relative pronouns

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What is a relative pronoun?

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A relative pronoun is a word that introduces a relative clause and connects it to a noun or pronoun. Examples include 'who', 'which', and 'that'.

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When do we use 'who'?

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We use 'who' to refer to people. For example: 'The teacher who helps us is very kind.'

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When do we use 'which'?

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We use 'which' to refer to animals or things. For example: 'The book which I read was exciting.'

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When do we use 'that'?

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We use 'that' to refer to people, animals, or things, often in defining clauses. For example: 'The car that is parked outside is mine.'

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What is a defining relative clause?

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A defining relative clause gives essential information about the noun it modifies. For example: 'The student who studies hard will succeed.'

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What is a non-defining relative clause?

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A non-defining relative clause adds extra information about a noun but is not essential to the meaning. For example: 'My brother, who lives in London, is visiting us.'

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

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'Who' is used as a subject, while 'whom' is used as an object. For example: 'Who is coming?' vs. 'To whom should I give this?'.

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Can 'that' be used instead of 'who'?

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Yes, 'that' can be used instead of 'who' when referring to people in defining clauses. For example: 'The girl that won the race is my friend.'

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What is the role of 'whose'?

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'Whose' is a relative pronoun used to show possession. For example: 'The girl whose bike was stolen is sad.'

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How do you punctuate non-defining relative clauses?

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Non-defining relative clauses are separated by commas. For example: 'My sister, who is a doctor, lives in New York.'