That - Relative Pronoun
Understanding the Relative Pronoun "That" in English Grammar
The relative pronoun "that" plays a significant role in English grammar by introducing relative clauses. It is used to provide essential information about a noun or noun phrase in a sentence. This guide will explore the various aspects of "that," including its usage, differences from other relative pronouns, and common pitfalls to avoid.
Usage of "That"
"That" is used to introduce defining (restrictive) clauses, which are essential for identifying the noun they modify. Unlike non-defining clauses, defining clauses provide crucial information about the noun and are not set off by commas.
| Type of Clause | Definition | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Defining Clause | Provides essential information that helps to identify the noun in question. | The book that you lent me is excellent. |
| Non-Defining Clause | Offers additional information about the noun but is not necessary for identifying it. These clauses are separated by commas. | The book, which you lent me, is excellent. (Here, 'which' could be used instead of 'that'.) |
Defining Clauses
Defining clauses are essential to the meaning of a sentence. They specify which particular noun is being referred to. Without these clauses, the sentence might be unclear or incomplete.
Examples:
- The house that Jack built is still standing. (The clause 'that Jack built' defines which house is being referred to.)
- The car that broke down was very old. (The clause 'that broke down' identifies which car is meant.)
Comparison with Other Relative Pronouns
"That" is often compared with other relative pronouns such as "which" and "who." Understanding the differences can help in choosing the right pronoun for different contexts:
| Relative Pronoun | Usage | Example |
|---|---|---|
| That | Used in defining clauses to refer to things, animals, and sometimes people. Cannot be used in non-defining clauses. | The book that is on the table is mine. |
| Which | Used in non-defining clauses to provide extra information about things and animals. It can be used in defining clauses but is less common. | The book, which is on the table, is mine. |
| Who | Used to refer to people in both defining and non-defining clauses. | The teacher who helped me is here. |
| Whom | Used to refer to people in formal contexts, typically in non-defining clauses. | The student to whom I spoke was very polite. |
Common Errors with "That"
Using "that" incorrectly can lead to grammatical mistakes. Here are some common errors to avoid:
1. Using "That" in Non-Defining Clauses
Unlike "which," "that" should not be used in non-defining clauses. Non-defining clauses are set off by commas and provide extra information about the noun. For example:
- Incorrect: The car, that is red, is parked outside.
- Correct: The car, which is red, is parked outside.
2. Overusing "That"
Sometimes, "that" is used unnecessarily, which can make sentences cumbersome. For instance:
- Unnecessary: The book that I bought it yesterday is on the shelf.
- Correct: The book I bought yesterday is on the shelf.
Conclusion
Mastering the use of "that" in defining clauses enhances clarity and precision in writing. By understanding when to use "that" versus other relative pronouns and avoiding common errors, you can effectively communicate detailed and accurate information in your sentences.