relative clause

noun

1
: an adjective clause introduced by a relative pronoun expressed or suppressed, relative adjective, or relative adverb and having either a purely descriptive force (as in John, who often tells fibs) or a limiting one (as in boys who tell fibs)
2
: a substantive clause introduced by an indefinite relative (as in he belittles whatever his sister tries to do)

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Cite this Entry

“Relative clause.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/relative%20clause. Accessed 31 Oct. 2024.

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