Relative Clause
A relative clause, also known as an adjective clause, is a type of dependent clause that functions as an adjective within a sentence. It provides additional information about a noun or pronoun in the main clause. Relative clauses usually begin with relative pronouns such as "who," "whom," "whose," "which," or "that," and they serve to modify nouns or pronouns. Here are the different types of relative clauses with examples for each:
Defining Relative Clause: Examples:
Provides essential information that defines or specifies the noun it modifies.
Often introduced by relative pronouns like "who," "whom," "whose," "which," or "that."
Not set off by commas.
Non-Defining Relative Clause: Examples:
Provides additional, non-essential information about the noun it modifies.
Set off by commas.
Often introduced by relative pronouns like "who," "whom," "whose," "which," or "that."
Restrictive Relative Clause: Examples:
Essential for understanding the meaning of the sentence.
Limits the scope of the noun it modifies.
Usually introduced by relative pronouns like "who," "whom," "whose," "which," or "that."
Non-Restrictive Relative Clause: Examples:
Provides additional information about the noun it modifies but is not necessary for the sentence's basic meaning.
Enclosed in commas.
Often introduced by relative pronouns like "who," "whom," "whose," "which," or "that."
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