Change the following compound sentence into simple sentence. We must eat, or we cannot live

Appeared in: NVS Staff Nurse - 2019

Explanation

To convert a compound sentence into a simple sentence, the purpose or reason must be expressed using a phrase rather than a full clause.
The infinitive phrase 'to live' correctly and concisely expresses the purpose of the action 'must eat'.
The resulting sentence, 'We must eat to live,' contains only one subject-verb pair (independent clause), which is the definition of a simple sentence.

Option A: This is a compound sentence, not a simple one. The word 'for' is a coordinating conjunction that joins two independent clauses ('We must eat' and 'we cannot live').
Option B: This sentence is grammatically incorrect. The infinitive of purpose requires 'to' followed by the base form of the verb (live), not the present participle/gerund (living).
Option D: This is a complex sentence, not a simple one. It contains an independent clause ('We must eat') and a dependent adverbial clause of purpose ('so that we can live').

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Conversion of a compound sentence into a simple sentence as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Clear and concise communication is a critical skill for nurses when documenting patient care, providing patient education, or collaborating with other healthcare professionals.
Understanding sentence structure helps in writing clear, unambiguous notes and instructions, which is vital for patient safety and continuity of care.
Using simple sentences for key instructions (e.g., 'Take this medicine with food.') can improve patient adherence and understanding.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the structure of the original sentence. 'We must eat, or we cannot live' has two independent clauses ('We must eat', 'we cannot live') joined by the coordinating conjunction 'or'. This makes it a compound sentence.
Next, understand the goal: to create a simple sentence. A simple sentence must have only one independent clause (one main subject-verb combination).
Analyze the relationship between the two clauses. The second clause ('we cannot live') explains the purpose or consequence related to the first clause ('We must eat').
Evaluate the options to see which one correctly forms a simple sentence that preserves the original meaning. An infinitive phrase ('to + verb') is a common way to express purpose within a single clause.
Check each option against the definition of a simple sentence. Option C, 'We must eat to live,' is the only choice that contains a single independent clause, making it the correct answer.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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Practise the full NVS Staff Nurse - 2019

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