20 powerful periodic sentence examples from famous literature

📚 Quick Study Guide

• 📖 A periodic sentence is a sentence in which the main clause or predicate is withheld until the end.
• 💥 The effect is to create suspense and interest for the reader.
• ✍️ The basic structure is: subordinate elements + main clause.
• 🌟 The periodic sentence is also known as a 'suspended sentence'.
• 📝 Use periodic sentences to add emphasis, create a dramatic effect, and enhance the rhythm of your writing.

Practice Quiz

1. Which of the following is a characteristic of a periodic sentence?
   1. A. The main clause comes at the beginning.
   2. B. The main clause is interrupted by subordinate clauses.
   3. C. The main clause comes at the end.
   4. D. It lacks a main clause.
2. Which of the following sentences is an example of a periodic sentence?
   1. A. Because it was raining, we stayed inside.
   2. B. We stayed inside because it was raining.
   3. C. We stayed inside, although it was raining.
   4. D. After a long journey, full of adventures and hardships, they arrived home.
3. What is the primary effect of using a periodic sentence?
   1. A. Clarity
   2. B. Suspense
   3. C. Simplicity
   4. D. Brevity
4. In a periodic sentence, where does the essential meaning become clear?
   1. A. At the beginning
   2. B. In the middle
   3. C. At the end
   4. D. Throughout the entire sentence
5. Which literary device is most closely associated with periodic sentences?
   1. A. Metaphor
   2. B. Simile
   3. C. Suspense
   4. D. Alliteration
6. Identify the periodic sentence from the options below:
   1. A. The dog barked loudly.
   2. B. The cat slept soundly.
   3. C. In spite of heavy snow and icy conditions, the mail must go through.
   4. D. She sang a beautiful song.
7. What is another name for a periodic sentence?
   1. A. Balanced sentence
   2. B. Loose sentence
   3. C. Suspended sentence
   4. D. Simple sentence