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Periodic Sentence

Phonetics:

pɪəriˈɒdɪk

sentəns

Pronunciation:

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Mastering the Art of Periodic Sentences: A Comprehensive Guide

Comprehensive Definition, Description, Examples & Rules

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Definition of Periodic Sentence

Periodic sentence definition says It is a type of sentence that has a complex formation and a stylistic device. Moreover, the main idea or principle clause of the sentence is at the end. It has a single key idea which is usually incomplete until the end of the sentence.

So, periodic sentences include the main clause as the last part. It is a busy sentence, complex that writers want to put emphasis on in the end.

For instance,

Despite a lack of raw materials, harsh climatic conditions, and reduced power supply, the team continued.

Here, the main or independent clause is ” the team continued” at the end of the sentence.

Characteristics of Periodic Sentences

Periodic sentences have a different structure than normal sentences. They need dependent clauses, in the beginning, to create suspense and make an independent clause or main idea more important.

The periodic sentence uses different syntax or sentence formation which include:

Dependent clause 1 + Dependent clause 2+….. + independent clause.

Examples of Periodic Sentences

Let’s understand with periodic sentence example:

Everyday periodic sentence example:

After shopping for groceries, washing laundry, and walking the dog, I finally got time to relax.

If the quality is good and the price is reasonable, I might consider buying the bag for office use.

The beach, white sand, crystals, and local food, are a complete package for tourists.

Here, ” finally got time to relax”, ” buying the bag for office use” and ” complete package for tourists” are the main ideas at the end of their respective sentences.

Literary periodic sentence example

“To believe your own thoughts, to believe that what is true for you in your private heart is true for all men, that is genius.” By Ralph Waldo Emerson used in Self-Reliance.

“Unprovided with original learning, uninformed in the habits of thinking, unskilled in the arts of composition, I resolved — to write a book.” By Edward Gibbon used in Memoirs of My Life.

Benefits of Using Periodic Sentences

After Periodic sentence definition, here is the list of benefits by periodic sentences:

Periodic sentences are created to put emphasis on ideas, to develop shock, and to create suspense in a writing piece.
Compared to normal sentences, periodic sentences as writers can put up reasons, evidence, or examples before the main idea.
The dependent clause or supporting reasons, evidence for the main idea comes before the independent clause in the sentence.
The periodic sentence is used to keep readers’ attention by keeping the suspense till the end of the sentence.
It is easier for writers to use reasons to persuade readers than other complex sentences.

Tips for Crafting Effective Periodic Sentences

To write effective periodic sentences in English, there are a few tips you can use to ensure you write periodic sentences effectively:

Make sure the main clause is placed at the end.
The reasons used before the main clause should be connected well rather than disconnected from the independent clause.
Use periodic sentences only when needed to add suspense and grab readers’ attention. Otherwise complex sentences can be difficult for readers.
Do not use two periodic sentences consequently.
Make sure sentences flow in a smooth way and there is not any abrupt pause.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When writing complex English-like periodic sentences, here are common pitfalls to avoid:

Do not use too many fragments in a sentence. Sometimes we add too many reasons or dependent clauses before independent clauses that make sentences too long and difficult to read.
Make sure fragments and dependent clauses are well connected. Sometimes reasons look unclear and lack connection.
Do not include too many unnecessary periodic sentences in a paragraph.

Tips to improve or enhance writing periodic sentences

Here are some tips to ensure better periodic sentences:

Make sure you add a limited dependent clause in relevance to the independent clause.
Make sure an independent clause or main idea is connected with the reasons provided in the sentences.
Make sure you only use 2 to 3 dependent clauses to maintain readability and clarity.
Do not include too many ideas in a sentence.

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Key Takeaways

Periodic sentences are a type of sentence that uses a stylistic component to create suspense.
In this type of sentence, the main idea or independent clause is predicted at the end of the sentence.
Periodic sentences can be used in every writing or writing for a specific genre.
Periodic sentences can help grab readers’ attention by creating little suspense.
Periodic sentences must not have too many dependent clauses.
It is important to make sure ideas or dependent clauses are connected.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Are periodic sentences commonly used in everyday writing or more prevalent in specific genres?

Periodic sentences can be used for everyday writing as well as a specific genre. It depends on what is the purpose of writing for writers and what they want for their readers.

What are the key components of a well-constructed periodic sentence?

To create a well-structured periodic sentence, it must have one or two dependent clauses and one independent clause at the end of the sentence.

Are there any common mistakes to avoid when using periodic sentences?

Yes! Make sure you limit the dependent clause, you avoid creating disconnected reasons.

Can periodic sentences be used effectively in academic or technical writing?

Yes! Periodic Sentences are helpful and used in academic or technical writing.

How can I improve my writing by incorporating periodic sentences?

You can use periodic sentences in paragraphs or creative writing where you want to create a little suspense for readers.

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