Relative pronouns are words that introduce relative clauses and refer back to a noun or pronoun mentioned earlier in the sentence. They help to connect clauses or phrases to a noun or pronoun in order to provide more information about that noun or pronoun. Below are the main types of relative pronouns, their definitions, and examples for each:
1. Who
Definition: Refers to people and is used as the subject of a relative clause. Example: The teacher who gave us homework is very nice.
2. Whom
Definition: Refers to people and is used as the object of a relative clause. It is less commonly used in everyday speech, often replaced by "who." Example: The man whom you saw at the café is my brother.
3. Whose
Definition: Indicates possession and is used for both people and things. Example: The artist whose paintings are on display is very famous.
4. Which
Definition: Refers to animals and objects; it can be used for non-defining relative clauses that provide additional information but are not essential to the meaning of the sentence. Example: The book, which I borrowed from the library, was fascinating.
5. That
Definition: Refers to people, animals, and things; it is often used in defining relative clauses that specify which noun is being referred to and is essential to the meaning of the sentence. Example: The car that she drives is very fast.
6. Where
Definition: Refers to places. Example: This is the park where we used to play.
7. When
Definition: Refers to time. Example: I remember the day when we first met.
8. Why
Definition: Refers to reason and is often used with "the reason." Example: This is the reason why I decided to move.
Summary
In summary, relative pronouns help create relative clauses that add detail about a noun or pronoun, enhancing the clarity and richness of the information in a sentence. Each type serves a specific function in terms of referring to people, things, places, and time.