Fragment

Definition

A fragment is an incomplete sentence that lacks a main clause, making it unable to stand alone as a complete thought. Fragments often occur when a dependent clause or phrase is presented without the necessary independent clause, leading to confusion in writing. Recognizing fragments is crucial for effective communication, as they can disrupt the flow of information and clarity in written works.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Fragments can be created by leaving out the subject or verb of a sentence, making it sound incomplete.
2. Common types of fragments include phrases, dependent clauses, and even single words used out of context.
3. To correct a fragment, you can either attach it to a nearby independent clause or rewrite it as a complete sentence.
4. Writers often overlook fragments in their drafts, which can lead to unclear or confusing communication.
5. Identifying fragments is an important part of the editing process to ensure clarity and coherence in writing.

Review Questions

• How can identifying fragments improve overall writing quality?
  • Identifying fragments helps improve overall writing quality by ensuring that each sentence conveys a complete thought. When writers recognize and correct fragments, they enhance clarity and coherence in their work, allowing readers to follow their ideas without confusion. This attention to detail can elevate the professionalism of the writing, making it more effective and engaging.
• What strategies can be employed to correct a fragment in written work?
  • To correct a fragment, one effective strategy is to attach it to an adjacent independent clause, creating a complete thought. Alternatively, writers can rewrite the fragment into a full sentence by adding necessary elements such as subjects or verbs. Employing these strategies not only resolves the fragment but also improves the overall flow of the writing.
• Evaluate the impact of using fragments on reader comprehension and engagement with a text.
  • Using fragments can significantly impact reader comprehension and engagement by introducing ambiguity and confusion. When fragments interrupt the logical flow of information, readers may struggle to grasp the writer's intended message. This disruption can lead to frustration and disinterest, ultimately reducing the effectiveness of the text. Therefore, maintaining complete sentences is essential for fostering clarity and keeping readers engaged.

Related terms

independent clause: A group of words that contains a subject and a verb and expresses a complete thought, able to stand alone as a sentence.

dependent clause: A group of words that contains a subject and a verb but does not express a complete thought, thus cannot stand alone as a sentence.

run-on sentence: A sentence that improperly joins two or more independent clauses without appropriate punctuation or conjunctions, leading to confusion.