A relative clause, in grammar, is a type of subordinate clause that provides additional information about a noun or pronoun in the main clause of a sentence. It functions as an adjective by modifying or describing the noun or pronoun it is referring to. Relative clauses are introduced by relative pronouns (e.g., who, whom, whose, that, which) or relative adverbs (e.g., where, when, why).
These clauses are called "relative" because they relate or refer back to a noun or pronoun in the main clause, known as the antecedent. The relative pronoun or adverb connects the clause to the antecedent and determines its syntactic role within the relative clause.
Relative clauses typically provide additional information that helps to identify or describe the noun or pronoun in more detail. They can specify characteristics, qualities, or attributes, or they can provide essential information that is necessary for the sentence's meaning. Relative clauses can also indicate possession or show time, place, or reason.
Relative clauses can be essential, also known as restrictive, or nonessential, also known as nonrestrictive. Essential relative clauses are necessary for understanding the sentence's meaning and are not set off by commas. Nonessential relative clauses, on the other hand, provide additional, nonessential information and are separated from the main clause by commas or parentheses.
Overall, relative clauses are crucial for adding depth and specificity to sentences, enhancing the reader's understanding of the subject matter.
