Relative Clauses
Introduction
Relative clauses are an essential part of English grammar, providing additional information about a noun in a sentence. They help to clarify, define, or give more details about the noun, making sentences more informative and precise.
Structure
Relative clauses are introduced by relative pronouns such as who, which, or that. These clauses are connected to the main clause and cannot stand alone as complete sentences.
Function
Relative clauses function as adjectives, describing or modifying the noun that precedes them. They can specify "which one" or "what kind" of noun is being talked about.
Examples
- Who: Used for people.
- Which: Used for animals and things.
- That: Used for people, animals, and things (especially in defining clauses).
Types of Relative Clauses
Defining Relative Clauses
- Definition: These clauses provide essential information about the noun. Without the relative clause, the meaning of the sentence would be incomplete or unclear.
- Example: The car that he drives is very fast.
- (The clause "that he drives" is essential to know which car is being referred to.)
Non-defining Relative Clauses
- Definition: These clauses add extra information about the noun, which is not essential to the meaning of the sentence. Non-defining clauses are always set off by commas.
- Example: My sister, who lives in New York, is a lawyer.
- (The clause "who lives in New York" provides additional, non-essential information about "my sister.")
Key Differences
| Relative Pronoun | Use | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Who | Refers to people | The woman who called you is my aunt. |
| Which | Refers to things or animals | The cake, which was delicious, is gone. |
| That | Refers to people, things, or animals | The dog that barked all night is mine. |
Usage Tips
- Omission of "That": In defining relative clauses, the relative pronoun "that" can sometimes be omitted when it functions as the object of the clause:
- Non-defining Clauses: Do not use "that" in non-defining relative clauses. Use "which" or "who" instead.
- Commas in Non-defining Clauses: Always use commas to set off non-defining relative clauses.
Conclusion
Relative clauses are a powerful tool in English, allowing speakers and writers to add clarity and detail to their sentences. By using who, which, and that, you can provide crucial information about the nouns you’re discussing, making your communication more precise and engaging.