Relative Pronouns and Clauses in English

This page provides an overview of zaimki względne angielski (relative pronouns in English) and their usage in relative clauses. It also explains the difference between defining and non-defining relative clauses.

Relative Pronouns

The guide introduces the following relative pronouns and their uses:

• Who: Used for people (który, którzy in Polish)
• Which: Used for things and animals (który, którzy for objects and animals)
• That: Used for people, animals, and things (który, którzy for all)
• When: Used for time references (kiedy?)
• Whose: Indicates possession (którego, której, których, czyj)

Example: This is the woman whose daughter plays the piano.

Defining and Non-Defining Relative Clauses

The page explains the difference between defining and non-defining relative clauses:

1. Non-Defining Relative Clauses:
   • Provide additional, non-essential information
   • Use commas to separate the clause from the main sentence

Example: The white dog, which is sitting on your sofa, is mine. Example: The man, who owns a white dog, is very nice.

2. Defining Relative Clauses:
   • Provide essential information to identify the noun
   • Do not use commas

Example: The white dog which is sitting on your sofa is mine. Example: The man who owns a white dog is very nice.

Highlight: The presence or absence of commas is crucial in distinguishing between defining and non-defining relative clauses.

Vocabulary:

• Zdania względne (Polish): Relative clauses
• Zdania definiujące (Polish): Defining clauses
• Zdania niedefiniujące (Polish): Non-defining clauses

This comprehensive overview provides students with a solid foundation for understanding and using relative clauses in English, including the correct usage of relative pronouns and the distinction between defining and non-defining clauses.