THEORETICAL ASPECTS IN THE FORMATION OF
PEDAGOGICAL SCIENCES
International scientific-online conference
67
THE THEORY OF SENTENCE IN MODERN ENGLISH
Azimova Malikabonu G’ulomjon qizi
Ministry of higher education, science and innovations
of the republic of Uzbekistan Karshi state university
Ergasheva G.
Scientific advisor:
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.15532115
Annotation:
This paper explores the theory of the sentence in modern
English, examining its structure, classification, and functions within linguistic
and communicative frameworks. The study analyzes how sentences are formed,
the syntactic rules they follow, and the roles they play in conveying meaning in
spoken and written discourse. Particular attention is given to sentence types—
simple, compound, complex, and compound-complex—as well as the functional
classification of sentences based on communicative purpose. Modern linguistic
approaches, including generative grammar and functional grammar, are
considered to provide a comprehensive understanding of sentence formation
and usage in contemporary English.
Keywords:
sentence theory, sentence structure, syntax, sentence types,
functional grammar, modern English, generative grammar, linguistic
communication, simple sentence, complex sentence.
Introduction
Language serves as a fundamental tool of human communication, and at the
core of every language lies the sentence — the basic unit of meaning and
expression. In modern English, understanding the nature and structure of the
sentence is essential for analyzing linguistic behavior, constructing coherent
discourse, and mastering both written and spoken forms of the language. The
study of sentence theory involves exploring the rules that govern sentence
formation, the various types of sentences, and their functions in communication.
The evolution of linguistic thought has led to the development of multiple
theoretical frameworks for analyzing sentences. Traditional grammar provided
initial classifications based on form and function, while modern approaches—
such as generative grammar, structuralism, and functional grammar—offer
deeper insights into syntactic organization and communicative purpose. This
paper aims to examine the theoretical foundations of sentence construction in
modern English, focusing on its grammatical structure, classification, and the
communicative roles it fulfills in everyday language use.
Definition and Importance of the Sentence
THEORETICAL ASPECTS IN THE FORMATION OF
PEDAGOGICAL SCIENCES
International scientific-online conference
68
A sentence is traditionally defined as a grammatical unit that expresses a
complete thought. It typically consists of a subject and a predicate and conveys a
statement, question, command, or exclamation. In modern English, the sentence
is regarded as a central unit of communication. Its importance lies in its ability
to organize words and ideas into coherent messages, making it essential for
effective verbal and written interaction.
Structural Classification of Sentences
From a structural point of view, English sentences are divided into four
main types:
Simple Sentences – consist of a single independent clause (e.g., "She reads
every day.").
Compound Sentences – contain two or more independent clauses joined by
a coordinating conjunction (e.g., "He came, and she left.").
Complex Sentences – consist of one independent clause and at least one
dependent clause (e.g., "Although it was raining, we went for a walk.").
Compound-Complex Sentences – include multiple independent clauses and
at least one dependent clause (e.g., "She smiled when he arrived, and they began
to talk.").
Functional Classification of Sentences
Based on communicative purpose, sentences are categorized as:
Declarative Sentences – used to make statements (e.g., "The sky is blue.").
Interrogative Sentences – used to ask questions (e.g., "Is she coming?").
Imperative Sentences – used to give commands or requests (e.g., "Close the
door.").
Exclamatory Sentences – used to express strong emotions (e.g., "What a
beautiful view!").
Sentence Elements and Word Order
English sentence structure follows a relatively fixed word order, typically
Subject–Verb–Object (SVO). Core elements of a sentence include:
Subject: the person or thing performing the action.
Predicate: the part of the sentence containing the verb and providing
information about the subject.
Objects and Complements: provide additional information, such as who or
what is affected by the action.
Modifiers such as adjectives and adverbs enhance sentence meaning but
must be placed correctly to avoid ambiguity.
Modern Linguistic Approaches to Sentence Theory
THEORETICAL ASPECTS IN THE FORMATION OF
PEDAGOGICAL SCIENCES
International scientific-online conference
69
Modern theories such as generative grammar (Noam Chomsky) emphasize
the innate rules that govern sentence formation, introducing the concept of deep
and surface structures. Functional grammar focuses on the communicative
purposes and contexts in which sentences are used. These approaches offer
more comprehensive ways to analyze sentence meaning and structure beyond
traditional grammar.
Conclusion
The sentence remains a fundamental element of linguistic structure and
communication in modern English. Through examining its structural and
functional classifications, we gain a deeper understanding of how meaning is
constructed and conveyed. Simple, compound, complex, and compound-complex
sentence forms each serve distinct purposes, as do declarative, interrogative,
imperative, and exclamatory functions.
Modern linguistic theories, including generative and functional grammar,
have expanded our understanding of sentence formation by addressing both
syntactic rules and communicative intent. These insights are essential not only
for linguistic analysis but also for language teaching, translation, and improving
communication skills in English.
In conclusion, the study of sentence theory bridges the gap between
grammar and effective communication, making it a crucial area of research in
modern linguistics.
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