Adjective clauses

Understanding Adjective Clauses

An adjective clause—also known as a relative clause—is a group of words that describes or gives more information about a noun or pronoun in a sentence. Just like adjectives, adjective clauses provide details such as what kind, which one, or how many.

What Is an Adjective Clause?

An adjective clause is a dependent group of words that describes or gives more information about a noun in a sentence. It typically begins with a relative pronoun such as who, whom, whose, that, or which. Sometimes it may also start with a relative adverb like when, where, or why.

Structure of an Adjective Clause

An adjective clause always contains a subject and a verb and connects directly to the noun or pronoun it modifies. It cannot operate independently as a full sentence.

• Relative Pronoun or Adverb – introduces the clause (e.g., who, that, which)
• Subject – may or may not be the same as the relative pronoun
• Verb – forms the predicate of the clause

Examples of Adjective Clauses

• The book which you gave me was incredibly interesting.
• Students who study regularly often perform better.
• She visited the museum where the painting was displayed.
• This is the house which Jack built.

Types of Adjective Clauses

Adjective clauses are generally divided into two main types:

1. Restrictive Clauses – Offer necessary details about the noun and do not use commas for separation.
   Example: The car that he bought last week is already having issues.
2. Non-restrictive Clauses – Add extra information and are separated by commas.
   Example: My brother, who resides in Canada, will be coming to visit next month.

Why Use Adjective Clauses?

• Enhance sentence meaning with more detail
• Connect two closely related ideas within one sentence
• Eliminate redundancy by merging information effectively

Tips for Identifying Adjective Clauses

To recognize an adjective clause, look for a set of words following and modifying a noun or pronoun. These clauses typically start with relative pronouns or adverbs. If omitting the clause significantly alters the meaning of the sentence, it is likely a restrictive clause.

Adjective clauses are essential tools in writing and speaking, allowing for more detailed and descriptive sentences. By understanding how to form and use them, you can enhance the clarity and richness of your communication.