Complex sentence.

The complex sentence is a polypredicative construction built up on the principle of subordination.

It is derived from two or more sentences one of which performs the role of a matrix in relation to the others, the insert sentences. The matrix function of the corresponding base sentence may be more rigorously and less rigorously pronounced, depending on the type of subordinative connection realized.

When joined into one complex sentence, the matrix base sentence becomes the principle clause of it and the insert sentences, its subordinate clauses.

The subordinate clause is joined to the principle clause either by a subordinative connector (subordinator), or, with some types of clauses, asyndetically. The functional character of the subordinative connector is so explicit that even in traditional grammatical descriptions of complex sentences this connector was approached as a transformer of independent sentence into a subordinate clause.

Eg.:

Moyra left the room.  - ( I remember quite well) that Moyra left the room. - (He went on with his story) after Moyra left the room. - ( Fred remained in his place) though Moyra left the room. - ( The party was spoilt) because Moyra left the room. - ( It was a surprise to us all) that Moyra left the room...