In this lesson, we will explore the use of relative pronouns in English, focusing specifically on when they are optional and when they are required. By the end of this module, you will have a clear understanding of how to use relative pronouns effectively in your sentences.
What Are Relative Pronouns?
Relative pronouns are words that connect a noun or pronoun to a clause that provides more information about it. They help us create more complex and detailed sentences. Common relative pronouns include:
- Who
- Whom
- Whose
- Which
- That
When Are Relative Pronouns Required?
Relative pronouns are required when they serve as the subject or object of the relative clause. Without them, the sentence would be incomplete or unclear.
Examples:
| Sentence with Required Relative Pronoun | Explanation |
|---|---|
| The book that I borrowed is very interesting. | “That” is required because it introduces the relative clause “I borrowed.” |
| The man who lives next door is a doctor. | “Who” is required because it introduces the relative clause “lives next door.” |
- The book that I borrowed is very interesting.
- The man who lives next door is a doctor.
When Are Relative Pronouns Optional?
Relative pronouns can be optional when they serve as the object of the relative clause. In such cases, the sentence remains grammatically correct even if the relative pronoun is omitted.
Examples:
| Sentence with Optional Relative Pronoun | Simplified Version |
|---|---|
| The movie (that) I watched was amazing. | The movie I watched was amazing. |
| The cake (which) she baked was delicious. | The cake she baked was delicious. |
- The movie that I watched was amazing.
- The cake which she baked was delicious.
Key Rule:
- If the relative pronoun is the object of the clause, it can often be omitted.
- If the relative pronoun is the subject of the clause, it cannot be omitted.
Special Cases: “Whose” and “Whom”
1. Whose
“Whose” is used to show possession. It is always required when indicating ownership.
| Example Sentence | Explanation |
|---|---|
| The girl whose bag was stolen is upset. | “Whose” indicates possession (the bag belongs to the girl). |
- The girl whose bag was stolen is upset.
2. Whom
“Whom” is used as the object of a verb or preposition. While it is formal and less common in spoken English, it is still important to recognize.
| Example Sentence | Explanation |
|---|---|
| The teacher whom we admire is retiring. | “Whom” is the object of the verb “admire.” |
- The teacher whom we admire is retiring.
Summary Table: Required vs. Optional Relative Pronouns
| Relative Pronoun | Required When… | Optional When… |
|---|---|---|
| Who | Subject of the clause | Object of the clause |
| Whom | Object of the clause (formal) | N/A (rarely optional) |
| Whose | Showing possession | N/A (always required) |
| Which | Subject of the clause | Object of the clause |
| That | Subject of the clause | Object of the clause |
Final Tips for Using Relative Pronouns
- Always determine whether the relative pronoun is the subject or object of the clause.
- Remember that “whose” is always required for possession.
- Practice identifying optional pronouns to simplify your sentences.