Review Restrictive vs. Non Restrictive Clauses

Front

What is a restrictive clause?

Back

A restrictive clause is a part of a sentence that provides essential information about the noun it modifies. It is necessary for understanding the meaning of the sentence and is not set off by commas.

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What is a nonrestrictive clause?

Back

A nonrestrictive clause adds extra information to a sentence but is not essential to its meaning. It is set off by commas.

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Example of a restrictive clause in a sentence.

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The book that I borrowed from the library is fascinating.

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Example of a nonrestrictive clause in a sentence.

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

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How do you punctuate a nonrestrictive clause?

Back

Nonrestrictive clauses are set off by commas.

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How do you punctuate a restrictive clause?

Back

Restrictive clauses are not set off by commas.

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What is the purpose of a restrictive clause?

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To provide essential information that defines or restricts the noun it modifies.

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What is the purpose of a nonrestrictive clause?

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To provide additional information that can be omitted without changing the main meaning of the sentence.

Front

Identify the clause: 'The car that is parked outside is mine.'

Back

Restrictive clause.

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Identify the clause: 'My sister, who is a doctor, lives in California.'

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Nonrestrictive clause.