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. (2 points)
The relative pronoun "that" is used with an essential clause, which is a clause that is necessary for the sentence's meaning. It provides essential information. On the other hand, the relative pronoun "which" is used with a nonessential clause, which provides additional information that is not required for understanding the sentence.
To determine which pronoun to use, consider whether the clause is essential or nonessential. If the clause can be removed without changing the essential meaning of the sentence, use "which" with commas. If the clause is essential to understanding the sentence, use "that" without commas.
For example, in the sentence "The book that I borrowed from the library is overdue," the essential clause "that I borrowed from the library" is necessary to identify which book is being discussed. In contrast, in the sentence "The book, which I borrowed from the library, is overdue," the nonessential clause "which I borrowed from the library" provides additional information but can be removed without changing the main idea of the sentence.
The relative pronouns "that" and "which" are used differently based on whether the clause they introduce is essential or nonessential to the sentence.
"That" is used with essential clauses, which provide necessary information to the sentence and cannot be removed without changing the intended meaning. For example, "The car that is parked outside is mine." Here, the relative clause "that is parked outside" is essential because it specifies which car is being referred to.
On the other hand, "which" is used with nonessential clauses, which provide additional, but not essential, information to the sentence. These clauses can be removed without altering the primary meaning. For example, "My car, which is red, is parked outside." Here, the nonessential clause "which is red" adds additional information about the car's color.
In summary, use "that" with essential clauses that are necessary for the sentence's meaning, while "which" is used with nonessential clauses that provide extra but not required information.