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Relative Clauses

Relative clauses provide additional information about nouns in a sentence.

B1Sentence Structure

Rule

A relative clause is a part of a sentence that gives more information about a noun.

    • who/which/that + verb - to describe people or things.
    • where/when/why - to give more details about places, times, or reasons.

Usage

    • We use relative clauses to describe people, things, places, times, or reasons more clearly.
    • They help connect ideas in a sentence without repeating information.
    • Relative clauses make sentences more interesting and detailed.

Examples

  • The book that is on the table is mine.
  • The city where I grew up is very beautiful.
  • The reason why I am here is to learn.
  • The woman who is smiling is my friend.
  • The house which has a garden is for sale.
  • The day when we met was unforgettable.

Common Mistakes

  • Wrong: The book that I read it. Correct: The book that I read.
  • Wrong: The city where I live there. Correct: The city where I live.
  • Wrong: The reason why I came here for. Correct: The reason why I came here.

Tip

Try replacing 'who' or 'which' with 'he' or 'it' to check if your sentence still makes sense.

Quick check
Which of the following sentences uses a relative clause correctly?

Where this matters in your exam

Relative clauses are crucial for linking ideas in Writing Task 2 and Speaking.

  • Writing Task 2

    Use relative clauses to connect ideas in your essay.