Relative Clauses Questions Long
In non-defining relative clauses, 'where' and 'when' are used to provide additional information about a noun or pronoun in a sentence. These relative clauses are not essential to the meaning of the sentence and can be removed without changing the overall message. Let's discuss the use of 'where' and 'when' in more detail:
1. 'Where' in non-defining relative clauses:
- 'Where' is used to refer to a place or location. It provides additional information about the noun or pronoun it modifies.
- Example: "My hometown, where I was born and raised, is a small village." In this sentence, the non-defining relative clause "where I was born and raised" provides extra information about the noun "my hometown."
- Note that a comma is used before and after the non-defining relative clause to separate it from the main sentence.
2. 'When' in non-defining relative clauses:
- 'When' is used to refer to a specific time or period. It adds more details about the noun or pronoun it describes.
- Example: "The party, when everyone was dancing and having fun, lasted until midnight." Here, the non-defining relative clause "when everyone was dancing and having fun" gives additional information about the noun "the party."
- Similarly, a comma is used before and after the non-defining relative clause to set it apart from the main sentence.
It is important to note that non-defining relative clauses are not essential to the sentence's meaning and can be removed without affecting the overall message. They are usually used to provide extra details or to add descriptive information. Additionally, non-defining relative clauses are often used in written English, particularly in formal writing, to enhance the clarity and richness of the text.
In summary, 'where' and 'when' are used in non-defining relative clauses to provide additional information about a place or time, respectively. These clauses are set apart from the main sentence by commas and can be removed without changing the essential meaning of the sentence.