a separate sentence

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a separate sentence" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing the structure of sentences, particularly in contexts where clarity or distinction between ideas is needed. Example: "Make sure to write each point as a separate sentence to enhance readability."

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

In 1908 Parliament established the system that permitted magistrates to prescribe "Borstal detention" as a separate sentence for young offenders.

Britannica

In cumulative sentences a defendant convicted on several counts receives a separate sentence for each count; such sentences may run concurrently or consecutively.

Encyclopedia Britannica

His Murakami Fund was charged with receiving inside information from livedoor, whose boss, Takafumi Horie, is appealing against a separate sentence.

The Economist

To say "He rolled the ball down the hill," for example, we hang "He" from the tree and then hang a separate sentence, "The ball rolled down the hill," a little ways over.

The New York Times - Books

The clause "While he agreed with his brother" would not make sense a separate sentence, so it is a dependent clause.

WikiHow

Think of a long sentence like this one: each half is a separate sentence, but the first half sets up the second.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

con- ducted a separate sentencing hearing" at which he determined that no aggravating circumstances were present.

Cornell University

Then, in a separate sentencing phase of the trial, jurors would have to agree to impose a death sentence.

The New York Times

After the judgment is translated into French for the defence, a separate sentencing hearing will take place.

The Guardian

He rejected the possibilities of convening a separate sentencing jury or imposing the maximum sentence suggested by the factors that had been proved or admitted.

The New York Times

Some jurisdictions allow the judge alone to determine the sentence; others will have a separate sentencing phase trial, complete with a new jury, to determine the sentence for certain crimes.

Cornell University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When teaching writing, use "a separate sentence" to clarify the concept of complete thoughts. This helps students understand how to structure their ideas clearly and avoid run-on sentences.

Common error

Avoid writing exclusively in short, "separate sentences". While clarity is important, varying sentence length adds rhythm and sophistication to your writing. Use conjunctions or semicolons to combine related ideas into more complex sentences.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a separate sentence" functions as a noun phrase, typically used to describe a sentence that is independent and distinct from others. It refers to a complete thought that can stand alone. Ludwig confirms its correct usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Wiki

29%

News & Media

29%

Encyclopedias

14%

Less common in

Science

14%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a separate sentence" is a grammatically correct and useful phrase for describing an independent statement in writing. While it's not exceptionally common, Ludwig's analysis of various sources confirms its appropriate usage across diverse contexts, including instructional writing and legal descriptions. Emphasizing clarity and conciseness, the phrase helps to distinguish complete thoughts, though varying sentence structure remains important for engaging and sophisticated writing. Related phrases like "an individual sentence" or "a distinct sentence" can be used for semantic variation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an individual sentence

Replaces "separate" with "individual", emphasizing the singularity of the sentence.

a distinct sentence

Uses "distinct" to highlight the clear differentiation of the sentence from others.

an independent clause

Replaces the entire phrase with a grammatical term referring to a complete thought.

a stand-alone sentence

Uses "stand-alone" to convey the sentence's ability to exist on its own.

a self-contained sentence

Emphasizes the sentence's completeness and lack of reliance on other sentences.

a discrete sentence

Uses "discrete" to highlight the clear boundaries and separateness of the sentence.

an isolated sentence

Suggests the sentence is not connected to surrounding text.

a detached sentence

Conveys a sense of disconnection from the overall flow.

a fragmented sentence

Emphasizes the lack of integration with the adjacent phrases, conveying the idea of an incomplete phrase.

an unrelated sentence

Implies no logical connection to the surrounding sentences.

FAQs

How can I use "a separate sentence" effectively in writing?

Use "a separate sentence" to present each distinct idea clearly. This is particularly useful when explaining complex concepts or providing step-by-step instructions. Ensure each sentence stands alone as a complete thought.

What's the difference between "a separate sentence" and an independent clause?

"A separate sentence" is a complete thought expressed as a standalone unit. An independent clause is a clause that can stand alone as a sentence. Thus, the terms are essentially interchangeable.

What can I say instead of "a separate sentence" when giving writing instructions?

You can use alternatives like "an individual sentence", "a distinct sentence", or "a stand-alone sentence" to emphasize the need for clear and independent statements.

Is it always better to use "a separate sentence" for each idea?

Not necessarily. While "a separate sentence" promotes clarity, varying sentence structure can improve readability. Combine related ideas using conjunctions or semicolons to create more complex and engaging sentences.