Meaning & use
sentence
A set of words that expresses a complete thought and typically contains a subject and a verb.
See it in a sentence
Her essay opened with a short sentence that immediately grabbed the reader's attention.
The teacher asked us to combine the two short sentences into one.
A note on using this word
In law, 'sentence' also means the punishment a court hands down after a conviction; watch for this second sense in context.
Words with a similar meaning
This term is best learned through its definition and examples.
Choose a synonym to suit the sentence. Meanings can overlap without being identical.
Another way to use it
2. noun
The punishment formally given to a person convicted of a crime.
The judge handed down a ten-year sentence for the armed robbery.
3. verb
To formally declare the punishment for someone convicted of a crime.
The court sentenced him to community service and a substantial fine.
Make it your own
Write a sentence using “sentence”, then compare your use with the examples above.