A relative clause gives more information about a noun in a sentence. It usually starts with a relative pronoun: who (for people), which (for things), or that (for people or things). For example:
- The man who called you is my uncle.
- I like the book which you gave me.
- She found the keys that she lost.
Relative clauses can be defining (giving essential information) or non-defining (adding extra details). Non-defining clauses are separated by commas:
- My brother, who lives in London, is coming to visit.
Understanding relative clauses helps make your English more fluent and descriptive!
B1
Table of Contents
- Defining Clauses
Definition of defining clauses, their role in English grammar, and how they specify or limit the meaning of a noun.
- Non-defining Clauses
Non-defining clauses are a type of relative clause that provides extra information about a noun without changing the overall meaning of the sentence. They are always separated by commas.
Last updated: Wed Jun 18, 2025
