so” is used to show the relationship between the two sentences. It connects the cause (she was tired) to the effect (she went to sleep)

• I want coffee. I want tea.
• I want coffee or tea.

 

The conjunction “or” is used to show a choice between the two options. By combining the sentences, it avoids repetition and clearly presents the alternatives.

 

Rules for Combining Sentences

 

In order to ensure proper combination of sentences, keep in mind the following rules when combining simple, complex or compound sentences to one integrated sentence:-

 

1. Include All Information: Ensure your sentence keeps all details from the original sentence(s). Don’t leave out any important points. Example: “He missed the train, so he was late for the meeting” should transform to “He was late for the meeting because he missed the train.”
2. Use Original Words as Much as Possible: Keep most words from the original sentence in your answer.
3. Maintain Original Tenses: Match the tenses in the original sentence, unless converting from direct to reported speech and be mindful of consistency in using tense. Example: “She will start the project if she gets approval” should not be changed to “She started the project if she got approval.”
4. Strong Grammar Foundation: Ensure your sentences follow grammar rules like subject-verb agreement and correct use of tenses. Example: “The dogs chase the cat” needs to be transformed correctly to “The cat is chased by the dogs.”
5. Order of Clauses: Place clauses in the correct order based on the meaning and type of connector used. 

For example, ‘due to’ should be followed by the cause, and ‘if’ should start with the condition.

6. Use Sentence Connectors Correctly: Know common connectors like FANBOYS (for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so) and relative pronouns (who, whom, which). Use the connectors that match the type of relationship between sentences, such as cause and effect. Example: “Due to heavy rain, the event was canceled” should remain in that order when rewritten as “The event was canceled due to heavy rain.”
7. Check for Accuracy: Ensure subject-verb agreement, correct punctuation, and that the sentence’s meaning matches the original.

 

Sentence Joining Tips

 

Once all the rules are appropriately applied when changing the sentences, there might still be some room for improvement which can be bridged with the following tips to ensure 100% accuracy:-

 

1. Understand the Original Sentence: Understand the meaning of the sentence before rewriting it.
2. Check Your Tenses: Even though it is one of the primary rules of synthesis, you should once again check your tenses  to stay consistent. Example: “He plays the guitar well” should not become “He played the guitar well” unless specified to do so in the question.
3. Use Grammar Rules as Tools: While understanding the grammar rules are vital it is also important to Familiarize yourself with verb transformations regularly to ensure accuracy when answering in the exam. 
4. Read Answers Aloud: Check for errors by reading out the answer loud. For Example: If your sentence is “Since he studied hard, he passed,” read it to check for smooth flow and any errors in the sentence.
5. Give Your Brain a Break: Take appropriate breaks, relax and double-check the sentences if needed or stuck on any question with fresh eyes.

 

Sample Questions 

Combine the following simple sentences into one simple sentence each:

 

1. Nalanda was an ancient town. It was famous for literature and religious studies.
2. There are safety rules. We must follow them.
3. ‘Animals in Prison’ is a well-known extract from ‘An Autobiography’.
4. Her name is Sujata Bhatt. She is a good poet.
5. He stood first. He worked hard.
6. Dipu has a big family. He must provide for them.
7. The wind stopped. The ship moved on.
8. The power supply is irregular. That is usual.
9. He built a temple. It had many rooms. It had a large veranda. It was near the Ganga.
10. Punit lives in Bangalore. He is an engineer.

 

Answers: 

1. Nalanda, an ancient town, was famous for literature and religious studies.
2. We must follow the safety rules.
3. “Animals in Prison” is a well-known extract from “An Autobiography.”
4. Sujata Bhatt, a good poet, is her name.
5. He stood first because he worked hard.
6. Dipu, who has a big family, must provide for them.
7. The wind stopped, and the ship moved on.
8. The power supply being irregular is usual.
9. He built a temple near the Ganga, which had many rooms and a large veranda.
10. Punit, an engineer, lives in Bangalore.

 

Practice questions (20 MCQ) (40 normal) 

 

Exercise- 1 Multiple-Choice Questions 

 

1. Which of the following is an example of synthesis using an infinitive?

(A) He is tired, so he went to sleep.

(B) He went to sleep because he was tired.

(C) He went to sleep to rest.

(D) He rested after going to sleep.

 

2. What is the correct way to combine the following sentences using a participle?

“She finished the assignment. She went to bed.”

(A) She finished the assignment, going to bed.

(B) Having finished the assignment, she went to bed.

(C) She went to bed, having finished the assignment.

(D) She finished the assignment and went to bed.

 

3. Which of the following sentences correctly uses a gerund in synthesis?

“He avoided running late. He took an early train.”

(A) He took an early train to avoid running late.

(B) He took an early train and avoiding running late.

(C) Avoiding running late, he took an early train.

(D) He took an early train for avoid running late.

 

4. Which of the following uses a noun in apposition to combine the sentences?

“The book was exciting. It was written by Mark Twain.”

(A) The book written by Mark Twain was exciting.

(B) The exciting book written by Mark Twain was.

(C) The book, Mark Twain’s work, was exciting.

(D) The exciting book was Mark Twain’s work.

 

5. Which sentence uses a preposition to combine the sentences?

“She was sad. She left early.”

(A) Sad about leaving early, she left.

(B) She left early, in sadness.

(C) She, in sadness, left early.

(D) She left early because she was sad.

 

6. Which sentence correctly uses an adverbial phrase in synthesis?

“He was angry. He shouted loudly.”

(A) He angrily shouted.

(B) He shouted loudly, being angry.

(C) Angrily, he shouted loudly.

(D) He was angry and shouted loudly.

 

7. How can you combine these two sentences using a nominative absolute construction?

“The car was parked. The engine was still running.”

(A) The car was parked with the engine still running.

(B) The engine running, the car was parked.

(C) The car, having parked, was still running.

(D) The car was parked, the engine running, still ran.

 

8. What is the correct way to combine the following sentences using a relative clause?

“The movie was interesting. It was directed by Steven Spielberg.”

(A) The movie which was directed by Steven Spielberg was interesting.

(B) The movie directed by Steven Spielberg was interesting.

(C) The interesting movie was directed by Steven Spielberg.

(D) The movie, which was interesting, was directed by Steven Spielberg.

 

9. How would you combine these sentences with the use of an infinitive?

“He wants to succeed. He works very hard.”

(A) He works very hard because he wants to succeed.

(B) He works hard to succeed.

(C) He works hard, he wants to succeed.

(D) He wants to succeed by working hard.

 

10. Which sentence shows correct synthesis using a participle?

“She was crying. She called for help.“

(A) Crying, she called for help.

(B) Crying for help, she called.

(C) She called for help crying.

(D) She cried, calling for help.

 

11. Which of the following combines the sentences into a simple sentence using a preposition + noun?

“She apologized. She was late.”

(A) She apologized for being late.

(B) She apologized, being late.

(C) She apologized to being late.

(D) She apologized, for being late.

 

12. Which of the following combines the sentences into a compound sentence using a coordinating conjunction?

“He studied all night. He passed the exam.”

(A) He studied all night, for he passed the exam.

(B) He studied all night, but he passed the exam.

(C) He studied all night, and he passed the exam.

(D) He studied all night, so he passed the exam.

 

13. Which of the following combines the sentences into a complex sentence using a conditional clause?

“I will come. You invite me.”

(A) I will come unless you invite me.

(B) I will come if you invite me.

(C) I will come when you invite me.

(D) I will come while you invite me.

 

14. Which of the following combines the sentences into a simple sentence using a nominative absolute?

“The rain stopped. The children went outside.”

(A) The rain having stopped, the children went outside.

(B) The rain stopped, and the children went outside.

(C) The children went outside because the rain stopped.

(D) The rain stopped, so the children went outside.

 

15. Which of the following combines the sentences into a complex sentence using an adverbial clause of purpose?

“He ran fast. He wanted to catch the bus.”

(A) He ran fast because he wanted to catch the bus.

(B) He ran fast to catch the bus.

(C) He ran fast so that he wanted to catch the bus.

(D) He ran fast because of catching the bus.

 

16. Which of the following combines the sentences into a simple sentence using a prepositional phrase?

“She got angry. She heard the news.”

(A) She got angry from hearing the news.

(B) She got angry hearing the news.

(C) She got angry because of hearing the news.

(D) She got angry at hearing the news.

 

17. Which of the following combines the sentences into a compound sentence using an adverbial conjunction?

“She was late. She had an important meeting.”

(A) She was late, because she had an important meeting.

(B) She was late, so she had an important meeting.

(C) She was late, but she had an important meeting.

(D) She was late, for she had an important meeting.

 

18. Which of the following combines the sentences into a complex sentence using an adverbial clause of condition?

“You can go out. You finish your homework.”

(A) You can go out once you finish your homework.

(B) You can go out because you finish your homework.

(C) You can go out when you finish your homework.

(D) You can go out if you finish your homework.

 

19. Which of the following combines the sentences into a simple sentence using a conjunction?

“He is a doctor. He works in a hospital.”

(A) He is a doctor who works in a hospital.

(B) He works in a hospital, and he is a doctor.

(C) He is a doctor because he works in a hospital.

(D) He is a doctor, so he works in a hospital.

 

20. Which of the following combines the sentences into a compound sentence using a coordinating conjunction?

“She studied well. She scored high marks.”

(A) She studied well and scored high marks.

(B) She studied well, yet she scored high marks.

(C) She studied well, but she scored high marks.

(D) She studied well, for she scored high marks.

 

Answers: 

1. (C) He went to sleep to rest.
2. (B) Having finished the assignment, she went to bed.
3. (A) He took an early train to avoid running late.
4. (B) The exciting book written by Mark Twain was.
5. (A) Sad about leaving early, she left.
6. (C) Angrily, he shouted loudly.
7. (B) The engine running, the car was parked.
8. (B) The movie directed by Steven Spielberg was interesting.
9. (B) He works hard to succeed.
10. (A) Crying, she called for help.
11. (A) She apologized for being late.

12. (C) He studied all night, and he passed the exam.
13. (B) I will come if you invite me.
14. (A) The rain having stopped, the children went outside.
15. (B) He ran fast to catch the bus.
16. (D) She got angry at hearing the news.
17. (D) She was late, for she had an important meeting.
18. (D) You can go out if you finish your homework.

19. (A) He is a doctor who works in a hospital.
20. (A) She studied well and scored high marks.

 

Exercise- 2

Combine the following sets of sentences into one compound sentence each: 

1. Dasa was a fool. He was lazy. 
2. The Magadh Research Institute is young. It can be molded to the need of the age. 
3. Liberty is not a personal affair. It is a social contract. 
4. I looked everywhere. There was no mouse. 
5. Roop Singh’s uniform was always ironed. His shoes were gleaming black. 
6. Hurry up. You will be late. 
7. Do not eat Gutkha. You will be punished. 
8. He was all right. He was tired. 
9. The sun rose. The fog disappeared. The boys came out to play. 
10. I earned a lot. I saved nothing. 
11. You can eat fish. You can eat mutton. 
12. He can write English. He can speak English. 
13. He was poor. He was happy. 
14. John passed the test. Hanif also passed the test. 
15. He is intelligent. He is confused. 
16. He told lies. He was punished. 
17. Roop Singh was honest. Kedia insulted him. 
18. It is dark. I will carry a torch 
19. We must not walk in the middle of the road. It would be fatal. 
20. Hurry up. You will miss the train.

 

Answers:

1. Dasa was a fool, and he was lazy.
2. The Magadh Research Institute is young, but it can be molded to the needs of the age.
3. Liberty is not a personal affair; it is a social contract.
4. I looked everywhere, but there was no mouse.
5. Roop Singh’s uniform was always ironed, and his shoes were gleaming black.
6. Hurry up, or you will be late.
7. Do not eat Gutkha, or you will be punished.
8. He was all right, but he was tired.
9. The sun rose, and the fog disappeared, so the boys came out to play.
10. I earned a lot, but I saved nothing.
11. You can eat fish or mutton.
12. He can write English, and he can speak English.
13. He was poor, but he was happy.
14. John passed the test, and Hanif also passed the test.
15. He is intelligent, but he is confused.
16. He told lies, and he was punished.
17. Roop Singh was honest, but Kedia insulted him.
18. It is dark, so I will carry a torch.
19. We must not walk in the middle of the road, for it would be fatal.
20. Hurry up, or you will miss the train.

 

Exercise- 3

Combine the following simple sentences into Simple, Compound or Complex Sentence each: 

1. He was very old. He could not take part in the race. 
2. Dhoni played a wonderful innings. He won the Asia Cup. 
3. I missed the bus. I was late. 
4. Ajeet has bought a flat. It is very expensive. 
5. You can take tea. You can take coffee. 
6. Do not waste time. Wash your hands. Begin your studies. 
7. Where is the zoo? Can you tell me?
8. I got up early. I rushed to the airport to receive my parents. 
9. I felt tired. I went to bed. 
10. He is very tired. He cannot walk any further. 
11. I went home. I talked to my parents. 
12. Chabbi is beautiful. Mamta is equally beautiful. 
13. Tell me. Is Nikhat sitting there? 
14. Can you tell me? Whom does Safdar love? 
15. She has got a job. I do not know how.
16. She was studying hard. She wanted to pass the exam.
17. The cat is on the roof. The dog is in the garden.
18. I went to the store. I forgot to buy milk.
19. He plays the piano. He also plays the guitar.
20. The rain started. I took an umbrella.

 

Answers: 

1. He was very old, so he could not take part in the race. (Compound)
2. Dhoni played a wonderful innings and won the Asia Cup. (Compound)
3. I missed the bus, so I was late. (Compound)
4. Ajeet has bought a flat, and it is very expensive. (Compound)
5. You can take tea or coffee. (Simple)
6. Do not waste time; wash your hands and begin your studies. (Compound)
7. Where is the zoo? Can you tell me? (Complex)
8. I got up early and rushed to the airport to receive my parents. (Compound)
9. I felt tired, so I went to bed. (Compound)
10. He is very tired, so he cannot walk any further. (Compound)
11. I went home, and I talked to my parents. (Compound)
12. Chabbi is beautiful, and Mamta is equally beautiful. (Compound)
13. Tell me, is Nikhat sitting there? (Complex)
14. Can you tell me whom Safdar loves? (Complex)
15. She has got a job, but I do not know how. (Compound)
16. She was studying hard because she wanted to pass the exam. (Complex)
17. The cat is on the roof, and the dog is in the garden. (Compound)
18. I went to the store, but I forgot to buy milk. (Compound)
19. He plays the piano, and he also plays the guitar. (Compound)
20. The rain started, so I took an umbrella. (Compound)

 

Conclusion

Combining Sentences or Synthesis is a valuable tool in English grammar that enhances and fosters both writing and communication. By understanding its definitions, types, and examples, you can now effectively combine a variety of sentences, maintaining an engaging and logical flow between sentences. With practice, you can make your writing more structured and impactful. Start practicing with the examples and questions provided, and soon, you will be able to master the art of synthesis and use them in your exams as well.