In this lesson, we will explore the differences between defining and non-defining relative clauses. These are essential tools in English grammar that help us provide additional information about nouns in a clear and concise way.
What Are Relative Clauses?
Relative clauses are parts of a sentence that give extra information about a noun. They are introduced by relative pronouns such as:
| Relative Pronoun | Example |
|---|---|
| Who | The woman who is wearing the red dress is my aunt. |
| Whom | The man whom I met yesterday is very kind. |
| Which | The book which I borrowed from the library is fascinating. |
| That | The car that is parked outside belongs to my neighbor. |
| Whose | The boy whose bike was stolen is very upset. |
Types of Relative Clauses
There are two main types of relative clauses: defining and non-defining. Let’s break them down.
1. Defining Relative Clauses
Defining relative clauses give essential information to identify the noun they describe. Without this clause, the meaning of the sentence would be unclear.Key Features:
- No commas are used.
- The information provided is necessary for understanding the sentence.
- The relative pronoun “that” can often replace “who” or “which.”
Examples:
- The girl who lives next door is a doctor.
- The dog that barked all night kept me awake.
- The movie which we watched last night was amazing.
2. Non-Defining Relative Clauses
Non-defining relative clauses provide extra, non-essential information about the noun. The sentence remains clear even without this clause.Key Features:
- Commas are used to separate the clause from the main sentence.
- The relative pronoun “that” cannot be used.
- Often used in formal or written English.
Examples:
- My brother, who lives in New York, is visiting us next week.
- The Eiffel Tower, which is located in Paris, is a famous landmark.
- Mrs. Johnson, whose son is a lawyer, teaches at our school.
Comparison Table: Defining vs. Non-Defining Relative Clauses
| Feature | Defining Relative Clause | Non-Defining Relative Clause |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Identifies the noun (essential information). | Adds extra details (non-essential information). |
| Commas | No commas are used. | Commas are used to separate the clause. |
| Use of “That” | Can use “that” instead of “who” or “which.” | Cannot use “that.” |
| Formality | Common in spoken and informal English. | More common in formal or written English. |
| Example | The house that has a red door is mine. | My house, which has a red door, is near the park. |
Tips for Using Relative Clauses
- Always pay attention to whether the information is essential or extra.
- Use commas correctly to avoid confusion.
- Practice identifying and writing both types of clauses to improve your fluency.
Practice Games
Lesson Practice
Pages: 1 2