Restrictive vs Non-Restrictive Clauses

Restrictive and Nonrestrictive clauses

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Restrictive Elemens/clauses

Information that is necessary in order for a reader to identify exactly who or what is being discussed.

Restrictive information is not set off with commas.

example :

The teacher who is retiring is being honored with an award on Friday.

The underlined restrictive clause helps a reader identify which teacher is being honored.

example:

The teacher is being honored with an award on Friday.

Without the restrictive clause, a reader doesn't know which teacher is being honored.

Non - Restrictive element

information that is supplemental;

it is not necessary in order for a reader to identify who or what is being discussed.

Nonrestrictive information is always set off with commas.

The Golden Gate Bridge, which first opened in 1937, took over four years to build.

Multiple Choice

The astronaut who first stepped on the moon was Neil Armstrong.

• restrictive element

• non restrictive element

Multiple Choice

Kaylee, who just graduated from high school, is an accomplished figure skater.

• restrictive clause

• nonrestrictive clause

Multiple Choice

What does the following sentence suggest?

The guest lecturer, Kelly Middleton, will address the following question: would high-speed rail solve America's transportation problems?

• There is only one guest Lecture

• There is more than one guest Lecture