Non-defining clauses (also called non-restrictive relative clauses) provide additional details about a noun or pronoun already mentioned. They are not essential to identify the noun; the sentence still makes sense if the clause is removed. In Spanish, these clauses are set off by commas, and the relative pronoun que or quien/quienes is used. The key is that the information is extra or parenthetical.
Key Features
- Always use commas to set off the clause.
- Cannot be introduced by que without a preceding preposition; use quien (for people).
- The verb within the clause agrees with the relative pronoun.
- The main sentence remains complete if the clause is removed.
Usage
Non-defining clauses add extra, non-essential information.
Additional Information
- They give background, examples, or side notes.
- The sentence still makes sense if you remove the clause.
Introduced by Relative Pronouns
- que (things)
- quien/quienes (people; must use preposition)
- cuyo/cuya/cuyos/cuyas (possession)
Always Use Commas
- Non-defining clauses are always set off by commas in Spanish.
Usage Tips
- Use non-defining clauses to add color, details, or examples.
- Don’t use them to identify or limit the noun (that’s what defining clauses do).
- Remember to include commas before and after the clause.
Examples
| Spanish Non-defining Clause | English Non-defining Clause |
|---|---|
| Mi hermana, que vive en Madrid, es doctora. | My sister, who lives in Madrid, is a doctor. |
| Carlos, que es muy alto, juega al baloncesto. | Carlos, who is very tall, plays basketball. |
| La novela, que ganó un premio, está en la biblioteca. | The novel, which won a prize, is in the library. |
| Mi amigo Juan, con quien viajé a Perú, llegó ayer. | My friend Juan, with whom I traveled to Peru, arrived yesterday. |
Additional Notes
- Use quien/quienes (with commas) when referring to people, especially after prepositions like con.
- You can use cuyo/a(s) to show possession in a non-defining clause.
- The information in non-defining clauses is always extra, never essential.
Summary
Non-defining clauses provide extra information, are set off by commas, and use que, quien, or cuyo. The main sentence would still be complete and clear if you removed the clause.
Flashcards (1 of 4)
- English Non-defining Clause: My sister, who lives in Madrid, is a doctor.
Last updated: Wed Jun 18, 2025
