Clauses and who/that/which flashcard

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What is a clause?

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A clause is a group of words that contains a subject and a verb. It can express a complete thought (independent clause) or an incomplete thought (dependent clause).

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What is an essential clause?

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An essential clause (or restrictive clause) provides vital information that is necessary to understand the meaning of the sentence. It is not set off by commas.

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What is a nonessential clause?

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A nonessential clause (or nonrestrictive clause) adds supplementary information to a sentence but is not necessary for the sentence's meaning. It is set off by commas.

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How are nonessential clauses typically punctuated?

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Nonessential clauses are typically punctuated with commas.

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What role does 'that' play in a sentence?

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The word 'that' can introduce a restrictive clause, providing essential information about the noun it follows.

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What role does 'which' play in a sentence?

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The word 'which' typically introduces a nonrestrictive clause, providing additional information that is not essential to the meaning of the sentence.

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What is another name for a nonessential clause?

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Another name for a nonessential clause is a nonrestrictive clause.

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What type of information do essential clauses add?

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Essential clauses add vital information that is necessary to identify the noun they modify.

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What is the purpose of a nonessential clause?

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The purpose of a nonessential clause is to add supplementary information that can be omitted without changing the main meaning of the sentence.

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Can a sentence have both essential and nonessential clauses?

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Yes, a sentence can have both essential and nonessential clauses, but they serve different purposes.