Defining and Non-defining Clauses (Description of People)

Defining Clauses

In defining relative clauses, the information given is needed to understand the sentence.

Examples:

They helped a boy who was hit by a car.
I prefer cars which are produced by Malaysian companies.

In the first example, the defining clause beginning with 'who' tells us which boy we are talking about. In the second example, the defining clause beginning with 'which' defines what kind of cars I prefer. These clauses make it clear on the person or thing we are speaking about.

Non-Defining Clauses
In non-defining relative clauses, the information does not contribute to the understanding of the sentence, but provides additional information.

More Examples:

Mr.Hafiz, who was the champion in the Akademi Fantasia reality show last year, has been invited to join our club.
The LIMA Langkawi, which is held bi-annually is an important event in our country.

In the first example, Mr Hafiz is defined (the man who has been invited to join our club). The fact that he was the champion in the Akademi Fantasia reality show last year gives us additional, but not necessary information. In the second example, the particular event is named and therefore defined, the frequency the event is held is additional information.

Accurate usage of punctuations is very important in non-defining clauses. A comma is placed before the relative pronoun and at the end of the clause.

Now, try to do the exercises by clicking on the link on the right panel to enhance your understanding on defining and non-defining clauses or here.