English Grammar: Defining Clauses

Defining Clauses

• A defining clause, also known as a restrictive clause, provides essential information about the noun it modifies.
• It tells us which specific person or thing is being referred to.
• Defining clauses are not separated from the main clause by commas.
• They are usually introduced by the relative pronouns:
  • who (for people)
  • which (for animals and things)
  • that (for people, animals, and things)
• Examples:
  • The book that is on the table is mine.
  • The student who is sitting in the front row is very smart.

Non-defining Clauses

• A non-defining clause, also known as a non-restrictive clause, provides additional information about the noun it modifies.
• It adds extra details about the noun, but does not specify which one is being referred to.
• Non-defining clauses are separated from the main clause by commas.
• They are usually introduced by the relative pronouns:
  • who (for people)
  • which (for animals and things)
  • whose (for possession)
• Examples:
  • The teacher, who is standing at the board, is explaining the lesson.
  • The book, which is on the shelf, is my favorite novel.

Note: The difference between defining and non-defining clauses lies in the use of commas and the type of information provided. Defining clauses are essential to the sentence's meaning, while non-defining clauses add extra information.

Defining Clauses

• Provide essential information about the noun they modify, specifying which person or thing is being referred to.
• Introduced by relative pronouns:
  • who (for people)
  • which (for animals and things)
  • that (for people, animals, and things)
• Not separated from the main clause by commas.
• Examples:
  • The book that is on the table is mine.
  • The student who is sitting in the front row is very smart.

Non-defining Clauses

• Provide additional information about the noun they modify, adding extra details.
• Separated from the main clause by commas.
• Introduced by relative pronouns:
  • who (for people)
  • which (for animals and things)
  • whose (for possession)
• Examples:
  • The teacher, who is standing at the board, is explaining the lesson.
  • The book, which is on the shelf, is my favorite novel.
• Difference between defining and non-defining clauses:
  • Defining clauses are essential to the sentence's meaning.
  • Non-defining clauses add extra information.
  • Use of commas distinguishes between the two types.

Learn about defining clauses in English grammar, including their function, characteristics, and examples. Understand how to identify and use defining clauses effectively in sentences.