Defining and Non-defining Relative Clauses

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What are relative pronouns?

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Relative pronouns are words that introduce relative clauses and relate to a noun mentioned previously. Examples include WHO, WHICH, THAT, WHOSE, WHERE, and WHY.

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What is a defining relative clause?

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A defining relative clause provides essential information about the noun it modifies. It is necessary for understanding the sentence's meaning.

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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 sentence's meaning. It is usually set off by commas.

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Example of a defining relative clause:

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The book that I borrowed from you is fascinating.

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Example of a non-defining relative clause:

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

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Can 'that' be used in non-defining relative clauses?

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No, 'that' cannot be used in non-defining relative clauses; 'which' or 'who' should be used instead.

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What does the relative pronoun 'who' refer to?

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The relative pronoun 'who' refers to people.

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What does the relative pronoun 'which' refer to?

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The relative pronoun 'which' refers to animals and things.

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What does the relative pronoun 'whose' indicate?

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The relative pronoun 'whose' indicates possession.

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Identify the relative pronoun in this sentence: 'The car, which is red, belongs to my sister.'

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The relative pronoun is 'which'.