What Are Defining Clauses
Defining clauses are essential clauses that provide necessary information to identify the noun they modify. Without these clauses, the meaning of the sentence would be incomplete or unclear. They are also called restrictive relative clauses because they restrict or limit the noun's reference.
Use of Defining Clauses
Defining clauses give specific details about a person, thing, or idea mentioned earlier in the sentence. For example, in "The man who is wearing a hat is my uncle," the defining clause "who is wearing a hat" tells us exactly which man is being referred to.
Relative Pronouns in Defining Clauses
Common relative pronouns used in defining clauses are who, which, that, whom, and whose. They connect the clause to the noun it modifies and introduce the information essential for definition.
Punctuation in Defining Clauses
Defining clauses are not set off by commas because they are integral to the meaning of the sentence. The absence of commas signals that the clause is essential.
Examples of Defining Clauses
- The book that you gave me is fascinating.
- The person who called yesterday is my cousin.
- Cars which use electric power are becoming more popular.
Differences from Non-defining Clauses
Unlike defining clauses, non-defining clauses provide extra information that can be omitted without changing the sentence's main meaning. Non-defining clauses are separated by commas and often use which, who, or whose.
Summary
Defining clauses are crucial parts of sentences that specify exactly which person, thing, or idea the speaker is referring to, using relative pronouns without commas. Mastering their use improves clarity and precision in communication.
