SENTENCE
A group of words, which makes complete sense, is called a sentence.
Example:
Rama is a brave king.
KINDS OF SENTENCES
There are four kinds of sentences. They are:
- A sentence that makes a statement or assertion is called a Declarative or Assertive sentence.
Example:
Ram and Sam sat on the bench.
- A sentence that asks a question is called an Interrogative sentence. It usually ends with a question mark(?).
Example:
What is your name?
- A sentence that expresses a command or request is called an Imperative sentence.
Examples:
Have mercy upon the poor.
Excuse me, give me your pen.
- A sentence that expresses a strong feeling is called an Exclamatory sentence.
Examples:
- What a game!
- What a tremendous storm!
AFFIRMATIVE AND NEGATIVE SENTENCES
Affirmative | Negative |
|---|---|
Mr. Ram is a teacher. | Mr. Ram is not a teacher. |
Is Miss Saru a doctor? | Is Miss Saru not a doctor? |
Close the door. | Don't close the door. |
TRANSFORMATION
Transforming Assertive into Interrogative Sentences
Assertive | Interrogative |
|---|---|
It is very simple. | Is it very simple? |
Everyone knows you. | Who doesn't know you? |
There is nothing wrong with me. | Is there anything wrong with me? |
Transforming Exclamatory into Assertive Sentences
Exclamatory | Assertive |
|---|---|
What a lovely flower! | It is a very lovely flower. |
Alas! Mr Maran is dead. | It is sad that Mr Maran is dead. |
What a piece of wood work! | It is a nice piece of wood work. |
Transforming Affirmative into Negative Sentences
Affirmative | Negative |
|---|---|
Look before you leap. | Do not leap before you look. |
Everyone will like it. | No one will dislike it. |
Man is mortal. | No man is immortal. |
Transforming Negative into Affirmative Sentences
Negative | Affirmative |
|---|---|
Never tell a lie. | Always speak the truth. |
He is no mean man. | He is a good man. |
There is no smoke without fire. | Fire always causes smoke. |
ANOMALOUS VERBS
Present Tense | Past Tense |
|---|---|
am, is, are | was, were |
have, has | had |
do, does | did |
shall | should |
will | would |
can | could |
may | might |
must | — |
ought | — |
Some typical mistakes in making questions
Look at these sentences:
Incorrect | Correct |
|---|---|
She has done the work? | Has she done the work? |
You have received my letter of June? | Have you received my letter of June? |
You like tea? | Do you like tea? |
Did you went there? | Did you go there? |
Your uncle is coming today? | Is your uncle coming today? |
Why you are sleeping? | Why are you sleeping? |
Tell me when are you coming? | Tell me when you are coming? |