Relative clauses

12 important questions on Relative clauses

What are the main functions of relative clauses in noun phrase structure?

  • They act as a modifier in sentences.
  • Contain a relativised element that connects to the head noun.
  • Can show various functions:
1. Subject (e.g., who)
2. Object (e.g., which)

How do supplementary relative clauses differ from integrated relative clauses?

  • They are loosely attached and separated by punctuation or intonation.
  • The relativised element is often overt.
  • They refer to a larger unit:
1. Noun phrase (e.g., my brother)
2. Complete clause (e.g., he overslept)

What characterizes the fused relative construction?

  • It is more structurally complex than standard relative clauses.
  • Allows for combinations like:
1. Whoever wrote this
2. What books he has
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What is the nature of the relativised element in relative clauses?

  • It relates back to the head noun.
  • Can be either:
1. Overt (e.g., who, which)
2. Covert (e.g., in some forms)

In what forms can the relativised element appear in relative clauses?

- Functions may vary, for example:
  1. As a Subject (in who spoke)
  2. As an Object (in what I lent)

How can relative clauses affect sentence structure?

- They can be integrated or supplementary:
  1. Integrated clauses are tightly linked to the main sentence.
  2. Supplementary clauses provide additional information.

What is an example of a fused relative construction?

- It combines clauses without clear separation, such as:
  1. Whoever wrote this must be naive.
  2. You can invite who you like.

What distinguishes noun phrases from clauses in the context provided?

- Noun phrases do not denote entities that can be:
  1. naive
  2. invited
  3. spent
  4. located in the attic
- Clauses take different verb forms.

How do subjects with the form of clauses function grammatically?

- Subjects in clause form require:
1. 3rd person singular verbs
- This differs from plural noun phrase subjects.

What is the significance of "fused" constructions in noun phrases?

- Fused constructions combine:
  1. Head of the noun phrase
  2. Relativised element
- They are not separate elements.

How do noun phrases differ from interrogative content clauses based on examples?

- Interrogative content clauses imply:
  1. Asking for an answer
  2. Different meanings
- Example comparisons highlight these distinctions.

How does the subject-verb agreement differ in interrogative contexts?

- In interrogative contexts, the verb:
  1. Is singular
  2. Agrees with clausal subjects
- This contrasts with other noun phrase structures.

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