Lecture 33 Relative Clause

A relative clause is a clause that is introduced by a relative word --either by a relative pronoun or by a relative determiner or by a relative adverb.

33.1 Restrictive and non-restricitive relative clauses 1) Restrictive relative clauses A restrictive clause is closely related to the head. It is not separated brom the head by a break in intonation, or by a comma in writing.

2) Non-restrictive relative clauses It is not closely connected with the head. It is generally separated from the head by a clear break in speech or by a comma in writing.

33.2 Choice of relative words Watch closely the following examples: He is the man who lives next door to us.

Where is the man I saw this morning?

These are the boys I went to school with.

2) Some other problems of usage concerning choice of relative pronouns in restrictive clauses

Watch closely the following examples: He still talks like the man (that ) he was ten years ago.

There were some students at the party whom I must shun.

He talked brilliantly about the man and the books that interested him.

All that live must die.

Any boy that wants to succeed must work hard.

Newton was one of the greatest men that ever lived.

3) Choice of relative pronouns in non-restrictive clauses As has been pointed out, non restrictive relative clauses are normally introduced by wh words. The antecedent of which may be a clause or part of a clause.

4) Ellipsis of relative words When a relative pronoun is used as object in the clause, it can be omitted, especially in informal style.

There are also cases where the subject of the relative clause is generally omitted irrespective of formal or informal style

He asks for the latest book there is on the subject.

I shall never forget the day we first met. The reason he came so early is his own affair.

The factory he worked in has been reorganized.

That’s the place he stayed when he was in London.

The way you answered the questions was admirable.