Relative or adjective clauses are subordinate clauses that provide additional information about a noun in the main clause. These clauses begin with a relative pronoun (such as “who,” “whom,” “whose,” “which,” or “that”) or a relative adverb (such as “where,” “when,” or “why”). Relative clauses function to add detail or describe a specific element within the sentence.
Key characteristics of relative clauses:
- Relative Pronouns: Common relative pronouns include “who,” “whom,” “whose,” “which,” and “that.”
Example: The person who called you is waiting outside.
- Relative Adverbs: Relative adverbs, such as “where,” “when,” and “why,” can introduce relative clauses that provide additional information about place, time, or reason.
Example: This is the city where I was born.
- Modifying Nouns: Relative clauses modify or describe a specific noun in the main clause.
Example: The book that is on the shelf is mine.
Restrictive vs. Non-restrictive:
- Restrictive Relative Clause: Essential to the sentence’s meaning. It doesn’t use commas.
Example: The woman who is wearing a red hat is my sister.
- Non-restrictive Relative Clause: This clause adds extra information that is not crucial to the sentence’s meaning. It is set off by commas.
Example: My sister, who is wearing a red hat, just arrived.
- Omission of Relative Pronouns: In some cases, relative pronouns can be omitted, especially when the clause modifies the object of the verb.
Example: The book (that) you recommended is excellent.
Conclusion
Relative clauses allow for more detailed and specific descriptions within a sentence, providing additional context and clarifying the relationships between different elements.