Noun Clauses helps you communicate about reporting ideas, unknown information and embedded propositions. Start with the meaning, notice the pattern, and then use it in complete sentences.
By the end of this lesson, you can
- I can use clauses as subjects, objects and complements.
- Recognise and build the form: that-clause; wh-clause; whether/if-clause.
- Use the pattern accurately in a meaningful sentence.
Meaning and use
Use Noun Clauses for reporting ideas, unknown information and embedded propositions. Always read the whole situation before choosing the form: grammar expresses a meaning, not only a pattern.
I believe that the plan will work.
A that-clause can function as the object of 'believe'.
We don't know when the train will arrive.
Use a wh-clause to express unknown time information.
What she said surprised everyone.
'What she said' is a fused relative noun clause meaning 'the thing she said'.
that-clause; wh-clause; whether/if-clauseKeep this pattern visible while you study the examples. Then cover it and rebuild one example from memory.
Key rules to notice
These rules explain why the form is correct. Focus on the subject, auxiliary, verb form, word order and time or meaning clues.
- A that-clause can function as the object of 'believe'.
- Use a wh-clause to express unknown time information.
- 'What she said' is a fused relative noun clause meaning 'the thing she said'.
- Use 'whether' for an embedded yes/no alternative after 'is'.
- Use a wh-clause with statement word order after 'explain'.
Common mistakes
Not:I believe what the plan will work.
Use:I believe that the plan will work.
A that-clause can function as the object of 'believe'.
Not:We don't know that the train will arrive.
Use:We don't know when the train will arrive.
Use a wh-clause to express unknown time information.
Not:That she said surprised everyone.
Use:What she said surprised everyone.
'What she said' is a fused relative noun clause meaning 'the thing she said'.
Check before you practise
Complete each sentence mentally, then reveal the answer.
The question is ____ we can afford it.
whether
Use 'whether' for an embedded yes/no alternative after 'is'.
Can you explain ____ this machine works?
how
Use a wh-clause with statement word order after 'explain'.
It is obvious ____ more research is needed.
that
A that-clause can complete an anticipatory 'It is obvious...' structure.