Relative clause – proposition relative
Let's Define It!
What's a *relative clause*?
First, a relative clause is a subordinate clause. By this, I simply mean that wherever you will find a relative clause, you are certain to also find a main clause (proposition principal).
Next, a relative clause contains a relative pronoun. It is this relative pronoun that connects the relative clause to its main clause.
The relative clause provides information about a preceding noun called antecedent. The 5 French relative pronouns are qui, que, lequel, dont and où. They are equivalent to the following 7 English words: that, when, where, which, who, whom, and whose.
Le prof qui enseigne les maths est Anglais. / The teacher who teaches math is an Englishman.
(The underlined portion represents the relative clause and qui is the relative pronoun connecting it to the main clause "Le prof est anglais." The preceding noun (antecedent) is le prof)
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Let's Pronounce It!
What does it sound like in French?
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Let's Have an Example or Two!
Can a little reinforcement do the trick?
Here are some French sentences containing relative clauses.
Je ne connais pas la ville où vous habitez. I don't know the town where you live.
Elle a peur du chien qui aboit. She is afraid of the dog that is barking.
Nous boirons le vin que vous avez apporté. We will drink the wine you brought.
Connais-tu la voiture dont Rémi parle? Do you know the car about whom Remi is talking?
Voici le tiroir dans lequel j'ai mis ton stylo. Here is the drawer in which I placed your pen.
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