Classifying Sentences

Types of Sentences

A sentence is a group of words which expresses a complete thought. All sentences begin
with a capital letter. One should always use different types of sentences in his or her
writing. This will show variety in one’s written piece. When one shows variety in his or her
writing, it means that the sentences do not sound the same way because they are
constructed differently. This makes the writing more interesting and pulls the attention of
the reader.

- The Four (4) Types of Sentences

(Williamson, 2015)
Declarative Sentence
- ‘Declarative,’ is derived from the word, ‘declare,’ which means to ‘state.’
- A declarative sentence makes a statement which is usually factual.
- News reporters use this type of sentence frequently as their job is to report or
inform the public about things that happen on a daily basis.
- This type of sentence informs or tells the reader about various things.
- Declarative sentences end with full stops.
Examples: The teachers met for two (2) hours.
Usain Bolt won a gold medal in all of his races in Beijing.
I can just imagine how she felt (expression of one’s thoughts).
I wonder how they managed without the air conditioning unit throughout
the summer period (this sentence is not a question, although it sounds like
one).

Interrogative Sentence
- ‘Interrogative’ comes from the word, ‘interrogate,’ which means to ‘question or
enquire.’
- An interrogative sentence asks a question.
- Lawyers, judges, news reporters and the workers in the police department use
interrogative sentences on a daily basis because they have to make enquiries on a
frequent basis through interrogation of clients and interviews conducted with citizens.
- Interrogative sentences end with question marks.
- Example: Do you understand the topic?

Exclamatory Sentence
- ‘Exclamatory’ comes from the word, ‘exclaim,’ which means to ‘exclaim’ or ‘to
burst out suddenly.’
- Exclamatory sentences express excitement, strong feelings or emotions.
- Sportscasters use exclamatory sentences frequently to express excitement related to the
victory that a particular team or athlete attains.
- An exclamatory sentence ends with an exclamation mark.
- Examples: “He has done it again!”
“Usain Lightning Bolt ‘tore up’ the track!”

Imperative Sentence
- ‘Imperative’ is derived from the word, ‘imperate.’ ‘Imperate’ comes from the Latin
word, ‘imperatus,’ which means to command or govern.
- ‘Imperative’ means ‘authoritative, bossy or commanding.’
- An imperative sentence gives a command. When a command is given, it means that
someone is being given an order or instruction.
- Parents, teachers and judges are examples of persons who use imperative sentences on a
frequent basis because their jobs require them to give instructions.
- Imperative sentences can end with periods or exclamation marks.
- A strong command ends with an exclamation mark.
Example: “Go away!”
- A simple command or an instruction ends with a full stop.
Example: Wash the dishes.

- A command can come in the form of a polite request.

- Example: ‘Please wash the dishes.’ In this sentence, the use of the word, ‘please,’ makes
the command ‘polite,’ however, it is to be noted that a command or instruction is still
being given.