Fragments

Say whether these short utterances make whole sentences or not; and if they don’t, add whatever is necessary.

Introduction

Examine each group of words and say whether it is a complete sentence or not. If it is not, make whatever changes you think necessary, until you are satisfied that you have a complete sentence.

1. Correct.

2. Which deprived him momentarily of speech.

3. Whether that was his real reason.

4. Never seen her.

5. You refuse?

6. Not been doing this long.

For example

A stealthy footstep on the stairs.

She thought she heard a stealthy footstep on the stairs.

Was that a stealthy footstep on the stairs?

Note: Fragments are a common and indispensable part of everyday conversation, and are not ‘bad grammar’. However, they are discouraged in formal writing, so it is important to know the difference between a fragment and a sentence.

Read Next

Bits and Pieces

Suggest words for a small amount of something, such as water, salt or scandal.

Metaphors

Choose one of these words and use it metaphorically, not literally.

Tag Questions

Complete each of these statements with a little request for confirmation.