Prof. Juan José Arias and Dr.
Carlos Gelormini Lezama
Classification of clauses: a clause is a structure of predication, i.e. saying something about something. SUBJECT + PREDICATE
Clauses can be classified as:
a) Main clauses (independent, free, matrix): they can stand on their own
b) Subordinate clauses (dependent or sometimes embedded): they cannot stand on their own
They can also be classified according to the form of the verb:
a) Finite: they have a finite or conjugated verb
b) Non-finite: they do not have a finite or conjugated verb (they have a non-finite verb)
Infinitival (to break) Bare infinitival (break) –ing (breaking) -en: “past” or “passive” participle (broken)
c) Small or verbless: they don’t have a verb (I consider him intelligent)
Traditionally, clauses were/are classified as: noun clauses, relative or adjectival clauses and adverbial clauses
NOUN CLAUSES (they function as COMPLEMENTS or as SUBJECTS)
Finite Non-finite
That- Noun Clauses He said that he was tired. The complementiser that requires a finite clause.
If/Whether- Noun Clauses I asked him if he had studied. I don’t know whether to go or not. (Only with whether)
Wh- Interrogative Clauses I didn’t know who his father was. I’m wondering where to go.
Exclamative Clauses It’s incredible how fast he can run.
Nominal Relative Clauses (or Free Relative) I ate what I paid for. Here’s what to call your dog.
OTHER TYPES Learning grammar is fun; I consider him intelligent; For your country to be
neutral in this conflict is out of the question; They made her pay for the loan.
ADJECTIVAL CLAUSES (they function as ADJUNCTS in the NP ADNOMINAL ADJUNCTS OR POST-MODIFIERS)
Finite Non-finite [reduced]
Defining relative clauses (they define the I saw the man who was staring at you The person to consult is not here
noun) The place where I was born is far away The person standing in the queue is my brother
Non-defining relative clauses Cristina Kirchner, who was the first woman The substance, discovered almost by accident, has revolutionized medicine
(they give extra information) president of Argentina, was re-elected.
ADVERBIAL CLAUSES (they function as ADJUNCTS in the VP ADVERBIAL ADJUNCTS).
Finite Non-Finite
of time He died while he was going to the party Be careful when crossing the street
of place We saw the dead body where we had lived -
of manner Do it as I told you He passed the exam using a crib sheet
of concession Although he was tired, he worked hard Despite being tired, he worked hard
of reason He’s thin because he’s on a diet The weather being so good, they decided to go on holiday.
of comparison He looks as if he were dying. She winked at me as if to say that I shouldn't say anything.
of purpose The school closed so that they could rest The school closed to paint the classrooms
of condition If you see him, send him my regards If consulted, don’t say a word of it.
