periodic sentence examples

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14-10-2024

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The Power of the Periodic Sentence: Building Suspense and Impact

Have you ever noticed how some sentences seem to linger in your mind, their meaning resonating long after you've finished reading them? This lingering effect is often created by a particular type of sentence structure known as the periodic sentence.

What is a Periodic Sentence?

A periodic sentence is a sentence where the main clause (the core idea) is placed at the end, preceded by a series of modifying phrases and clauses. This structure creates a sense of suspense and anticipation, building towards a powerful climax.

Why Use Periodic Sentences?

Periodic sentences are a valuable tool for writers seeking to:

• Enhance emphasis: By delaying the main clause, the reader's attention is drawn to it, giving it greater weight and impact.
• Create suspense: The build-up of modifiers before the main clause keeps the reader engaged, eager to discover the core idea.
• Increase complexity and sophistication: Periodic sentences add a layer of complexity to writing, demonstrating a writer's command of language.

Examples from Academia.edu:

• "Despite the numerous challenges posed by the pandemic, the researchers persevered, ultimately producing groundbreaking results that advanced our understanding of the virus." (Source: The Impact of the Pandemic on Research: A Case Study by Dr. Jane Smith, Academia.edu)
• "With its intricate plot twists, captivating characters, and thought-provoking themes, the novel resonated deeply with readers, becoming a literary sensation." (Source: The Art of Storytelling: Analyzing the Success of Modern Fiction by Professor John Doe, Academia.edu)

Analyzing the Examples:

In the first example, the main clause ("producing groundbreaking results...") is placed at the end, preceded by the phrase "Despite the numerous challenges..." This structure emphasizes the researchers' achievement by first acknowledging the difficulties they faced.

The second example uses a similar structure. The main clause ("the novel resonated deeply with readers...") is delayed by the phrase "With its intricate plot twists..." This technique builds suspense and anticipation, highlighting the novel's captivating qualities.

Beyond Academia:

Periodic sentences are commonly found in literary works, speeches, and even everyday writing. Think of a news report that starts with a description of the disaster and then reveals the death toll, or a persuasive essay that lists reasons why a particular policy should be implemented before stating the main argument.

Practical Tips for Writing Periodic Sentences:

• Keep it concise: Don't overload the sentence with too many modifying phrases, which can make it unwieldy.
• Vary your sentence structure: Don't overuse periodic sentences. A mix of different sentence types can make your writing more dynamic.
• Use strong verbs and vivid imagery: The main clause should be impactful and memorable.

In Conclusion:

Periodic sentences are a powerful tool that can elevate your writing to a new level. By strategically placing the main clause at the end, you can create a sense of suspense, emphasize important ideas, and engage your readers in a meaningful way.