Non-restrictive Relative Clauses allow you to add non-essential information to a sentence, enhancing detail without changing the main meaning. This lesson will guide you in recognizing and using non-restrictive clauses effectively.
Examples
Example 1
My car, which I bought last year, is already having problems.
The clause "which I bought last year" adds extra information about the car without altering the main point.
Example 2
Our professor, who has written several books, is an expert in medieval history.
The clause "who has written several books" provides additional information about the professor.
How It Works
Meaning
Non-restrictive relative clauses add extra information to a sentence without altering its core meaning. They are typically set off by commas and provide additional details about a noun.
These clauses use relative pronouns like who, which, or whose and are crucial at the B2 level for enhancing writing sophistication.
Use it when
- Adding non-essential information about a noun.
- Writing formal or academic texts where detail is important.
- Clarifying a point without changing the main message.
- Enhancing narrative or descriptive writing.
See it
Quick rules
- Use commas to set off non-restrictive clauses.
- Do not use "that" in non-restrictive clauses.
- Ensure the clause can be removed without changing the sentence's main meaning.
- Use "which" for things and "who" for people.
Common Mistakes
Common problem 1
Missing commas in non-restrictive clauses
WeakMy sister who lives in London is visiting.
StrongMy sister, who lives in London, is visiting.
Fix: Use commas to set off the non-restrictive clause.
Common problem 2
Using "that" instead of "which"
WeakThe book that I borrowed from you is fascinating.
StrongThe book, which I borrowed from you, is fascinating.
Fix: Use "which" for non-restrictive clauses.
Common problem 3
Confusing restrictive with non-restrictive clauses
WeakThe team who won the championship celebrated all night.
StrongThe team, who won the championship, celebrated all night.
Fix: Use commas to indicate non-essential information.
Practice Lab
Practice
Recognize and correctly use non-restrictive relative clauses in sentences.
Score: 0/3
Focus on identifying non-essential information and using commas correctly.
1. Quick pick
Choose the sentence with a non-restrictive clause.
2. Build it
Put this sentence with a non-restrictive clause in the correct order.
Tap a chunk to move it down. Tap it again to send it back.
3. Final sort
Mark each sentence as correct or needing a fix.
The Eiffel Tower, which is in Paris, attracts millions of tourists each year.
The Eiffel Tower which is in Paris attracts millions of tourists each year.
Why It Matters
🎯 Why it matters: Mastering non-restrictive relative clauses enhances your writing by allowing you to add nuanced details without cluttering the main message. This skill is vital for clear, sophisticated communication at a B2 level and beyond.
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