Declarative Sentence
Declarative sentences are the standard statement form in English. Cambridge defines a declarative sentence as one that makes a statement or states a fact, while grammar references also note that declarative clause form can sometimes perform other communicative functions in context.
A declarative sentence is a sentence used to make a statement or state a fact. It is the ordinary statement-form sentence, distinct from interrogative, imperative, and exclamative clause types.
Key details
Important caveats
Scope Boundary
Do not assume every declarative form must end in a calm factual statement: declaratives can be used pragmatically for questions or requests, and an exclamation mark does not automatically change clause type.
Further guidance
Application
Use declarative structure for ordinary statements, explanations, descriptions, and assertions; punctuation and communicative force can vary by context.
Core Rule
A declarative sentence makes a statement or states a fact; declarative clauses most commonly function as statements.
Practical Application
Use the declarative form when the sentence’s job is to state information. Distinguish that communicative function from a question, command, or exclamation rather than classifying solely by punctuation.
Reader Check
Is the clause making a statement rather than asking, directing, or exclaiming?
Worked Example
“The report is ready.” is declarative. “Is the report ready?” is interrogative, and “Send the report.” is imperative.
Sources and evidence
Sources are shown with the role they play in this guide. Historical or style-sensitive claims are kept within the evidence boundary described above.
- Declarative sentence — Cambridge Dictionary (opens in a new tab)Cambridge University Press · Direct dictionary/grammar evidence defining a declarative sentence as one that makes a statement or states a fact.