This is a clause that generally modifies a noun or a noun phrase and is often introduced by a relative pronoun (which, that, who, whom, whose). A relative clause connects ideas by using pronouns that relate to something previously mentioned and allows the writer to combine two independent clauses into one sentence. A relative clause is also known as an adjective clause. There are two types of relative clauses: restrictive and nonrestrictive.
Here are a few examples:
* In APA 7, per Section 4.19, use "who" or "whom" instead of "that" when referring to a human.
** Although both "which" and "that are grammatically correct in restrictive clauses, APA prefers "that" for restrictive clauses. See APA 7, Sections 4.19-4.21 for more information on this topic.
A restrictive clause restricts or defines the meaning of a noun or noun phrase and provides necessary information about the noun in the sentence. It is not separated from the rest of the sentence by commas. Restrictive clauses are more common in writing than nonrestrictive clauses. A restrictive clause is also sometimes referred to as an essential clause or phrase.
When the relative pronoun functions as the object of the sentence, it can (and usually is) omitted from the relative clause.
A nonrestrictive clause adds additional information to a sentence. It is usually a proper noun or a common noun that refers to a unique person, thing, or event. It uses commas to show that the information is additional. The commas almost act like parentheses within the sentence. If the information between the commas is omitted, readers will still understand the overall meaning of the sentence. A nonrestrictive clause is also known as a nonessential clause or phrase.
Although "that" is sometimes used in restrictive clauses, it is not allowed in nonrestrictive clauses.
A relative pronoun cannot be deleted in a nonrestrictive clause.
In academic writing, relative clauses are often reduced for a more concise style. This also creates more sentence variety. When reducing a relative clause, it is necessary to delete the relative pronoun and either delete or change the verb. Here are some examples:
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