Reduced Relative Clauses

Reduced relative clauses are a more concise way to convey information about a noun, allowing for smoother sentence flow. They eliminate the relative pronoun and the auxiliary verb, simplifying the structure while retaining the original meaning.

What Are Reduced Relative Clauses? Reduced relative clauses are formed by omitting the relative pronoun (who, which, that) and the verb “be” when it functions as a main verb. This results in a shorter, more streamlined version of the original clause.

Examples:

1. Full Relative Clause: The book that is on the table is mine.
   Reduced Relative Clause: The book on the table is mine.
2. Full Relative Clause: The woman who is sitting next to me is my sister.
   Reduced Relative Clause: The woman sitting next to me is my sister.
3. Full Relative Clause: The car that was parked outside has been removed.
   Reduced Relative Clause: The car parked outside has been removed.

When to Use Reduced Relative Clauses:

1. To Avoid Repetition: If the noun is clear and the context is understood, reducing the relative clause can make your writing more fluid.
2. In Formal Writing: Reduced clauses are often preferred in formal writing, as they convey information succinctly.
3. In Informal Conversation: They are commonly used in everyday speech, helping to make sentences less cumbersome.

How to Form Reduced Relative Clauses:

1. Identify the relative clause.
2. Remove the relative pronoun (who, which, that).
3. Eliminate the verb “be” (if applicable).
4. Use the present participle (verb + -ing) or past participle (verb + -ed) if necessary.

More Examples:

• Full Relative Clause: The students who are studying in the library are quiet.
  Reduced Relative Clause: The students studying in the library are quiet.
• Full Relative Clause: The cake that was made by my grandmother is delicious.
  Reduced Relative Clause: The cake made by my grandmother is delicious.

Exceptions and Considerations:

• Not all relative clauses can be reduced. For example, when the relative clause provides essential information, reducing it might alter the meaning or create ambiguity.
• If the subject of the reduced clause is different from the main clause, it’s often best to keep the relative pronoun.

Conclusion: Reduced relative clauses are a powerful tool in English grammar that can enhance clarity and conciseness. By practicing their formation and usage, you can improve your writing style and make your communication more effective.

Practice Exercise:

Transform the following sentences by reducing the relative clauses:

1. The students who are taking the exam are nervous.
2. The movie that was released last week is a hit.
3. The house which is located on the hill is for sale.

Feel free to reach out if you need more examples or explanations!

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