Defining & Non - Defining Relative Clauses

Front

What is a defining relative clause?

Back

A defining relative clause provides essential information about the noun it modifies, helping to identify which person or thing is being referred to. It is not set off by commas.

Front

What is a non-defining relative clause?

Back

A non-defining relative clause adds extra information about a noun that is already identified. It is set off by commas and does not change the fundamental meaning of the sentence.

Front

What relative pronoun is used for people in defining relative clauses?

Back

The relative pronoun 'who' is used for people in defining relative clauses.

Front

What relative pronoun is used for things in defining relative clauses?

Back

The relative pronoun 'that' is commonly used for things in defining relative clauses.

Front

What relative pronoun is used to indicate possession?

Back

The relative pronoun 'whose' is used to indicate possession in relative clauses.

Front

What relative pronoun is used to refer to places?

Back

The relative pronoun 'where' is used to refer to places in relative clauses.

Front

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

Back

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

Front

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

Back

Yes, a non-defining relative clause can stand alone as a complete sentence because it adds additional information to an already complete thought.

Front

What punctuation is used with non-defining relative clauses?

Back

Non-defining relative clauses are set off by commas.

Front

What is the difference in meaning between 'My car, which is very expensive, is a Mercedes Benz.' and 'My car that is very expensive is a Mercedes Benz.'?

Back

The first sentence (non-defining) implies that the speaker has only one car, and the clause adds extra information. The second sentence (defining) suggests that the speaker may have multiple cars, and the clause specifies which one.