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.
The relative pronoun "that" is used when the information provided by the relative clause is essential to the meaning of the sentence. It is not set off by commas. For example, "I borrowed the book that you recommended." Here, the clause "that you recommended" is crucial to understanding which book is being referred to.
On the other hand, the relative pronoun "which" is used when the information provided by the relative clause is not necessary for the main idea of the sentence. It is set off by commas. For instance, "I bought a new dress, which is blue." Here, the clause "which is blue" provides additional information about the dress which is not essential to the main point.
The difference between the two types of relative clauses lies in their importance to the overall meaning of the sentence. "That" introduces an essential clause that is integral to the sentence's meaning, while "which" introduces a nonessential clause that adds extra information but does not significantly change the sentence's meaning if removed.