When it comes to writing clear and precise sentences, understanding the difference between “which” and “that” is crucial. Both words are used to introduce clauses that provide more information about a noun, but they serve different purposes and are not interchangeable. Let’s delve into the specific roles of “which” and “that” to ensure your writing is both grammatically correct and easily understood.
Understanding Restrictive and Non-restrictive Clauses
The key to using “which” and “that” correctly lies in the type of clause they introduce: restrictive (or defining) clauses and non-restrictive (or non-defining) clauses.
What is a Restrictive Clause?
A restrictive clause, also known as a defining clause, provides crucial information about the noun it follows. This information is essential because it defines or restricts the noun to a specific subset. Without this clause, the sentence would be incomplete or its meaning would be altered.
“That” for Restrictive Clauses
“That” introduces a restrictive clause, which provides essential information about the noun it follows. This information is critical to the meaning of the sentence, and without it, the sentence would be incomplete or its meaning altered.
Example:
“The book that you gave me was fascinating.”
In this example, “that you gave me” specifies which book is being referred to. Without this clause, it would be unclear which book is being discussed. The clause is essential to the meaning of the sentence, making it restrictive.
What is a Non-restrictive Clause?
A non-restrictive clause, also known as a non-defining clause, adds supplementary information about a noun. This information is not critical to the basic meaning of the sentence. If the non-restrictive clause were removed, the sentence would still be complete and retain its core meaning.
“Which” for Non-restrictive Clauses
“Which” introduces a non-restrictive clause, which adds extra information about the noun. This information can be omitted without changing the fundamental meaning of the sentence.
Example:
“The book, which you gave me, was fascinating.” Here, “which you gave me” provides additional information about the book. Even if this clause is removed, the main point (“The book was fascinating”) remains clear. The clause is non-essential and merely adds extra detail.
Difference Between “Which” and “That”
That
Which
Clause Type
Restrictive (Defining)
Non-restrictive (Non-defining)
Purpose
Provides essential information about the noun
Adds extra, non-essential information about the noun
Punctuation
No commas
Commas are used to set off the clause
Example Sentence
“The book that you gave me was fascinating.”
“The book, which you gave me, was fascinating.”
Clause Removal Impact
Changes or loses the meaning of the sentence
Sentence remains clear and retains its main meaning
Use Case
Identifies a specific subset of a noun
Provides additional details about the noun
Mastering the use of “which” and “that” enhances your writing by making it more precise and easier to understand. Remember:
Use “that” for restrictive clauses to provide essential information.
Use “which” for non-restrictive clauses to add extra, non-essential information, and set these clauses off with commas.
