English Grammar: Adjective Clauses

Adjective clauses, also known as relative clauses, are groups of words that function as adjectives to describe or provide additional information about a noun. They often begin with relative pronouns such as “who,” “whom,” “whose,” “which,” and “that” or relative adverbs like “when,” “where,” and “why.”

Adjective clauses can modify a noun or pronoun in a sentence, adding more details to help us understand who or what is being talked about. They act as a bridge between the main clause and the noun they modify, providing crucial information that enhances our understanding of the sentence.

Let’s take a closer look at adjective clauses and their different types.

1. Types of Adjective Clauses

1. Defining Adjective Clauses Defining adjective clauses provide essential information about a noun or pronoun. They are necessary for the sentence’s meaning and cannot be removed without changing the intended message. Defining adjective clauses are not separated by commas.

   Example: The car that is parked outside belongs to my neighbor.

   In this sentence, the defining adjective clause “that is parked outside” specifies which car we are talking about.

2. Non-Defining Adjective Clauses Non-defining adjective clauses provide additional information that is not crucial to the sentence’s main meaning. They offer extra details about a noun but can be removed without altering the essential message. Non-defining adjective clauses are set off by commas.

   Example: My sister, who is a doctor, loves to travel.

   Here, the non-defining adjective clause “who is a doctor” provides additional information about the noun “my sister.”

2. How to Identify Adjective Clauses

Identifying adjective clauses is key to understanding their function in a sentence. Here are a few tips to help you recognize them:

1. Look for relative pronouns like “who,” “whom,” “whose,” “which,” and “that.”

2. Watch out for relative adverbs such as “when,” “where,” and “why.”

3. Check if the clause adds more information to a noun or pronoun.

4. Determine if the clause is essential (defining) or non-essential (non-defining) to the sentence’s main meaning.

Now that we understand the basics of adjective clauses, let’s explore some common ways they are used.

3. Usage of Adjective Clauses

1. Describing People Adjective clauses are frequently used to describe people by providing additional details about their characteristics, professions, or relationships.

   Example: The man who is sitting at the back is my father.

   The adjective clause “who is sitting at the back” describes the man and helps identify who he is.

2. Describing Things Adjective clauses are also employed to describe things or objects by offering more information about their features, qualities, or origins.

   Example: I bought a book that was written by my favorite author.

   Here, the adjective clause “that was written by my favorite author” describes the book and adds information about its origin.

3. Indicating Time Adjective clauses can be used to specify when an action takes place, providing details about the time or period.

   Example: The day when we met for the first time is unforgettable.

   In this sentence, the adjective clause “when we met for the first time” indicates the specific time and adds meaning to the statement.

4. Explaining Reasons Adjective clauses can explain the reasons behind certain actions or situations, shedding light on the cause or purpose.

   Example: She always carries an umbrella in case it rains.

   The adjective clause “in case it rains” explains the reason for carrying an umbrella.

5. Showing Possession Adjective clauses can demonstrate ownership or possession, indicating who or what something belongs to.

   Example: This is the house whose roof was damaged in the storm.

   The adjective clause “whose roof was damaged in the storm” shows possession and specifies which house is being referred to.

4. FAQs about Adjective Clauses