Oraciones Complejas - Complex Sentences

Learning Objectives Identify the main clause and subordinate clause in a complex sentence. Define and recognize the function of a conjunction (nexo) like 'que'. Determine when to use the subjunctive mood in a subordinate clause based on the main clause's trigger (e.g., WEIRDO). Correctly conjugate regular and common irregular verbs in the present subjunctive. Construct their own complex sentences to express wishes, recommendations, and doubts. Differentiate between using the indicative and subjunctive moods in noun clauses. Ever feel like simple sentences just can't express your big ideas? 🤔 Let's learn how to build Spanish 'super sentences' to say exactly what you mean! This tutorial will teach you how to connect ideas using complex sent...

TermDefinitionExample Oración ComplejaA sentence that contains a main (independent) clause and at least one subordinate (dependent) clause.Yo quiero que tú vengas a la fiesta. (I want you to come to the party.) Cláusula Principal (Independent Clause)The part of the sentence that can stand alone and makes complete sense by itself.In 'Espero que estudies', the main clause is 'Espero' (I hope). Cláusula Subordinada (Dependent Clause)The part of the sentence that cannot stand alone and depends on the main clause for its meaning. It often begins with a 'nexo'.In 'Espero que estudies', the subordinate clause is 'que estudies' (that you study). Nexo (Conjunction)A linking word that connects the main clause to the subordinate clause. The most comm...

The Basic Structure of a Complex Sentence Cláusula Principal + Nexo ('que') + Cláusula Subordinada This is the fundamental pattern. The main clause expresses a complete thought, 'que' connects it, and the subordinate clause adds more information but cannot stand alone. The WEIRDO Rule for Subjunctive If the main clause expresses a WEIRDO concept, the verb in the subordinate clause must be in the subjunctive mood. WEIRDO stands for: **W**ishes (querer que), **E**motions (alegrarse de que), **I**mpersonal Expressions (es importante que), **R**ecommendations (recomendar que), **D**oubt/Denial (dudar que), **O**jalá (ojalá que). These 'trigger' phrases in the main clause force the verb in the subordinate clause into the subjunctive. The Subject...