Non Defining and Defining Relative Clauses

Front

What is a defining relative clause?

Back

A defining relative clause provides essential information about the noun it modifies, helping to identify which person or thing is being referred to. It is not set off by commas.

Front

What is a non-defining relative clause?

Back

A non-defining relative clause adds extra information about a noun that is already identified. It is set off by commas and does not change the overall meaning of the sentence.

Front

What is the purpose of relative pronouns?

Back

Relative pronouns (who, whom, whose, which, that) introduce relative clauses and connect them to the main clause, providing more information about a noun.

Front

Can 'who' be used to refer to things?

Back

No, 'who' is used exclusively for people. For things, 'which' or 'that' should be used.

Front

What is the difference between 'who' and 'whom'?

Back

'Who' is used as the subject of a verb, while 'whom' is used as the object of a verb or preposition.

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How do you identify a defining relative clause in a sentence?

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A defining relative clause can be identified by checking if the clause is essential to the meaning of the sentence. If removing it changes the meaning, it is defining.

Front

How do you identify a non-defining relative clause in a sentence?

Back

A non-defining relative clause can be identified by its use of commas and the fact that it adds extra information that is not essential to the meaning of the sentence.

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What is an example of a sentence with a defining relative clause?

Back

The book that I borrowed from you is fascinating.

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What is an example of a sentence with a non-defining relative clause?

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My brother, who lives in New York, is visiting us next week.

Front

What happens if you remove a non-defining relative clause from a sentence?

Back

Removing a non-defining relative clause does not change the fundamental meaning of the sentence; it only removes additional information.