Noun Clauses: Definition, Functions and Example Sentences

Noun clauses in English!!! In this lesson, we learn the definition, functions, and examples of noun clauses in English.

What is a Noun Clause?

A noun clause is a dependent clause that contains a subject and a verb. It works as a noun in a sentence. It can be the subject of a sentence, an object, or a complement. It begins with words such as how, that, what, whatever, when, where, whether, which, whichever, who, whoever, whom, whomever, and why.

Examples:

• Do you know what the weather will be?
• My hope is that everyone here becomes friends.
• I can’t tell you where he lives.
• Whatever I suggest, he always disagrees.
• I wonder why Sarah is absent.
• Choose a gift for whomever you want.
• We decided to look into how much it costs.

Functions of Noun Clauses

Noun Clauses as Subjects

• That she did not pass the exam is obvious at this point.
• What you have said makes her sad.
• Whichever you buy, there is a six-month guarantee.
• Whoever made this cake is a real artist.
• Whether we can stay in this situation is debatable.
• Whatever you want is fine with me.

Noun Clauses as Objects

Objects are words that “receive” another part of a sentence. There are three types of objects: direct objects (receive the action of the verb), indirect objects (receive direct objects), objects of prepositions (receive prepositions).

• I don’t know who he is. (direct objects)
• He had miscalculated how long the trip would take. (direct objects)
• I can do whatever I want. (direct objects)
• He cannot understand why she’s constantly carping at him. (direct objects)
• My parents are really satisfied with what I have done. (objects of prepositions)
• I’m not looking for what he likes. (objects of prepositions)
• Can you tell me when it is time for dinner? (direct objects)
• I asked about why Tom ate those hot peppers. (objects of prepositions)
• She didn’t realize that the directions were wrong. (direct objects)
• Harry is not the best provider of what Margie needs. (objects of prepositions)

Noun Clauses as Compliments

• Harry’s problem was that he couldn’t make a decision.
• He knows that I am a dentist.
• The uncertainty is whether he will attend or not.
• Linda was sad that her boyfriend betrays her.
• Jennifer seemed angry that he refused to help her.
• She believed that I was right.
• Carlie’s problem was that she didn’t practice enough.

Noun Clauses in English | Infographic

Last Updated on June 24, 2021