To understand when to use the relative pronouns "that" and "which" and the difference between the two types of relative clauses, it is important to know the distinction between essential and nonessential clauses. what is the answer
The distinction between essential and nonessential clauses can help us determine when to use the relative pronouns "that" and "which".
1. Essential (or restrictive) clauses: These types of clauses provide essential information to the meaning of the sentence. They are not separated by commas and cannot be omitted without changing the meaning of the sentence. In essential clauses, "that" is used as the relative pronoun.
Example: The book that I borrowed from the library is overdue.
In this sentence, the essential clause "that I borrowed from the library" is crucial to identify which book is being referred to.
2. Nonessential (or non-restrictive) clauses: These types of clauses provide additional, non-essential information that can be left out without altering the meaning of the sentence. They are separated by commas. In nonessential clauses, "which" is used as the relative pronoun.
Example: The book, which I borrowed from the library, is overdue.
In this sentence, the nonessential clause "which I borrowed from the library" adds extra information but can be removed without affecting the basic meaning of the sentence, i.e., that the book is overdue.
In summary, "that" is used in essential clauses, while "which" is used in nonessential clauses.