Relative Clauses

Adding Information with Who/Which/That

Sections
Introduction

1. Definition & Core Meaning

Relative clauses give more info about a noun.

1. Defining (Necessary):

  • Tells us which one. No commas.
  • "The man who called yesterday is here."

2. Non-Defining (Extra info):

  • Just adds detail. Needs commas.
  • "My brother, who lives in London, is a doctor."

Pronouns:

  • Person: Who / Whom / Whose
  • Thing: Which / That
  • Place: Where
  • Time: When

What is it?
Adding Information with Who/Which/That

2. Use Cases

  1. Identifying People/Things: "The book that I'm reading is great."
  2. Adding Extra Information: "My car, which is 10 years old, still runs well."
  3. Specifying Places and Times: "The city where I was born is small."
  4. Showing Possession: "The woman whose son I know is a teacher."

3. When to Use It (Time Expressions/Signals)

  • Defining Clauses: Use when the information is essential to identify the noun.
  • Non-defining Clauses: Use when the information is extra and can be removed without changing the core meaning.

[!NOTE]
Review the examples and rules closely to understand the context.

4. How to Use It (Rules)

  • Defining = No commas
  • Non-Defining = Commas required
  • Cannot use "that" in non-defining clauses (use "which")