Noun clauses
A noun clause functions just like a single-word noun, usually as a subject, subject complement, direct object, or object of a preposition.
It usually begins with one of the following words:
|
how |
whom |
where |
|
that |
whomever |
whether |
|
which |
what |
whose |
|
who |
whatever |
why |
|
whoever |
when |
The noun clause Whoever leaves the house last functions as the subject of the sentence. Whoever is the subject of the clause.
The noun clause that the sun is the center of the universe functions as the direct object of the verb argued.
The word introducing a noun clause may or may not play a significant role in the clause. In the preceding example sentences, Whoever is the subject of its clause, but that does not perform a function in its clause.
Order of elements in noun clauses
As with adjective clauses, the parts of a noun clause may appear out of their normal order (subject/verb/object).
The parts of a noun clause may also appear in their normal order.
Words that introduce subordinate clauses
Exercises:
Subordinate clauses 1
Subordinate clauses 2
Subjects of subordinate clauses
Phrases and clauses