Structural and Functional Analysis of Complex Compound Sentences in Russian Syntax

Abstract

This article examines the role of complex compound sentences (сложносочинённые предложения, or SSPs) in Russian syntax, focusing on their significance in expressing nuanced relationships between independent clauses. Utilizing both traditional and non-traditional linguistic frameworks, the study categorizes SSPs based on their coordinating conjunctions—connective, adversative, and disjunctive—and explores how each conjunction type impacts sentence meaning and structure. The findings highlight the syntactic independence of clauses within SSPs, which provides flexibility in creating cohesive, multi-layered sentences. The study also addresses pedagogical challenges for non-native learners, including punctuation errors and semantic misinterpretations, suggesting targeted teaching strategies to enhance learners’ proficiency. Recommendations for educators include exercises on differentiating SSPs from simple sentences with homogeneous parts and targeted practice with conjunction functions. Finally, the article suggests directions for future research on complex syntactic structures in Russian and their acquisition by learners from diverse linguistic backgrounds.