Which element is required to form a complete sentence?

Which element is required to form a complete sentence?

• A. A dependent clause
• B. A prepositional phrase
• C. A subject or finite verb
• D. A conjunction

Answer: (C)

A complete sentence needs to convey who is doing something and show it happening, which usually comes from a subject plus a finite verb. Sometimes the subject is implied, as in commands, so a sentence can be complete with just a finite verb. That’s why this element is the best answer: you must have either a subject or a finite verb to express a clear action or state with proper tense. If you only have a dependent clause, the thought isn’t finished by itself; it leaves you asking for more information. A prepositional phrase describes a relation or location but doesn’t have a verb to show action or state. And a conjunction by itself can only connect ideas; it can’t stand alone as a complete sentence.

A complete sentence needs to convey who is doing something and show it happening, which usually comes from a subject plus a finite verb. Sometimes the subject is implied, as in commands, so a sentence can be complete with just a finite verb. That’s why this element is the best answer: you must have either a subject or a finite verb to express a clear action or state with proper tense.

If you only have a dependent clause, the thought isn’t finished by itself; it leaves you asking for more information. A prepositional phrase describes a relation or location but doesn’t have a verb to show action or state. And a conjunction by itself can only connect ideas; it can’t stand alone as a complete sentence.