Defining clauses, also known as restrictive relative clauses, are used to pinpoint exactly which person or thing is meant. Without these clauses, the sentence would be incomplete or unclear.
Role of Defining Clauses
Defining clauses specify which noun the speaker is talking about by providing necessary information. They cannot be omitted without changing the meaning of the sentence.
Defining clauses always immediately follow the noun they describe.
How Defining Clauses Work
Use que for "that/who/which," quien(es) for "who" when referring to people (usually after prepositions), and el que/la que/los que/las que for more formal or specific cases.
No commas are used around defining clauses.
Examples
- El libro que estoy leyendo es muy interesante. (The book that I am reading is very interesting.)
- La mujer que vive al lado es doctora. (The woman who lives next door is a doctor.)
- Los estudiantes que llegaron tarde tendrán que quedarse. (The students who arrived late will have to stay.)
Summary
- Use defining clauses to specify exactly who or what you mean.
- They are introduced by relative pronouns like que, quien(es), or el que/la que.
- They are essential for the sentence’s meaning and cannot be left out.
- No commas are used to set them apart.
What is the summary of how to use defining clauses?
Use them to specify exactly who or what you mean, with pronouns like que or quien(es), without commas.
Defining clauses specify the exact noun, use specific pronouns, and are not offset by commas.
Last updated: Wed Jun 18, 2025
