separate sentence

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "separate sentence" is correct and can be used in written English.
It refers to a part of a sentence that can stand alone as its own sentence, typically separated by a period or semicolon. Example: "Although the weather was hot, I decided to go for a run. It felt great to get some exercise in the sun." In this example, the second sentence can be considered a separate sentence because it can stand alone and still make sense without the first sentence.

✓ Grammatically correct

Law

Grammar

Writing

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 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

"If it weren't for the mandatory minimum aspect of this, I would use my discretion and impose some separate sentence," he told Mr. Wollard, adding that he was "duty bound" to impose 20 years.

The New York Times

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

On separate sentence strips write an answer for each question.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

* Two separate sentences.

The Guardian

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

Cornell University

She began going through the 10 separate sentences he faced: "I sentence you to life in prison," she said.

The New York Times

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

The New York Times

Thus, prosecutors have asked the judge to impose separate sentences for each violation, totaling 230 years in prison.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing, consider whether a complex sentence could be made clearer by breaking it into two "separate sentences". This can improve readability and comprehension.

Common error

Avoid treating dependent clauses as "separate sentences". Ensure each sentence has a subject and a verb and can stand alone meaningfully.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "separate sentence" functions as a noun phrase. It describes a sentence that can stand alone grammatically and semantically. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Wiki

25%

News & Media

25%

Academia

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

8%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "separate sentence" is grammatically correct and refers to a sentence that can stand alone meaningfully. As shown by Ludwig AI, the phrase is most commonly used in legal, grammatical, and writing contexts. While not overly frequent, it's a useful term for describing sentence structure, with the main purpose of identifying a grammatically complete and independent sentence. Considering breaking complex sentences into "separate sentences" to improve clarity and readability. Related phrases include "independent clause" and "standalone sentence".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Independent clause

Refers to a clause that can stand alone as a sentence; focuses on grammatical independence.

Standalone sentence

Highlights the ability of a sentence to exist and make sense on its own.

Complete sentence

Emphasizes the sentence's completeness in terms of grammar and meaning.

Self-contained sentence

Implies that the sentence does not rely on other clauses for its meaning.

Distinct sentence

Emphasizes the separateness and individuality of a sentence.

Individual sentence

Highlights that it is one sentence.

Separate count

In a legal context, a distinct charge or instance.

Discreet sentence

Stresses being distinct or not joined with others.

Separate charge

Highlights the existence of a separate legal charge.

Separate statement

Emphasizes the autonomy of the statement.

FAQs

How can I tell if a clause should be a "separate sentence"?

If the clause can stand alone and make sense on its own with a subject and a verb, it can be a "separate sentence". Otherwise, it's likely a dependent clause that needs to be connected to an independent clause.

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

An independent clause is a "separate sentence". It contains a subject and a verb and expresses a complete thought. A dependent clause, however, cannot stand alone.

When should I break up a long sentence into "separate sentences"?

Break up long, complex sentences into "standalone sentences" if they become difficult to follow. Clarity is key.

Are "separate sentences" always better than complex sentences?

Not necessarily. While "separate sentences" can enhance clarity, complex sentences can show relationships between ideas. Use a mix for varied sentence structure.