Which phrase best describes a simple sentence?

A simple sentence is defined as a construction that contains only one independent clause. An independent clause is a group of words that contains a subject and a verb and expresses a complete thought. This structure signifies that there are no additional clauses – neither dependent nor independent – that complicate the sentence.

In contrast, other phrases describe different grammatical constructs. For instance, a compound thought with conjunctions implies the presence of more than one clause, specifically multiple independent clauses linked by conjunctions. A series of dependent clauses denotes a structure that relies on independent clauses for meaning, which is not characteristic of a simple sentence. Finally, while a question or command can be expressed in a simple sentence, it is not exclusive to this type; in fact, both simple sentences and other structures can serve as questions or commands. Therefore, the defining feature of a simple sentence is its single independent clause, making the choice that states it contains only one independent clause the most accurate description.