MICROLINC INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY COLLEGE

DEPARTMENT OF COMPUTER ENGINEERING

COMMUNICATIVE ENGLISH II

ASSIGNMENT-I
THE FUNCTION OF SENTENCE

BY: Mekbib Estifanos ID NO: 15/125/23

Submitted to: Ins. Daniel

Submission Date: Dec, 18, 2023
Addis Ababa
 ABSTRACT
This paper explores the fundamental functions of sentences in English, focusing on the
four main types: declarative, interrogative, imperative, and exclamatory. It begins by establishing
the general definition of a sentence as a group of words expressing a complete thought and
introduces the concept of sentence functions or types, which are crucial for understanding the
speaker's intention. The four main functions are then detailed, emphasizing their purposes,
structures, characteristics, and examples. Declarative sentences convey information, interrogative
sentences seek information, imperative sentences issue commands, and exclamatory sentences
express strong emotions. The article highlights the significance of recognizing and understanding
sentence functions for effective communication and interpretation.

Key Words: Sentence, Function of Sentence, Declarative, Interrogative, Imperative, Exclamatory

INTRODUCTION
A sentence is a group of words that expresses a complete thought. The function of a
sentence refers to its purpose, which can be to make a statement, ask a question, give a
command, or make an exclamation. In linguistics, sentence functions are sometimes referred to
as sentence types, and they help us understand the speaker's intention behind uttering a specific
sentence, phrase, or clause.
The four main sentence functions are declarative, interrogative, imperative, and
exclamatory. A declarative sentence makes a statement, an interrogative sentence asks a
question, an imperative sentence gives a command, and an exclamatory sentence makes an
exclamation. Each type of sentence serves a specific function in communication, and
understanding these functions can help us analyze and interpret the meaning behind the words.
By recognizing and understanding the function of a sentence, we can better comprehend the
message being conveyed and respond accordingly.
Knowing how to utilize various sentence functions can enhance the complexity and
diversity of one's writing, thereby enabling the writer to effectively communicate precise
emotions and intentions. This proficiency empowers individuals to articulate their thoughts with
greater clarity, inquire about various matters, issue commands, and vividly express intense
emotions or unexpected astonishment. By attaining mastery in the utilization of sentence
functions, individuals can elevate the level of engagement and effectiveness in their writing
endeavors.
THE FUNCTION OF SENTENCE
In English, there are four main types of sentence functions: declarative, interrogative,
imperative, and exclamatory.

1
1. Declarative Sentence
A declarative sentence, often referred to as a statement, is a type of sentence that conveys
information or makes a statement. Declarative sentences are characterized by their
straightforward nature, as they declare or state a fact, opinion, or idea. The primary function of a
declarative sentence is to provide information, and it typically ends with a period.
Declarative sentences are foundational to effective communication, as they provide
information, convey ideas, and contribute to the clarity and coherence of language. Whether used
in academic writing, storytelling, or casual conversation, declarative sentences play a crucial role
in expressing thoughts and sharing knowledge.
Structure of a Declarative Sentence
A declarative sentence generally follows a simple structure. It consists of two main
components: the subject and the predicate. The subject is the part of the sentence that performs
the action or about which something is stated, and the predicate contains the verb and provides
information about the subject.

Subject + Predicate + Period

Examples of Declarative Sentences:

a. The sun sets in the west.
 Subject: The sun
 Predicate: sets in the west
b. Elephants are the largest land animals.
 Subject: Elephants
 Predicate: are the largest land animals
c. Mount Everest is the highest peak in the world.
 Subject: Mount Everest
 Predicate: is the highest peak in the world
d. Mona Lisa is a famous painting by Leonardo da Vinci.
 Subject: Mona Lisa
 Predicate: is a famous painting by Leonardo da Vinci
e. Honeybees play a crucial role in pollination.
 Subject: Honeybees
 Predicate: play a crucial role in pollination
Characteristics of Declarative Sentences
 Statement: Declarative sentences make statements or express facts, opinions, or ideas.

2
  Clarity: These sentences aim for clarity and straightforwardness in conveying
information.
 Subject-Verb Agreement: The subject and verb in a declarative sentence must agree in
number and person.
 Neutral Tone: Declarative sentences are typically delivered in a neutral tone, without the
emphasis found in exclamatory sentences.
 Punctuation: The use of a period signifies the end of the statement.

2. Interrogative Sentence
An interrogative sentence is a type of sentence that is designed to ask a question. It seeks
information, clarification, or confirmation and is characterized by its interrogative tone. Unlike
declarative sentences that make statements, interrogative sentences use a specific word order and
often begin with a question word or auxiliary verb. The primary function of an interrogative
sentence is to elicit a response.
Interrogative sentences play a crucial role in communication, fostering dialogue, inquiry,
and the exchange of information. They invite engagement and encourage individuals to share
their thoughts, experiences, and knowledge.
Structure of an Interrogative Sentence
The structure of an interrogative sentence can vary, but it generally follows two main
patterns:
I. Yes/No Questions: These questions seek a simple "yes" or "no" response.

Auxiliary Verb/Modal + Subject + Main Verb + Complement?

Example: Are you coming to the party?

 Auxiliary Verb: Are
 Subject: you
 Main Verb: coming
 Complement: to the party
II. Wh-Questions: These questions begin with question words (e.g., who, what, where, when,
why, how) and seek more detailed information.

Question Word + Auxiliary Verb/Modal + Subject + Main Verb + Complement?

Example: What is your favorite book?

 Question Word: What
 Auxiliary Verb: is
 Subject: your

3
  Main Verb: favorite
 Complement: book
Examples of Interrogative Sentences
a. Where did you go on vacation last year?
 Question Word: Where
 Auxiliary Verb: did
 Subject: you
 Main Verb: go
 Complement: on vacation last year?
b. Are they coming to the meeting tomorrow?
 Auxiliary Verb: Are
 Subject: they
 Main Verb: coming
 Complement: to the meeting tomorrow?
c. How does photosynthesis work?
 Question Word: How
 Auxiliary Verb: does
 Subject: photosynthesis
 Main Verb: work
 Complement:?
d. Who won the Nobel Prize in Literature this year?
 Question Word: Who
 Auxiliary Verb: won
 Subject: the Nobel Prize in Literature
 Complement: this year?
e. Have you ever visited Lalibela?
 Auxiliary Verb: Have
 Subject: you
 Main Verb: ever visited
 Complement: Lalibela?
Characteristics of Interrogative Sentences
 Inquisitive Tone: Interrogative sentences convey a tone of inquiry, prompting a response
from the listener or reader.
 Varied Sentence Structure: The structure can vary based on the type of question, with
yes/no questions and wh-questions following distinct patterns.
 Use of Question Words: Wh-questions employ question words to seek specific
information, such as who, what, where, when, why, and how.

4
  Punctuation: Interrogative sentences typically end with a question mark (?), signaling
the interrogative nature of the sentence.

3. Imperative Sentence
Imperative sentences are a distinct type of sentence that conveys commands, requests, or
instructions. Unlike declarative sentences, which make statements, or interrogative sentences,
which ask questions, imperatives are designed to elicit action or response. Understanding the
structure of imperative sentences is crucial for effective communication, particularly in situations
where clarity and directness are essential.
Imperative sentences play a crucial role in communication, providing clear and concise
directives. They are commonly encountered in everyday language, ranging from simple
commands to more complex instructions, and are vital for effective communication in various
contexts.
Structure of an Imperative Sentence
The structure of an imperative sentence is straightforward, typically omitting the subject
(you) as it is implied. The imperative verb, which indicates the action to be performed, takes the
lead:
Imperative Verb + Complement (optional)

Examples of Imperative Sentences:

a. Sit quietly during the exam.
 Imperative Verb: Sit
 Complement: quietly during the exam.
b. Shut the door before leaving.
 Imperative Verb: Shut
 Complement: the door before leaving.
c. Study for at least two hours every day.
 Imperative Verb: Study
 Complement: for at least two hours every day.
d. Call me when you arrive.
 Imperative Verb: Call
 Complement: me when you arrive.
e. Don't forget to bring your identification card.
 Imperative Verb: Forget (negated)
 Complement: to bring your identification card.
Characteristics of Imperative Sentences

5
  Omitted Subject: Imperative sentences often omit the explicit subject (you), relying on
the implied subject. The verb alone directs the action.
 Direct Tone: Imperatives convey a direct and assertive tone, instructing the listener to
perform a specific action.
 Optional Additional Information: While imperative sentences typically consist of the
imperative verb alone, additional information or context may be included for clarity or
emphasis.
 Punctuation: Imperative sentences usually end with a period (.) or, in cases of strong
emphasis or urgency, an exclamation mark (!).
 Positive or Negative Form: Imperative sentences can be framed in the positive form,
instructing an action, or in the negative form, indicating what not to do.
4. Exclamatory Sentence
Exclamatory sentences are a distinctive type of sentence that conveys strong emotions,
excitement, surprise, or any other intense feeling. These sentences are characterized by their
exclamation point at the end, which signals a heightened emotional tone. Understanding the
structure of exclamatory sentences is crucial for effectively expressing and recognizing
emotional statements.
Exclamatory sentences are powerful tools for expressing feelings and capturing attention.
They add dynamism and emphasis to written and spoken language, allowing individuals to
convey the intensity of their emotions in various contexts. The exclamation point serves as a
visual cue, instantly signaling the emotional nature of the statement.
Structure of an Exclamatory Sentence
The structure of an exclamatory sentence is similar to that of a declarative sentence, with
the key distinction being the use of an exclamation mark to convey heightened emotion.

Subject + Predicate + Exclamation Mark

Examples of Exclamatory Sentences

a. I can't believe I won the lottery!
 Subject: I
 Predicate: can't believe I won the lottery!
b. How amazing that performance was!
 Subject: (implied, referring to the performance)
 Predicate: How amazing that performance was!
c. What a delicious meal you prepared!
 Subject: (implied, referring to the meal)
 Predicate: What a delicious meal you prepared!
d. Wow, what a stunning view!

6
  Subject: (implied, referring to the view)
 Predicate: Wow, what a stunning view!
e. Congratulations on your achievement!
 Subject: (implied, referring to the person)
 Predicate: Congratulations on your achievement!
Characteristics of Exclamatory Sentences
 Expressive Tone: Exclamatory sentences convey a strong and expressive tone, reflecting
emotions such as excitement, surprise, joy, or pain.
 Exclamation Mark: The use of an exclamation mark is a defining feature of
exclamatory sentences, indicating the heightened emotional state.
 Subject-Verb Structure: Exclamatory sentences may have a subject and a verb, but they
can also function without a specific subject when expressing strong emotion.
 Optional Additional Information: Some exclamatory sentences include additional
information, while others consist of a concise expression of emotion.
 Versatility: Exclamatory sentences can convey a wide range of emotions, from positive
excitement to negative surprise.
SUMMARY OF THE FUNCTION OF SENTENCE
Here's a summary of the four functions of sentences – declarative, interrogative, imperative, and
exclamatory – presented in a table format:
Table 1. Summary of the function of sentence

Function Purpose Structure Example

Declarative Conveys information, Subject + Predicate + The sun sets in the
statements, or opinions.Period west.
Interrogative Seeks information(Question Word) + Have you completed
through questions. Auxiliary Verb/Modal + the assignment?
Subject + Main Verb +
Complement?
Imperative Issues commands or Imperative Verb + Study for at least two
requests. Complement (optional) hours every day.
Exclamatory Expresses strong Subject + Predicate + What a stunning
emotions, excitement, Exclamation Mark sunset!
or surprise

CONCLUSION
The functions of sentences serve as the backbone of effective communication in English.
Declarative sentences contribute to clarity and convey information, interrogative sentences foster
inquiry and dialogue, imperative sentences provide directives, and exclamatory sentences add
emotional intensity to expressions. Mastery of these functions empowers individuals to articulate

7
thoughts with precision, inquire effectively, issue clear commands, and vividly express emotions.
Whether in academic writing, storytelling, or everyday conversation, a comprehensive
understanding of sentence functions enhances language complexity and facilitates more engaging
and effective communication.
REFERENCE
Akmajian, A. (1984). Sentence types and the form-function fit. Natural Language & Linguistic
Theory, 1-23.
Aliyeva, K. S. (2016). About the different kinds of meanings of a sentence. Theory and Practice
in Language Studies, 6(9), 1762.
Andersen, S, (2014). Sentence Types and Functions. San José State University Writing Center.
https://www.sjsu.edu/writingcenter/docs/handouts/Sentence%20Types%20and
%20Functions.pdf
English Proficiency, (2022). What are Sentence Functions? English Proficiency Editorial Team.
https://englishproficiency.com/latest-articles/language-tips/what-are-sentence-functions/
Firbas, J. (1992). Functional sentence perspective in written and spoken
communication. Cambridge University Press.
Károly, S. (1963). Kinds of sentences examined from the point of view of function and form.
Acta Linguistica Academiae Scientiarum Hungaricae, 13(3/4), 225-255.
My English Grammar, (2023). Writing: Sentence Functions. MyEnglishGrammar.com.
https://myenglishgrammar.com/lessons/writing-sentence-functions/
Verspoor, M., Sauter, K. (2000). English Sentence Analysis: An Introductory Course. J.
Benjamins.
Veselovská, L. (2019). Form and Functions in English Grammar. Univerzita Palackého v
Olomouci.
Wikipedia, (2023). Sentence function. Wikimedia Foundation, Inc.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sentence_function