5.1
Defining and Non-Defining Relative Clauses
Definition
Relative Clauses
- Give extra information about a noun in the main clause.
- They can be combined with the main clause by means of relative pronouns, i.e. the relative clauses are introduced by relative pronouns.
Relative Pronouns
- Who (for people)
- Which (for things)
- That (for people and things)
- Where (for places)
- When (for time)
- Why (for reasons)
- Whose (for possessions)
Those who hesitate are lost.
It’s a book which we haven’t read yet.
She walked along the street that led to the shopping centre.
It’s difficult to find my keys where I had left them.
She was having breakfast when the telephone rang.
I am wondering why they didn’t come to the party.
I don’ t know whose keys Jane has found.
Definition
Defining Relative Clauses
- Give important information that is indispensable for the meaning of the whole sentence, tell exactly who or what is being talked about.
- Relative pronouns can be omitted in case of the object clauses. In case of the subject clauses, the relative pronouns cannot be omitted.
- Can use the relative pronoun that.
- In defining relative clauses, commas are not used to separate the information in writing, intonation is not used to separate the information in speaking.
The footballers (that/who) we are going to play against are experienced sportsmen. (object relative clause)
The exhibition (that/which) we have the opportunity of visiting will finish in May. (object relative clause)
We are taking the bus that/which leaves at 8.30. (subject relative clause)
Definition
Non-Defining Relative Clauses
- Add extra information that is not necessary for the meaning of the whole sentence and that can be omitted.
- Relative pronouns cannot be left out in non-defining relative clauses.
- Cannot use the relative pronoun that.
- Commas are used to separate the extra information in writing, intonation in speaking.
William Shakespeare, whose wife was Anne Hathaway, is famous for his comedies and tragedies.
Mary told me about her new job, which she enjoys very much.
George, who works for a company of architects, has been invited to the party too.
Interesting
Which = což (čehož, čímž, atd.)
Which introduces the Non-Defining Relative Clause and it is related to the whole main clause that precedes the Relative Clause:
He recommended me to stake all my money, which was unreasonable. (= což bylo nerozumné)
Interesting
Relative Pronouns with Prepositions
That cannot be used after a preposition.
Whom is the object form of who. It is used after a preposition.
There is a book (that{which) I paid £120 for. (everyday speech)
There is a book for which I paid £120. (formal speech)
This is the person (that) I have given my book to. (everyday speech)
This is the person to whom I have given my book. (formal speech)
Interesting
What
What is not related to the noun or pronoun of the main clause. It introduces the subject and object relative clause.
What you can do today don’t put off till tomorrow. (object relative clause)
What interests my son is playing football? (subject relative clause)
Select the most suitable relative pronoun in each sentence, or leave the space blank where it is possible.
Sara passed all her exams, _____ made her parents happy.
He refused to speak to me, _____ was very rude of him.
The postman, _____ is the man of fifty, comes five times a week.
What's that music _____ we are listening to?