A simple sentence can be converted to a complex sentence by expanding a word or phrase into a subordinate clause. This subordinate clause can be a noun clause, an adjective clause or an adverb clause.

Study the following example.

He proved his innocence.

This simple sentence can be converted into a complex sentence by expanding the noun ‘his innocence’ into a noun clause.

He proved that he was innocent.

Exercise

Convert the following simple sentences into complex sentences.

1. I saw a wounded dog.
2. The girl sitting next to Peter is his sister.
3. I was the first to reach the spot.
4. He liked his former place.
5. We need a house to live in.
6. Your father is the man to solve this problem.
7. He bought his uncle’s house.

Answers

1. I saw a dog that was wounded.
2. The girl who is sitting next to Peter is his sister.
3. I was the first who reached the spot.
4. He liked the place where he lived formerly.
5. We need a house where we can live in.
6. Your father is the man who can solve this problem.
7. He bought the house which belonged to his uncle.