INTRODUCTION

Language, as the cornerstone of human communication, possesses a remarkable ability to

convey thoughts, emotions, and ideas. Within the vast realm of linguistics, one of the
fundamental elements that shapes the structure and coherence of a language is its sentence
patterns. In the case of English, sentence patterns serve as the intricate threads that weave
together words and phrases into meaningful expressions.

Understanding sentence patterns is akin to unlocking the hidden mechanics behind the art of
language. It allows us to delve into the underlying blueprint that facilitates effective
communication, enabling us to express our thoughts with precision and clarity. By analyzing
the structural arrangements of words, phrases, and clauses within sentences, we can
uncover the intrinsic patterns that give rise to grammatical cohesion.

This essay embarks on a captivating exploration of sentence patterns in English, aiming to

shed light on their significance and role in linguistic expression. We will traverse the diverse
landscape of sentence structures, unraveling the intricacies of subject-verb-object
arrangements, complex sentence formations, and stylistic variations. By delving into the
underlying principles that govern these patterns, we will gain a deeper appreciation for the
artistry and elegance inherent in the English language.

Moreover, we will delve into the practical implications of sentence patterns, recognizing their
influence on effective writing, persuasive rhetoric, and even the nuances of literary
expression. As we unravel the tapestry of sentence patterns, we will discover how skilled
writers and speakers deftly manipulate these patterns to create impact, rhythm, and
emphasis, breathing life into their words.

Ultimately, this exploration of sentence patterns not only enriches our understanding of the
English language but also equips us with the tools to wield its power. By unraveling the
threads that form sentences, we gain the ability to craft our ideas with precision and
eloquence, ensuring that our messages resonate with clarity and coherence.

So, let us embark on this captivating journey, traversing the intricate labyrinth of sentence
patterns, and uncovering the secrets that lie beneath the surface of the English language.
Together, we will unravel the tapestry of sentence patterns and witness how their mastery
empowers us to communicate effectively, persuasively, and beautifully.
 ELEMENTS OF SENTENCES

In order to build sentences, we must first know its parts which are generally subject, verb and object.
Understanding the roles of subjects, verbs, and objects in a sentence is fundamental to grasping the
structure and meaning of English sentences.

The subject of a sentence is the entity or person that performs the action or is being described. In the
sentence "Matt eats pizza," Matt is the subject because he is the one performing the action of eating
the pizza. The subject is typically a noun or a pronoun.

Verbs, on the other hand, are words that express actions, occurrences, or states of being. In English,
there are two main types of verbs: action verbs and linking verbs. Action verbs depict actions
performed by the subject, such as "eats" in the sentence "Matt eats pizza." It conveys the action Matt
is carrying out. Linking verbs, like the verb "is" in the sentence "Matt is hungry," connect the subject
to a specific state of being or describe the subject rather than expressing an action. In this case, the
verb "is" links Matt to the state of being hungry.

Objects, which usually appear after the verb, are entities that receive the action or are affected by it.
There are two types of objects: direct and indirect. A direct object receives the action directly from
the subject. In the sentence "Matt eats pizza," the direct object is "pizza" because it is the entity
being acted upon by Matt. We can ask the question "Matt eats what?" and the answer is "pizza."
An indirect object, on the other hand, indicates to whom or for whom an action is done. To illustrate
this concept, let's consider the sentence "Matt cuts the pizza for Nate." Here, Matt is the subject,
"cuts" is the verb, "pizza" is the direct object, and "Nate" is the indirect object. The pizza is being cut
by Matt, but it is being cut for Nate. We can ask the question "Matt cuts the pizza for whom?" and
the answer is "Nate."

Adjectives are another essential component of English sentences, contributing to the structure,
meaning, and vividness of our language.

Adjectives are words that describe or modify nouns or pronouns, providing additional information
about their qualities, characteristics, or attributes. They help us express specific details, differentiate
between objects, and create imagery in our sentences. For example, in the sentence "She wore a
beautiful dress," the adjective "beautiful" describes the quality of the dress, enhancing the visual
image we form in our minds.
Adjectives can be used in various positions within a sentence. They can appear before the noun they
modify ("a red car"), after a linking verb ("The car is red"), or as part of a predicate adjective
construction ("She is happy"). Adjectives allow us to convey precise meanings, evoke emotions, and
create a more engaging and descriptive narrative.

In addition to subjects, verbs, and objects, adverbs and complements further enhance the structure
and meaning of English sentences.

Adverbs play a crucial role in modifying verbs, adjectives, or other adverbs, providing additional
information about time, manner, place, frequency, or degree. They allow us to convey specific details
and add depth to our language. For example, in the sentence "She sings beautifully," the adverb
"beautifully" modifies the verb "sings" and describes how she sings with grace and skill.
Adverbs can be placed in various positions within a sentence. They can appear before the verb ("He
quickly ran"), after the verb ("She danced gracefully"), or even at the beginning or end of a sentence
for emphasis ("Suddenly, everything changed"). Adverbs enable us to paint vivid pictures with our
words, enhancing the tone, clarity, and impact of our expressions.
Complements, on the other hand, provide essential information that completes the meaning of a
sentence. They can come in the form of noun phrases, adjective phrases, or prepositional phrases.
Complements work closely with verbs, adjectives, or prepositions, adding depth, precision, and
context to our sentences.
In the sentence "She is a talented musician," the noun phrase "a talented musician" functions as a
complement to the linking verb "is." It completes the description of the subject "she" by providing
information about her talent and profession.
Similarly, in the sentence "He painted the wall blue," the adjective phrase "blue" serves as a
complement to the direct object "the wall." It provides additional information about the color of the
wall that was painted.
Prepositional phrases can also act as complements. For instance, in the sentence "She walked along
the beach," the prepositional phrase "along the beach" acts as a complement to the verb "walked,"
indicating the location of the action.

SENTENCES PATTERNS

Sentence patterns in English are constructed using a combination of phrases and clauses. Both
phrases and clauses contribute to the structure and completeness of a sentence.

A phrase is a group of words that are connected but lack a subject and/or a verb, making it
incomplete as a standalone sentence. Phrases function as building blocks within a sentence, providing
additional information or adding descriptive details. They can take the form of noun
phrases(ex : « The big red house »), verb phrases(ex : « Jumped over the fence »), adjective
phrase(ex : « Extremely tall and elegant »),, or prepositional phrases(ex : « In the park »). While
phrases play a vital role in sentence construction, they alone cannot express a complete thought.

On the other hand, a clause consists of a subject (the actor) and a verb (the action). Clauses can be
classified into two types: independent and dependent.

An independent clause is a complete thought that can stand alone as a sentence. It expresses a
complete idea and conveys a meaningful message. Independent clauses typically contain both a
subject and a verb, allowing them to function as independent sentences.Example : She walked the
store.

In contrast, a dependent clause, also known as a subordinate clause, cannot stand alone as a
complete sentence, even though it may contain a subject and a verb. Dependent clauses rely on
independent clauses to form a complete thought. They often begin with subordinating conjunctions
such as "because," "when," "while," "after," and many others. Dependent clauses provide additional
information, offer context, or establish relationships within a sentence, but they require an
independent clause to convey a complete idea.Example : Because it was raining, we stayed indoors.

The possibilities are endless for different types of sentences patterns. Here are the most common and
basic sentence patterns:

Sentence Patterns #1 - Subject / Verb

The most basic sentence pattern is a noun followed by a verb. It's important to remember that only
verbs that do not require oblects are used in this sentence pattern.
Examples:
People work.
Frank eats.
This basic sentence pattern can be modified by adding a noun phrase, possessive adjective, as well as
other elements. This is true for all the sentence patterns that follow.
Examples:
People work. -> Our employees work.
Frank eats. -> My dog Frank eats.

Sentence Patterns #2 – Subject / Verb / Object

The next sentence pattern builds on the first pattern and is used with nouns that can take objects.
Examples:
John plays football.
The boys are watching TV.

Sentence Patterns #3 – Subject / Verb / Adverb

The next sentence pattern builds on the first pattern by using an adverb to describe how an action is
done.
Examples:
Thomas drives quickly.
Anna doesn't sleep deeply.

Sentence Patterns #4 – Subject / Linking Verb / Complement

This sentence pattern uses linking verbs to link one noun to another. Linking verbs are also known as
equating verbs - verbs which equate one thing with another such as 'be, 'become', 'seem, etc.
Examples:
This seed will become an apple.

Sentence Patterns #5 – Subject / Linking verb / Adjective

ThIs sentence pattern is similar to sentence pattern #4, but uses linking verbs to link one noun to its
description using an adjective.
Examples:
My computer is slow!
Her parents seem unhappy.

Sentence Patterns #6 – Subject / Verb / Direct Object / Indirect Object

Sentence pattern #6 is used with verbs that take both direct and indirect objects.
Examples :
I bought Katherine a gift.
Jenniter showed Peter her car.
 CONCLUSION

In conclusion, sentence patterns play a crucial role in language and communication. They provide a
framework for organizing words and phrases into meaningful structures, allowing us to convey our
thoughts, ideas, and emotions effectively. By understanding and using different sentence patterns,
we can create variety and clarity in our writing and speech.

Sentence patterns help us convey different types of information, such as statements, questions,
commands, and exclamations. They also enable us to express complex relationships between ideas,
such as cause and effect, comparison, and contrast. By mastering sentence patterns, we can enhance
our ability to express ourselves and engage with others in meaningful conversations.

Moreover, sentence patterns are not limited to a single language. While different languages may
have their own unique sentence structures, the underlying principles of sentence patterns apply
universally. By studying sentence patterns in various languages, we can gain a deeper understanding
of language as a whole and improve our overall language skills.

It is important to note that sentence patterns should not be seen as rigid rules that restrict creativity
or expression. Instead, they serve as a foundation upon which we can build our own unique style and
voice. By understanding the fundamental patterns, we can then choose to deviate from them
intentionally for stylistic purposes or to convey specific meanings.

In conclusion, sentence patterns are fundamental structures that underpin effective communication.
By studying and mastering these patterns, we can enhance our language skills, improve our ability to
express ourselves, and engage with others more effectively.
 REFERENCES
Eastern Washington University Jul 21, 2021

David Crystal, Making Sense : The Glamorous Study of English Grammar,Oxford University Press 2017

Matthew Baker, University Writing & Speakîng Center