The relative pronoun that is used with an essential clause, which is necessary to the meaning of the sentence. It introduces information that is crucial for the understanding of the sentence and cannot be omitted without changing the meaning. For example, in the sentence "The book that he bought is really interesting," the clause "that he bought" is essential to identify which book is being referred to.
On the other hand, the relative pronoun which is used with a nonessential clause, which provides additional information that is not necessary for the understanding of the sentence. It introduces information that can be removed without altering the meaning of the sentence. For example, in the sentence "The book, which he bought last week, is really interesting," the clause "which he bought last week" is not essential to identify the book, but rather gives additional information about when it was bought.
The main difference between the two types of relative clauses is their necessity for the understanding of the sentence. Essential clauses are crucial and cannot be omitted, whereas nonessential clauses provide extra information but are not essential to the sentence's meaning.
The relative pronoun that is used with an essential clause, and the
relative pronoun which is used with a nonessential clause. In 3–5
sentences, explain when to use each pronoun and the difference
between the two types of relative clauses.
1 answer