Section 1
Relative Pronouns
Definition
A relative pronoun introduces a subordinate clause.
Explanation
Think of a relative pronoun as a special connecting word. It links a group of words (called a subordinate clause) to the main part of a sentence. This clause adds extra information but can't stand alone as a complete thought. It often tells you more about a noun in the sentence, like "which one?" or "who is it?".
Examples
- The student who won the science fair received a blue ribbon. [The pronoun who introduces the clause who won the science fair, which tells us more about the student.]
- This is the path that leads to the waterfall. [The pronoun that introduces the clause that leads to the waterfall, which gives more information about the path.]
- The library book, which I just finished, is due today. [The pronoun which begins the clause which I just finished, which adds details about the library book.]