Which of the following best describes a compound-complex sentence?

A compound-complex sentence is characterized by containing at least two independent clauses and at least one dependent clause. Independent clauses can stand alone as complete sentences, while dependent clauses cannot; they add additional information to the sentence but rely on the independent clauses for meaning.

In this case, the chosen answer correctly identifies the structure of a compound-complex sentence. This type of sentence allows for more complex ideas and relationships to be expressed within a single sentence, making writing richer and more nuanced.

The other options do not fit the definition of a compound-complex sentence. A sentence with only one independent clause suggests a simple sentence, while a sentence with no dependent clauses is neither compound nor complex. Lastly, a simple and straightforward sentence implies a lack of complexity, which directly contradicts the characteristics of a compound-complex sentence.