Relative Pronouns: Definition, Usage, and Examples

Relative pronouns are an essential part of English grammar, used to introduce relative clauses and connect them to the rest of a sentence. These pronouns not only enhance sentence structure but also provide additional information about a noun. Common relative pronouns include who, whom, whose, which, and that.

This comprehensive guide will explore relative pronouns, their rules, and how to use them effectively in sentences.

Table of Contents

1. What Are Relative Pronouns?

2. Definition of Relative Pronouns

3. Commonly Used Relative Pronouns and Their Functions

4. Examples of Relative Pronouns in Sentences

5. Special Rules for Using Relative Pronouns

6. Relative Pronouns vs. Other Pronouns

7. Test Your Knowledge of Relative Pronouns

8. Frequently Asked Questions

What Are Relative Pronouns?

Relative pronouns are words used to introduce relative clauses, providing extra information about a noun or pronoun in the sentence. They help link the main clause to a dependent clause, creating complex and informative sentences.

For example:

• The woman who lives next door is a doctor.

Here, the relative pronoun who introduces the clause “who lives next door,” which provides more information about “the woman.”

Definition of Relative Pronouns

According to the Merriam-Webster Dictionary, a relative pronoun is defined as “a pronoun that introduces a subordinate clause and refers to an antecedent.” The Cambridge Dictionary adds that relative pronouns like who, which, and that “are used to connect a clause or phrase to a noun or pronoun.”

Commonly Used Relative Pronouns and Their Functions

Each relative pronoun serves a specific purpose, depending on its usage and the context of the sentence. Below is a table summarizing their functions:

Examples of Relative Pronouns in Sentences

Defining Relative Clauses

These clauses provide essential information and are not set off by commas.

• • The girl who won the competition is my cousin.
  • The cake that you baked was delicious.

Non-Defining Relative Clauses

These clauses add extra information and are separated by commas.

• • My friend Sarah, who lives in New York, is visiting us next month.
  • The Eiffel Tower, which is in Paris, is a popular tourist attraction.

Possessive Relative Pronouns

• • The artist whose painting was stolen is very upset.

Relative Pronouns with Prepositions

• • The hotel in which we stayed was amazing.
  • The person whom I spoke to is an expert.

Special Rules for Using Relative Pronouns

1. Prepositions with Relative Pronouns

In formal writing, prepositions are often placed before relative pronouns:

• • The teacher to whom I spoke was very kind.

In informal writing, the preposition typically comes at the end:

• • The teacher I spoke to was very kind.

2. “That” vs. “Which”

• • Use “that” in defining clauses: The car that he drives is expensive.
  • Use “which” in non-defining clauses: The car, which he rarely drives, is parked outside.

3. Omitting Relative Pronouns

In informal English, relative pronouns can sometimes be omitted if they are the object of the clause:

• • The movie (that) I watched yesterday was fantastic.

4. Avoiding Ambiguity

Always ensure the antecedent is clear to avoid confusion:

• • Ambiguous: The dog chased the cat that barked loudly.
    (Is it the dog or the cat that barked?)
  • Clear: The dog, which barked loudly, chased the cat.

Relative Pronouns vs. Other Pronouns

Test Your Knowledge of Relative Pronouns

Fill in the blanks with the correct relative pronoun:

1. The girl ___________ won the race is my sister.

2. The book ___________ you gave me is amazing.

3. This is the man ___________ house we stayed in.

4. Can you tell me the reason ___________ she is upset?

5. This is the café ___________ we first met.

Answers:

1. who

2. that/which

3. whose

4. why

5. where

Frequently Asked Questions on Relative Pronouns

Q1: What is a relative pronoun?

A relative pronoun introduces a relative clause and provides additional information about a noun or pronoun.

Q2: What are some common relative pronouns?

Common relative pronouns include who, whom, whose, which, that, where, when, and why.

Q3: How do you use “that” in a sentence?

“That” is used in defining relative clauses to refer to people, animals, or things.

• • The book that I borrowed was fascinating.

Q4: Can relative pronouns be omitted?

Yes, in informal contexts, relative pronouns can be omitted when they are the object of the clause.

• • The movie (that) I watched was amazing.