This week we go over even more clauses. This week we continue our discussion on clauses.

Clauses can be categorized by whether or not they are necessary to the meaning of the noun in the sentence.  An essential clause, also called a defining clause or a restrictive clause is essential to the meaning of the noun in the sentence.

Example:  The car that I just bought in the driveway. The restrictive clause, that I just bought, distinguishes the car from any and all others.

Non-restrictive clauses are the opposite, insomuch as that they can be omitted from the sentence without changing its meaning.

The Mustang, which only has 25,000 miles on it, needs new brakes. Omitting which has only 25,000 miles on it does not change the sentence's meaning, making the clause non-restrictive.

Helpful Tip:

That vs Which.  Usually, the word that starts restrictive clauses, and the word which starts non-restrictive clauses.  Non-restrictive clauses are usually separated from the sentence by commas, while restrictive clauses are not.

 I'm going to be restrictive and not cover this Claus:

• References:
  • Kern, Jara. (2020). The Infographic Guide to Grammar. Adams Media
  • Venolia, Jan. (2001). Write Right! (4th ed.). Ten Speed Press