Question

I need to tell if these sentences are Nonessential or Essential adjective clauses.

1.May gave the key to her mother who opened the door.....I have nonessential and placed comma after mother.

2.A man who lived in this town sailed his little boat across the Atlantic....I have nonessential and put commas after man and town.
Thank you for your help.

Answer 1

You are correct for the first sentence. The "who" clause is nonessential because "her mother" is already a clearly identified person as the antecedent.

The second sentence, though, is the opposite. Without the "who" clause, it could be referring to any man. The "who" clause is NEEDED (essential) to clearly identify the person who is the antecedent. Therefore, no commas are needed.

Answer 2

Thank you very much. I'm on my way to school. Have a good day.

Answer 3

You're very welcome!