Defining & Non - Defining Relative Clauses

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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 helps to identify which person or thing we are talking about. Example: 'The book that I borrowed was interesting.'

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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 understand the sentence. It is usually set off by commas. Example: 'My brother, who lives in New York, is visiting us.'

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What is the function of the word 'where' in a relative clause?

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'Where' is used to refer to a place in a relative clause. Example: 'This is the restaurant where we had dinner.'

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What is the function of the word 'which' in a relative clause?

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'Which' is used to provide additional information about a thing in a relative clause. Example: 'The car, which is red, belongs to my sister.'

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What is the function of the word 'that' in a relative clause?

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'That' is used in defining relative clauses to specify which person or thing we are talking about. Example: 'The movie that we watched was thrilling.'

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What is the function of the word 'who' in a relative clause?

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'Who' is used to refer to people in a relative clause. Example: 'The teacher who taught me is retiring.'

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How do you punctuate a non-defining relative clause?

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Non-defining relative clauses are set off by commas. Example: 'My dog, which is very friendly, loves to play.'

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Can a defining relative clause stand alone as a complete sentence?

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No, a defining relative clause cannot stand alone as a complete sentence; it must be part of a larger sentence.

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Can a non-defining relative clause stand alone as a complete sentence?

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No, a non-defining relative clause cannot stand alone as a complete sentence; it must be part of a larger sentence.

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

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Example: 'The students who study hard will pass the exam.'