A nonrestrictive relative clause provides additional information about a noun that is already clear and identifiable. It is set off by commas and does not change the essential meaning of the sentence.
Think of it like adding a fun fact to a person's name. You already know who the person is, but the extra information adds something interesting. For example, "My friend, who loves to travel, is visiting next week." You know who the friend is, and the fact about them loving to travel is just an extra detail.
Examples:
- My dog, who is a golden retriever, loves to play fetch. (The clause "who is a golden retriever" is nonrestrictive because we already know which dog is being discussed.)
- The restaurant, which is located downtown, serves delicious Italian food. (The location of the restaurant is extra information, not essential to understanding which restaurant is being discussed.)
- My sister, who lives in New York, is coming to visit me. (The fact that she lives in New York is additional information about her, not essential to knowing who she is.)
How to Identify a Nonrestrictive Relative Clause:
- Commas: Nonrestrictive clauses are always set off by commas.
- Essential Information: The sentence should still make sense without the clause.
- Pronoun: The clause will typically start with a relative pronoun like who, whom, whose, which, or that.
Key Differences Between Restrictive and Nonrestrictive Clauses:
| Feature | Restrictive Clause | Nonrestrictive Clause |
|---|---|---|
| Commas | No commas | Commas |
| Essential Information | Essential to understanding the sentence | Additional information |
| Meaning | Changes the meaning of the sentence | Does not change the meaning |
Practical Insights:
- Understanding the difference between restrictive and nonrestrictive clauses is crucial for clear and effective writing.
- Using nonrestrictive clauses correctly can add depth and interest to your writing.
