Jigsaw Sentences

Join each group of sentences together to make single sentence, in as many ways as you can.

Introduction

Combine each group of two or more sentences into a single sentence. Change any words you like so long as the basic ideas remain the same; try introducing speech, personal names or any descriptive details you like. Do not be satisfied with the first sentence you think of; think of several, and choose the best. Some sentences are from NL Clay’s textbooks, others are drawn from English literature.

1. She blushed furiously. She spoke. I could not hear the words.

Catch. Inaudible. Mumble.

2. He declined to explain. He left the room quickly. He did not wait for a reply.

Hurry. Retreat. Without.

3. This is the original. That is the forgery. I can see no difference.

Apart. Distinguish. Identical.

4. You say I’m a thief. You have given no proof.

Accuse. Back up. Justify.

5. I rubbed my wrists vigorously. That restored the circulation to my hands. I could now undo the gag.

Blood. Knot. Massage.

6. Someone has the letters. You want to find him. I don’t have them.

Look for. Whoever.

Read Next

By Leaps and Bounds

Make up a scenario for each of these prepositional phrases, such as ‘beyond endurance’ or ‘for no reason at all’.

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.