Which vs. That
Restrictive Clause: parts of sentences that cannot be removed because it specifically restricts another part of the sentence.
- Example: Cars that clunk are noisy.
- You must use that because it restricts the kind of cars you are talking about.
- Example: Table cloths that have a checkered patter give me a headache.
- You must use that becuase it specifically describes the type of tablecloth.
Nonrestrictive Clause: parts of sentences that can be removed without changing the meaning of the sentence.
- Example: Rubies, which are usually red, are my favorite gem.
- You would use which because you can take out the "which are usually red" part and still have the same meaning of the sentence.
- Example: The kids organized a magic show, which was a good distraction on the rainy day.
- You would use which because the sentence still has its original meaning without the description of the rainy day distraction.
Punctuation:
-Remember...
- Nonrestrictive clauses are usually surrounded by/ preceded by...
- COMMAS!
- Example: The book, which smelled of mothballs, was found in Grandma's attic.
- Example: The rain canceled the game, which allowed me to watch my favorite soap operas.
Restrictive Clause: parts of sentences that cannot be removed because it specifically restricts another part of the sentence.
- Example: Cars that clunk are noisy.
- You must use that because it restricts the kind of cars you are talking about.
- Example: Table cloths that have a checkered patter give me a headache.
- You must use that becuase it specifically describes the type of tablecloth.
Nonrestrictive Clause: parts of sentences that can be removed without changing the meaning of the sentence.
- Example: Rubies, which are usually red, are my favorite gem.
- You would use which because you can take out the "which are usually red" part and still have the same meaning of the sentence.
- Example: The kids organized a magic show, which was a good distraction on the rainy day.
- You would use which because the sentence still has its original meaning without the description of the rainy day distraction.
Punctuation:
-Remember...
- Nonrestrictive clauses are usually surrounded by/ preceded by...
- COMMAS!
- Example: The book, which smelled of mothballs, was found in Grandma's attic.
- Example: The rain canceled the game, which allowed me to watch my favorite soap operas.