Types of Relative Clauses

There are two main types of relative clauses: defining and non-defining.

Defining Relative Clauses

Defining relative clauses, also known as restrictive clauses, are necessary to identify the noun they modify. They add essential information without which the sentence would be unclear or ambiguous.

Here’s an example:

The book that I bought yesterday is fascinating.

In this sentence, the defining relative clause “that I bought yesterday” helps to specify which book the speaker is referring to. Without this clause, the reader wouldn’t know which book the speaker finds fascinating.

Non-defining Relative Clauses

Non-defining relative clauses, or non-restrictive clauses, provide additional information about a noun that is not essential for understanding the sentence. They are usually set off by commas to indicate that they are extra information.

Take a look at this example:

My friend Sarah, who lives in London, is visiting me next week.

In this case, the non-defining relative clause “who lives in London” adds extra information about Sarah, but it is not essential to understand the main point of the sentence. Even without the clause, we know that the speaker’s friend Sarah is visiting next week.

Relative Pronouns

Relative pronouns introduce relative clauses and refer back to the noun or pronoun that the clause is providing information about. There are several relative pronouns, each with specific uses.

Who, Whom, Which, and That

• Who is used for people as the subject of the relative clause.
  • Example: The woman who found my wallet is a kind person.
• Whom is used for people as the object of the relative clause. However, in informal speech, “who” is often used instead of “whom.”
  • Example: The man to whom I gave the letter is my neighbor.
• Which is used for things or animals.
  • Example: The car which I bought last year is very reliable.
• That can replace “who,” “whom,” or “which” in defining relative clauses, but not in non-defining clauses.
  • Example: The restaurant that we visited last week has closed down.

Whose

Whose is used to indicate possession for both people and things.

• Example: The artist whose paintings we saw at the exhibition is very talented.

Where and When

• Where is used to refer to places.
  • Example: The town where I grew up has changed a lot.
• When is used to refer to times or dates.
  • Example: I remember the day when we first met.

How to Use Relative Clauses Correctly

1. Identify whether the relative clause is defining or non-defining and punctuate accordingly. Remember that non-defining clauses require commas, while defining clauses do not.
2. Choose the appropriate relative pronoun based on the noun being modified and the function of the pronoun within the relative clause.
3. Ensure that the relative clause is placed immediately after the noun it modifies.

Common Errors and How to Avoid Them

1. Misusing or omitting commas: Be mindful of whether you are using a defining or non-defining relative clause and punctuate accordingly.
2. Using the wrong relative pronoun: Review the functions of each relative pronoun and select the correct one for your sentence.
3. Misplacing the relative clause: Always place the relative clause directly after the noun it modifies to avoid confusion.

Practice Exercises

1. Combine the following sentences using appropriate relative clauses:
   • The book is on the shelf. I read it last month.
   • The woman is my teacher. You met her yesterday.
   • The house has a red door. I was born there.
2. Correct the errors in these sentences:
   • The man who’s car was stolen called the police.
   • The students whom passed the exam celebrated together.
   • The movie which I wanted to see, was sold out.

Conclusion

Relative clauses are a powerful tool in English grammar, allowing you to add essential or supplemental information to your sentences. By understanding the different types of relative clauses and the proper use of relative pronouns, you can elevate your writing and communication skills. Keep practicing and applying these concepts to master the art of using relative clauses effectively.

You can practice Relative Clauses Exercises here